Total Worker Health for First Responders Needs Assessment

What are the effects of integrating Total Worker Health® (TWH) initiatives into the first responder workplace? Previous research indicates general success in the integration of Total Worker Health initiatives in the general population's workforce. Research shows that there is a positive relationship between proper integration of Total Worker Health and the reduction of health and safety hazards in the workplace. This needs assessment found that TWH interventions require front-line employee input and leadership commitment. A needs assessment was conducted to understand attitudes toward TWH interventions and implementation into the First Responder setting, respondents consisted of 133 public safety employees from across the United States geographic regions, participants included both people in leadership positions as well as those in a general working position. Qualitative and quantitative data was analyzed using an appreciative inquiry approach. Participants felt that a TWH approach would be effective in public safety when the interventions are personally relatable, reliably produce long-term change, are relevant to the industry, use limited resources wisely, and manage conflict or “run-ins” that could occur across organizational levels.