Incidence Of Stress In The Work Schedule Of The Riobamba Fire Department

Proposal Of Adequate Rest Times

Abstract

The present study addressed the phenomenon of occupational stress in the Riobamba Fire Department, exploring its physiological, psychological, and organizational effects within the professional dynamics of firefighters. The study begins with a conceptual review of stress, emphasizing its complex nature and the difficulty of its theoretical delimitation due to symptomatic overlap with other conditions present. The study also examines the current regulations that concerns fire departments, which establish a minimum of 24 hours on call without clear limits that ensure adequate rest periods within shifts. This reveals variability in shift distribution, depending on the number of personnel available in every single fire station. The most commonly used models include 24 or 48 hours shifts with rest periods of 24, 48, or 96 hours, with the most frequent arrangement being 24 hours shifts followed by 48 hours of rest. The research follows a direct deductive and qualitative method, enabling a thorough analysis of the issue. The study concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at optimizing firefighters' working conditions, prioritizing the implementation of periodic psychological evaluations, adopting different measures to prevent chronic stress, and restructuring work schedules to ensure greater fairness among personnel. Ultimately, this work represents a significant contribution to understanding the impact of occupational stress on the firefighters, highlighting the urgent need for structural reform in the management of their schedules and their working conditions. These changes are essential to guaranteeing an efficient performance while safeguarding the well-being of those who dedicate themselves to emergency response and public safety