Factors associated with changes in perceived strain at work among fire-fighters: a 3-year follow-up study.

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate individual and work-related psychosocial factors associated with changes in the perceived physical and mental strain among fire-fighters.

Methods: The 3-year follow-up study, done by a questionnaire, was based on data on 632 fire-fighters. The associations were investigated mainly by logistic regression modelling.

Results: Accidents were associated with increased perceived physical as well as mental strain (OR 1.4-2.6). Unfair distribution of work tasks was associated with increased perceived physical strain (OR 8.5, CI 1.5-49.6). Frequent differences of opinion disturbing work (OR 2.7, CI 1.2-6.1) and lack of possibilities for career advancement (OR 4.6, CI = 1.0-22.5) were associated with perceived increased mental strain at work.

Conclusions: The results suggest that measures to reduce the perceived physical and mental strain of fire-fighters should be multi-factorial. However, to determine the content of the measures needs further intervention studies.