Occupational Safety and Health Assessment of the Meritorious Fire Department of the city of Ibarra

Risk analysis and improvement proposals.

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the state of occupational safety and health at the Ibarra Fire Department and to identify the main workplace hazards. The problem stems from the constant exposure of operational personnel to physical, ergonomic, chemical, and psychosocial factors arising from their emergency and rescue activities. The research employed a mixed-methods, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach, applying the NOSACQ-50 questionnaire to 160 participants and the IPER-C matrix for technical risk analysis. The results showed that 58% of the hazards were classified as Level I (unacceptable), 29% as Level II (acceptable with specific controls), and only 13% as tolerable. Exposure to heat, noise, working at heights, and manual handling of loads were identified as the most critical hazards. The questionnaire yielded an overall average of 3.6 points, indicating a medium level of perceived safety. Furthermore, the non-parametric Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests confirmed no significant differences in perceived safety based on gender or age group. It was determined that the institution maintains a solid structure but needs to strengthen the application of engineering controls, as well as training programs and psychosocial support, thereby reducing exposure to the most critical risks.