Firefighter's Job-Related Stress Assessment in Operation Department of Fire Stations

Abstract

Background: Increasing job-related stresses among firefighters not only affect the incentive of work but also cause a reduction in productivity. Objectives: This study was conducted to investigate job-related stress situations among firefighters and its related factors. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 184 employees of operation department of fire stations of Rasht in April and May 2015. Health and Safety Executive tool was used to assess stress score among participants. Results: Of total, 141 subjects were participated in the study (response rate= 77%). The prevalence of moderate and high job-related stress among firefighters was 2.1%, which have been experienced severe stress and need rapid intervention. the prevalence of low stress that need to improve their stress situation was 88.7% (125 firefighters). 13 firefighters (9.2%) had no stress and were on ideal conditions and this situation should be maintained. Conclusion: Firefighters have great responsibility in saving people lives, thus periodic reviews on firefighters is essential to determine the level of stress and its early identification and prevention. Training of firefighters on ways of coping and empowerment can be effective in promoting their health and improving rescue services.