Unsuccessful adoption of technology can significantly reduce workplace efficiency
and productivity. Understanding the factors that influence firefighters' acceptance of
technology is crucial for successfully implementing innovations, especially among fire
administrators. This research investigates factors influencing Cebu City firefighters'
perceptions of surveillance drone technology for firefighting operations, adapting John
Stewart's 2019 technology acceptance model.
Surveys conducted with 125 fire suppression personnel at Cebu City Fire Station
explored constructs including Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PE),
Social Influence (SI), Facilitating Conditions (FC), Self-Efficacy (SE), and Behavioral
Intention (BI). Findings highlight PU and BI as primary predictors of firefighters'
perceptions towards drone technology, stressing their willingness to integrate drone skills
into their roles.
The study reveals that firefighters are enthusiastic about using surveillance drones
in their operations, seeing potential benefits in efficiency and effectiveness. It emphasizes
the need for the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to develop a strategic plan for integrating
drones, possibly revising existing strategies. Recommendations include integrating drone
training into firefighting programs, leveraging perceived usefulness to support BFP's
modernization efforts, enhancing facilitating conditions for successful adoption, and
advocating for future qualitative studies to enrich understanding of technology acceptance
in firefighting contexts. Financially, there are considerations for purchasing, maintaining
drones, and training personnel, which could be offset by perceived operational benefits and
potential government support. Policy-wise, clear guidelines on privacy, regulatory
compliance, and data management are crucial for safe and effective drone use in
firefighting operations. These insights aim to enhance operational efficiency and
effectiveness in firefighting through strategic technology adoption.