Improving Firefighter Health Through Education in Sleep Science

Abstract

Sleep impacts all aspects of life, from mental health to physical well-being to job performance. Nowhere is this more important than in the fire service, where extreme working conditions are the norm. One of 44 stations in a large fire department (XFD), Firehouse X, has 21 full-time members, six on duty per shift. A microsystem assessment of Firehouse X revealed poor sleep habits and environmental factors that are not conducive to quality sleep. The role of sleep in the fire service has recently been examined, and interventions aimed at improving firefighters’ sleep have been recommended. This quality improvement project implemented a four-week educational program on sleep science in Firehouse X from May to July 2024. Members were provided with educational materials in various formats weekly. A station sleep champion kept members engaged in the program. Environmental changes were supported. Members were surveyed before and after implementation using the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The aim of this project was to improve sleep quality by 25% over four weeks and have 90% participation. 17 of the eligible 18 members participated in the first survey, but an additional two were unavailable for the 4-week follow-up. Thus, participation fell from 94% to 83%. Results demonstrated that all but one member improved their sleep scores, with three members improving by over 25%. However, the average percent improvement was 15%, falling short of the 25% goal. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of educating firefighters in sleep science. This program can be expanded to other firehouses in XFD