Fire fighters’ psychosocial risks and physical fitness: Evidence-based study from Estonia

Abstract

Current study explores important aspects of mental and physical health of fire fighters in Estonia. It is well known that high work performance requires good physical and mental health among fire fighters. However, there is a steady increase of the Body Mass Index (BMI) of rescue workers, which may be a result of little physical activity, poor or irregular diet, exhaustive shift work and sleep disturbances, emotionally difficult work or other psychosocial factors. These aspects were studied by a quantitative and qualitative research. As a result, a model for developing a culture that promotes workers’ physical and mental health was developed. The findings have implications for health and safety management and health promotion in order to find more solutions for future activities to support and ensure the high work performance of fire fighters.