Incident Command
Incident Command
The exam tests ICS/NIMS structure for hazmat: who commands, who controls the hazmat group, how safety and accountability are built in, and how command transfers without losing control.
Core rules
- The first-arriving officer establishes command and remains until command is transferred face-to-face with a briefing.
- The incident commander sets objectives and strategy; a hazmat group supervisor manages tactical hazmat operations and reports through operations.
- The safety officer monitors unsafe conditions and has authority to stop unsafe acts. The IC does not freelance in the hot zone.
- Use unified command when multiple agencies have jurisdiction or responsibility. Command post, staging, and media areas go upwind and away from runoff.
- Build an incident action plan or tactical worksheet: objectives, zones, entry teams, backup teams, decon, monitoring, medical, communications, and contingencies.
- Maintain span of control and check-in/accountability.
Worked example
A chlorine release at a water plant involves fire, EMS, police, and public works. Command establishes unified command with fire and police, sets an upwind command post, assigns a hazmat group, safety officer, staging, and medical. The hazmat group proposes entry only after monitoring, PPE, backup, and decon are in place. The IC approves the plan and keeps the public out of the protective action zone. If command transfers to a later-arriving chief, the briefing covers objectives, layout, entry status, and contingencies.
Traps
- IC entering the hot zone and losing command.
- No face-to-face transfer briefing.
- Hazmat group reporting to everyone instead of through operations.
- Command post placed downwind or in the contamination path.
- No documented tactical worksheet or backup team.