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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 May 2025
During disasters, support for victims is prioritized, with EMTs providing essential medical care. However, the health of EMT members and other supporters is often overlooked. To address this issue, Japan implemented the J-SPEED Health Checkup tool for the first time during the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in January 2024 to collect real-time health data on EMTs and supporters.
This study aims to examine the fatigue levels and influencing factors among EMT members and other supporters.
The J-SPEED Health Checkup tool collected data on fatigue levels and factors such as working environment, activity type, job type. Fatigue levels were measured on a scale from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater fatigue. A multivariable regression analysis was conducted to determine the association between fatigue and these factors.
From January 1 to March 31, 2024, a total of 20,551 data were collected. Logisticians reported significantly higher fatigue scores than other job types, with an increase of 0.23 points. Those working in headquarters also had higher fatigue scores compared to other activity types, with an increase of 0.19 points. Responders who perceived worse “unclear tasks,” “unsafe working environment,” and “lack of meals and breaks” reported significantly higher fatigue levels.
The study highlights the significant impact of job type, activity type, and perceived working conditions on the fatigue levels of EMT members and other supporters during disaster response efforts. Addressing these factors is crucial to ensuring the well-being of responders, which in turn can enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of disaster response operations.