Evaluation of the Operational Safety of the Riobamba Fire Department Personnel within the Framework of NFPA 1500 Standards.

Abstract

Operational safety within fire departments is a critical component for ensuring the protection of personnel exposed to high-risk situations. This study aimed to assess the level of implementation of the NFPA 1500 standard in the Riobamba Fire Department, identifying key gaps in its application and proposing strategies for improvement. A systematic review of scientific literature published between 2019 and 2024 was conducted using reputable academic databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The review included national and international case studies that allowed for a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of NFPA 1500 across different contexts. Additionally, statistical data on workplace accidents, operational training programs, and equipment availability in Ecuadorian fire departments were examined. The findings revealed significant deficiencies in the provision of personal protective equipment, limited access to ongoing training programs, and low integration of emerging technologies. In countries with strict enforcement of NFPA 1500, operational incidents have decreased by over 30%. Conversely, in Ecuador, poor compliance with these standards remains a major risk factor. The study concludes that there is a pressing need to strengthen technical training, enhance operational infrastructure, and ensure the availability of adequate resources. Furthermore, it recommends fostering strategic partnerships with international organizations and adopting innovative technological solutions to achieve substantial improvements in the operational safety of the Riobamba Fire Department.