Dr. John Mayer of the School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences along with Tampa Fire Rescue  have launched a $1.3M Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) back injury prevention study to assess the effectiveness of a worksite exercise regimen targeted to reduce the risk of low back injury and disability in firefighters — a physically demanding occupation particularly prone to back problems that can lead to chronic pain and early retirement.  The 13-month trial begins with Tampa Fire Rescue and will expand to fire departments in St. Petersburg and Hillsborough County.   It marks the third and most comprehensive project of ongoing FEMA-funded research by Dr. Mayer, Lincoln College Endowed Chair of Biomechanical and Chiropractic Research.