An innovative program aiming to reduce musculoskeletal injuries has been recognised for its enduring safety benefits.
11 Squadron's Poseidon Fit initiative was formally acknowledged with an appreciation award in the Group Initiative section of the recently announced 2025 Air Force Safety Awards.
Commanding Officer 11 Squadron Wing Commander Melissa Houston said she was proud of the tangible safety benefits Poseidon Fit was delivering to personnel.
"The program commenced in 2022, with the aim to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal injury, particularly those related to P-8A sonobuoy loading," Wing Commander Houston said.
"This resulted in the appointment of a high-performance facility strength and conditioning coach who specifically designed awareness, physical training and strength-based conditioning programs."
Wing Commander Houston said the program has been highly successful in preparing members for the rigours of their tasks and reducing workplace injuries.
"There have also been several secondary positive effects on the squadron as the education and fitness classes have directly led to increased readiness rates for 11 Squadron personnel through improvements in nutrition education, individually tailored coaching sessions and personalised rehab programs," she said.
The program included the transformation of a section of the 11 Squadron armament storage facility into what is now the Poseidon Fit High Performance Centre.
In the years since its introduction, the Poseidon Fit program has expanded to include rehabilitation, mobility, strength and conditioning, heat training, nutrition, and 'Strong Mums' sessions, which assist female members returning from maternity leave.
"Due to popularity and demand, the programs and facilities are now open to members from other Edinburgh-based SRG [Surveillance and Response Group] units," Wing Commander Houston said.
In October, Air Force recognised its commitment to creating safe and healthy workplaces for all Air Force personnel as part of Air Force Safety Month.
This year, Air Force adopted the theme 'War fighter mindset' as a continuation of its focus on human performance and risk, striving to develop high-performance teams that are 'fit for life' and 'fit for fight'.
