Desafíos del trabajo social en el abordaje del estrés laboral en el personal del Cuerpo de Bomberos Arenillas 2024

Abstract

Job stress is a significant problem that directly affects the physical, emotional and social well-being of firefighters, limiting their performance and ability to respond adequately to their work, these situations become even more complex in professions of high demand and tension, as is the case of the operational personnel of the institution. This research deals with “Challenges of social work in addressing work stress in the personnel of the Fire Department” of Arenillas Canton in El Oro Province in the period 2024, aiming to design an intervention proposal that contributes to improve their quality of life, strengthen their work performance and promote a healthier institutional environment, for this purpose it addresses several important issues related to working conditions and emotional well-being of the personnel of the institution. The legal framework is based on legal norms such as: Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador, Labor Code, Organic Law of Public Service (LOSEP), Firefighters' Health and Safety Regulations. The research arises from the observation of an existing problem with in the institution “Fire Department”, for this reason, it was necessary to know how occupational stress manifests itself in this group, identify its causes and propose effective strategies from the field of Social Work. Our research project is based on an explanatory paradigm with a qualitative approach noting that the research is descriptive in nature, therefore, use is made of techniques and instruments such as: direct observation and interview, applied to a sample of 16 members of the Fire Department; Which allowed to obtain direct information on the main causes and consequences and ways in which work stress is manifested in their institutional environment, such as excessive workload, lack of time due to unforeseen events and the deficit of personnel. Based on these findings, a guide of strategies was designed, which was carried out in the institution through socialization on the importance of addressing occupational stress, which was presented the strategies designed, aimed at strengthening teamwork, emotional well-being and the promotion of self-care in the personnel of the institution, who valued the proposal positively. The Guide includes group dynamics, breathing exercises, active breaks, adapted to the institutional reality of the Fire Department, with the aim of establishing healthier habits and promoting a more humane and resilient environment. The proposal entitled “Strategy Guide”, not only aims to reduce stress levels, but also to contribute to the formation of an institutional culture that appreciates well-being, mental health and the importance of mutual care among colleagues. The work shows the importance of continuing to promote actions from Social Work aimed at improving the working and emotional conditions of those who sacrifice their lives for the benefit of others. It is concluded that Social Work has the challenge and responsibility to act effectively in institutional risk environments, providing tools, support and strategies that promote healthier and sustainable environments.