A Web-Based Total Worker Health Intervention for Those Fighting Wildland Fires: Mixed Methods Development and...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• Wildland Fire Management

Background:

• Wildfire seasons are intensifying, increasing risks for wildland firefighters.
• Unique worksite conditions present challenges in meeting firefighter health and safety needs.
• Multiple agencies are involved in wildland firefighting operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a web-based safety and health program for wildland firefighters.
• To address the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals fighting wildfires.
• To establish the effectiveness of a Total Worker Health program in this population.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach involving qualitative needs assessment (interviews, focus groups) and a quantitative trial.
• Development of a web-based Total Worker Health program with 6 core and 8 elective modules.
• Evaluation using pre- and post-Likert scale surveys, t-tests, and effect size calculations (Cohen d).

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in knowledge and behaviors related to cancer risk, cardiovascular health, nutrition, hydration, and medical checkups.
• The program demonstrated feasibility, scalability, and usability, with over 80% of respondents recommending it.
• Participant demographics included a majority of White (93.9%) and male (89.3%) firefighters, with an average age of 41.

Conclusions:

• An innovative web-based safety and health program is feasible, scalable, and usable for wildland firefighters.
• The program effectively improved the health and safety of wildland firefighters.
• This initiative offers a scalable solution to enhance well-being in a high-risk occupation.