Investigation on Safety Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance (Safety-KAP) Among Firefighters of Operating Units in Tehran

Abstract

Objectives:This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and performance in safety (safety-KAP) among firefighters operating throughout all fire stations in Tehran. Methods: The statistical population (N) of this study is 420. The Morgan table was used to select the sample size, and 200 individuals completed the questionnaire and returned it. The main instrument of this study was a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of three parts. To determine the validity of the questionnaire, it was provided to the supervisors and consultants and they were asked about the research questions. After applying their views and making the necessary amendments, the final form of the questionnaire was compiled and employed. The reliability of the research was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha (a > 85). The main method of this study was the descriptive-correlational method, and data analysis was done using SPSS software version 19. Results: The results showed that the intensity of correlation between the two variables of knowledge, and attitude with the performance was 0.755 and 0.689, which indicates the direct relationship between the two variables. The amount of multi-correlation coefficient (R) of knowledge and attitude with the staff performance of the operational units in the firefighting department of Tehran is equal to 0.766, which implies a high correlation between knowledge and attitude with the performance of employees in the operational units of the firefighting department of Tehran. The coefficient of determination (R 2 ) is 0.586. In addition, the results showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between the independent variables of age, education, and background of job title with the level of knowledge, attitude, and performance of the staff in operational units of Tehran. Therefore, the age of people between 30 and 40, with a bachelor's degree or higher and high job background, also with a good job title, has an impact on their attitude, knowledge, and performance. Conclusions: According to the job characteristics of firefighters, this study was designed. Considering safety knowledge, attitude, and performance for firefighters are very important for those that are working in a very high-risk situation and condition.