Citation

Phelps SM, Drew-Nord DC, Neitzel RL, Wallhagen MI, Bates MN, Hong OS. Workplace Health Saf. 2018; 66(6): 291-301.

Affiliation

University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Publisher SAGE Publications)

DOI

10.1177/2165079917740595

PMID

29251258

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess occupational injury characteristics and predictors among career firefighters. A total of 249 firefighters from central Texas and northern California participated in this Internet-based survey. Approximately 27% of firefighters had reported an occupational injury within the previous 12 months. The majority of injuries occurred on the scene of a non-fire call while performing an activity that required lifting, pushing, or pulling. Firefighters' backs were most frequently injured. Of the reported injuries, approximately 18% returned to work on modified duty, but 46% were not allowed to work due to their occupational injuries. Firefighters who reported occupational injuries were more likely to be older and experiencing occupational stress compared with their coworkers who did not report occupational injuries. Injured firefighters were also more likely to report fewer job rewards (money/salary), overcommitment, less esteem (respect and support), and fewer promotional prospects. These injury factors should be incorporated into interventions to reduce or prevent workplace injuries.

Language: en

Keywords

firefighters; occupational injuries; occupational stress; risk factors for injury; work-related injury