Safety Culture

Technical Bulletin Last updated 04/23/2009
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The research problem was the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute had taken significant actions to address the technical aspects of reducing the risks of firefighter injuries and deaths; however, there had never been an assessment of the safety culture within Maryland's Fire and Rescue Services, a component believed to have a significant impact on firefighter safety. The purpose was to reduce the risk of injuries and death to firefighters.Research questions included: (a) what questions should be used in a survey designed to provide a reliable and valid assessment of Safety Culture within Maryland's Fire and Rescue Services; (b) what variables, if any, are identified that suggest differences amongst the safety culture throughout Maryland; and (c) given this analysis, what can be done to enhance the safety culture within Maryland's Fire and Rescue Services; and how can the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute assist in any improvement plan? Descriptive research methods included surveys that were made available to all fire department members throughout the State of Maryland. Results indicated the majority of survey questions suggest a positive safety culture exists; however, 22 questions were considerably less than the mean score and should be addressed.The areas where these scores occurred included: (a) wellness/fitness, (b) vehicle safety, (c) measuring and reviewing performance, (d) policy/organizing, and (e) planning and implementation. Recommendations included the establishment of a state-wide health and safety workgroup with sub-workgroups specifically designed to improve wellness and fitness, vehicle safety, and training. A variety of ways were identified where the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute can assist in improvement plans including the facilitation of workgroup sessions as well as enhancing training programs.

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