Evaluation of the Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment During Vehicle Rescue Operations Conducted by the Riobamba Fire Department

Abstract

This article qualitatively analyzes the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in vehicular rescue operations carried out by the Riobamba Fire Department, considering human, organizational, and technical factors that influence its application. Based on a review of recent literature and a contrast with the local operational reality, recurring issues were identified, such as the perception of PPE as an obstacle during emergencies, deficiencies in ergonomics and maintenance, and the influence of situational and cultural pressures on protocol noncompliance. Furthermore, it was evidenced that institutional leadership and organizational culture are critical variables that either promote or hinder adherence to equipment use. In contexts of budgetary constraints, the lack of adequate equipment provision and ongoing training programs exacerbate the gaps between written regulations and actual practice. The results show that although firefighters recognize the importance of PPE, its effective use depends on the interaction between structural factors (resources, design, ergonomics), subjective factors (risk perception, peer pressure), and organizational factors (leadership, supervision, safety culture). It is concluded that ensuring rescuers’ safety requires comprehensive strategies that include improving PPE design and maintenance, strengthening transformational leadership, promoting continuous training, and raising awareness among both personnel and the community. These findings contribute to the academic and practical debate on the need to modernize protection systems in first-response organizations in intermediate cities of Latin America.