Work-related Stress and Coping Mechanism among Bureau of Fire Protection Personnel in Bacolod City

Abstract

What happens when our rescuers need rescuing after work? Studies show that firefighters most likely encounter different work-related stressors, especially ones that cause Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, among others. This study deals with quantitative research utilizing a survey method that measured the work-related stress and coping mechanisms of Bureau of Fire Protection personnel in Bacolod City. Seventy Bureau of Fire Protection personnel employed for the year 2019 at seven sub-stations were chosen to answer a questionnaire prepared by the researchers. The results revealed that the level of work-related stress is generally moderate. The same level was shown when the respondents were grouped according to age, sex, years of service, family income, and educational attainment. The levels of coping of the respondents in terms of active coping and acceptance coping are generally high but moderate in passive coping and avoidance coping. Moreover, low avoidance coping was shown in respondents serving five years or less and those taking or with a master’s degree. Furthermore, there are no significant differences among the respondents’ work-related stress levels. No significant differences were present in the respondents’ active, passive, acceptance, and avoidance coping levels. No significant relationships between work-related stress and active, passive, and avoidance coping were shown in correlation. Meanwhile, a significant relationship was noted between work-related stress and acceptance coping. In conclusion, the respondents’ results showed that firefighting personnel accept the consequences of their jobs as they move on to another day serving and protecting the community.