What is it about?
Firefighting is a dangerous and demanding profession, where stress is not only frequent but often linked to real-life emergency situations. However, most existing stress measures are general and do not capture the unique challenges firefighters face during operations. This study developed and validated a new tool called the Scale of Occupational Stress for Firefighters (SOOS-F) to measure stress specifically related to firefighting duties. The scale was created through interviews with experienced firefighters, expert reviews, and multiple stages of testing with large samples. The results showed that firefighter stress can be understood in two main areas: Teamwork-related stress, including coordination and challenges during fire operations Person-related stress, reflecting individual emotional and physical strain The final 30-item scale demonstrated strong reliability and validity, meaning it accurately and consistently measures operational stress in firefighters.
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Why is it important?
Understanding stress in firefighters is essential for improving both safety and well-being. General stress measures often overlook the realities of fire-ground operations, such as teamwork under pressure, unpredictable fire dynamics, and life-threatening situations. This new scale provides a context-specific and scientifically validated tool that organisations and researchers can use to better assess and monitor stress in firefighters. It can help: 1-Identify high-risk stress factors 2-Inform targeted training and support programs 3-Improve mental health interventions 4-Enhance overall performance and safety in emergency services
Perspectives
This study advances the field by moving beyond general stress measurement to a context-driven understanding of occupational stress in firefighting. It highlights that stress is not only an individual experience but also shaped by team dynamics and operational conditions. Future research can use this scale to explore stress across different cultures, emergency systems, and disaster contexts. For practitioners, the SOOS-F offers a practical tool for designing evidence-based interventions that address both individual and team-level stressors.
Saqib Ali
University of Gujrat
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Development and validation of Scale of Occupational Stress for Firefighters., International Journal of Stress Management, September 2025, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/str0000373.
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