Understanding the demands of firefighting: A qualitative study of firefighters’ workplace experiences

Firefighting is a high-risk occupation characterized by exposure to stressors, traumatic events, and demanding work schedules that may influence employee behavioral health and workplace functioning. Although firefighter mental health outcomes have received increasing attention, less is known about how firefighters themselves understand the daily workplace conditions shaping their interpersonal functioning, occupational performance, and well-being. Accordingly, the purpose of this qualitative study was to explore firefighters’ lived workplace experiences, including occupational demands, organizational culture, and perceived impacts on behavioral health. Twenty-two career firefighters participated in semi-structured interviews examining job demands, lifestyle characteristics, and occupational challenges and benefits. Reflexive thematic analysis identified five interconnected themes: (1) job demands, (2) firefighter lifestyle and identity, (3) workplace cohesiveness enhancers and inhibitors, (4) occupational benefits, and (5) workplace challenges. Findings illustrate how behavioral health outcomes are embedded within organizational structures such as shift schedules, shared living environments, and strong occupational identity. Participants described emotional strain, sleep disruption, work–family spillover, and public scrutiny alongside fulfillment, camaraderie, and meaning derived from service. Results highlight how firefighter behavioral health is shaped by complex organizational and interpersonal dynamics. Implications are discussed for workplace behavioral health interventions emphasizing organizational supports, peer cohesion, family-system awareness, and prevention-focused strategies.