Drill-Based Competence and Fire Preparedness in Commercial Structures
Keywords:
fire preparedness, drill-based competence, commercial structures, disaster managementAbstract
This study examined the influence of drill-based technical competence on fire preparedness in a commercial mall in Nairobi, Kenya. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 187 mall staff through structured questionnaires and drill performance records. Key independent variables included fire-drilling experience, possession of certification, and knowledge of fire-drill equipment; dependent variables were response time, containment time, and fire intensity at containment. Pearson’s Chi-square tests revealed significant associations between technical competence and preparedness outcomes. Staff with drilling experience and certification responded faster and contained fires more quickly, while higher equipment knowledge corresponded with lower fire intensity. Preparedness level was strongly linked to all outcome measures (p = .003). Findings suggest that enhancing technical competence through frequent drills and targeted training can substantially improve operational readiness
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