Abstract
Aim: The aim of this paper is to present the theoretical and empirical results of the research that was carried out at the turn of years 2010 and 2011 during author’s PhD studies. Moreover, it is a specific kind of presentation of the final solution in the field of management and command. Finally, it is a proposal for the introduction of new safety matrices for the State Fire Service with the application of matrix methodology.
Introduction: With the development of civilization and technology, year by year, the number of threats and events provoked by the nature and the human beings on our planet has been increasing. From the very beginning, people have sought constant solutions which would guarantee them safety of their life, health and their possessions. Therefore, in last years, numerous entities and emergency institutions have been set up. Emergency services, inter alia, the State Fire Service, must aspire to cope with all the challenges. Effective management and coordination of rescue and firefighting actions are the main elements which influence the effectiveness of operations. Trying to face up to specialists’ expectations in the field of managing and command, the author of this publication conducted research, inter alia, in the area of creating matrices of safety. The article “Usage of safety matrix in management and coordination of rescue and firefighting activities of the State Fire Service” presents the suggestion that safety matrices can be used during firefighting actions.
Results: The paper shows the rescue potential of the State Fire Service and types of tasks that are performed onsite of the action. Using testing methods and techniques, the group of threats which involves the firefighting units was distinguished. Moreover, the results of the survey which was conducted among firefighters were presented. Additionally, on the basis of the above mentioned elements, and in terms of safety and hazard, the drawings of two matrices for the State Fire Service and for other emergency services were demonstrated.
Conclusions: To sum up, the author indicates possible areas of the usage of new matrices by the State Fire Service in the field of safety, coordination and command during firefighting operations. Furthermore, it is suggested that matrix methodology as well as safety matrices will be the core of computer software in the field of management and command.
Keywords: safety matrix, management, safety management, coordination of activities, State Fire Service
Type of article: original scientific article