Selection Of Incident Commanders Is Done By The:

The selection of incident commanders is done by the: Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), but the specifics can vary widely depending on the nature of the incident, the organizational structure involved, and pre-established protocols. Understanding the nuances of this selection process is crucial for effective incident management.

Understanding the Role of an Incident Commander

The Incident Commander (IC) is the individual in charge at the scene of an emergency. They are responsible for all aspects of the response, including developing incident objectives, managing resources, and ensuring the safety of all personnel involved. The IC provides overall leadership for incident activities.

Key Responsibilities of an Incident Commander

• Establishing Incident Objectives: Defining what needs to be accomplished during the incident.
• Managing Resources: Allocating personnel, equipment, and supplies effectively.
• Ensuring Safety: Prioritizing the well-being of all responders and the public.
• Coordinating with Other Agencies: Working with external organizations to ensure a unified response.
• Developing and Implementing Incident Action Plans (IAPs): Creating a strategic plan for managing the incident.
• Managing Information: Gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information to relevant parties.
• Liaison with Stakeholders: Interacting with the public, media, and other interested parties.
• Delegating Authority: Assigning responsibilities to qualified personnel.

Why the Right IC Matters

The effectiveness of an incident response hinges on the quality of leadership provided by the IC. A well-chosen IC can:

• Ensure a Coordinated Response: Preventing chaos and duplication of effort.
• Maximize Resource Utilization: Getting the most out of available resources.
• Minimize Risk: Protecting responders and the public from harm.
• Achieve Incident Objectives Efficiently: Resolving the incident quickly and effectively.
• Maintain Public Trust: Demonstrating competence and control.

Conversely, a poorly chosen IC can lead to:

• Confusion and Disorganization: Hampering the response effort.
• Wasted Resources: Misallocating personnel and equipment.
• Increased Risk: Exposing responders and the public to unnecessary danger.
• Delayed Resolution: Prolonging the incident and its impacts.
• Erosion of Public Trust: Undermining confidence in the response agencies.

The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ): The Deciding Body

The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is the organization, office, or individual responsible for approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure. It can also refer to having overall responsibility for a specific geographic area or a particular type of incident. For example, a fire department might be the AHJ for fire-related incidents within a city, while a state environmental protection agency might be the AHJ for hazardous materials spills.

How the AHJ Chooses an Incident Commander

The selection process depends on several factors:

• Type of Incident: Different types of incidents may require different expertise.
• Size and Complexity of Incident: Larger, more complex incidents may necessitate a more experienced IC.
• Jurisdictional Agreements: Pre-existing agreements between agencies may dictate who takes command.
• Qualifications and Certifications: ICs should possess the necessary training and certifications.
• Experience: Prior experience in similar incidents is highly valuable.
• Availability: The IC must be available to respond promptly and remain on scene as needed.

Common Scenarios for IC Selection

Here's a breakdown of typical IC selection scenarios based on different types of incidents and jurisdictional structures:

1. Local Fire Department: For most structure fires, vehicle accidents, and other common emergencies within a city or town, the local fire department is usually the AHJ. The first arriving officer on scene typically assumes the role of IC. This is usually based on rank and experience within the department. As the incident escalates, command may be transferred to a higher-ranking officer or a designated IC with specialized qualifications.

2. Law Enforcement: In situations involving criminal activity, civil unrest, or search and rescue operations, law enforcement agencies (e.g., police departments, sheriff's offices) often act as the AHJ. The ranking officer at the scene typically assumes command, coordinating law enforcement activities and working with other responding agencies.

3. Emergency Medical Services (EMS): For medical emergencies, mass casualty incidents, or situations where medical care is the primary focus, EMS agencies may take the lead. A senior paramedic or EMS supervisor usually acts as the IC, directing medical operations and coordinating patient transport.

4. Hazardous Materials Incidents: Environmental Protection Agencies (EPAs), state environmental agencies, or specialized hazardous materials teams are often the AHJ for incidents involving hazardous materials releases. A trained hazardous materials specialist typically serves as the IC, overseeing containment, cleanup, and mitigation efforts.

5. Wildfires: For wildfires, the U.S. Forest Service, state forestry agencies, or local fire departments may be the AHJ, depending on the location and jurisdiction. A qualified wildland fire Incident Commander manages the fire suppression efforts, coordinating resources and personnel from various agencies.

6. Natural Disasters (Hurricanes, Earthquakes, Floods): In large-scale natural disasters, a state emergency management agency or a federal agency like FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) often takes the lead role in coordinating the overall response. They may designate an IC to manage the entire operation, working with local agencies and other stakeholders.

7. Multi-Agency Incidents: In incidents involving multiple agencies, a Unified Command structure is often established. This involves representatives from each agency working together to develop common objectives and strategies. The selection of the IC is a collaborative decision, considering the expertise and responsibilities of each agency involved.

The Incident Command System (ICS)

The Incident Command System (ICS) is a standardized, on-scene, all-hazard incident management concept. ICS allows for a coordinated response by various agencies, regardless of their jurisdiction or function. The AHJ selects the IC, who then implements the ICS structure.

Key Principles of ICS

• Standardization: Using common terminology, procedures, and organizational structures.
• Unity of Command: Each individual reports to only one supervisor.
• Span of Control: Limiting the number of individuals a supervisor is responsible for (ideally 3-7).
• Manageable Span of Control: Ensuring supervisors can effectively manage their subordinates.
• Chain of Command: Following a clear line of authority.
• Accountability: Keeping track of resources and personnel.
• Common Terminology: Using plain language to avoid confusion.
• Resource Management: Efficiently allocating and tracking resources.

ICS Organizational Structure

The ICS structure is flexible and scalable, allowing it to adapt to incidents of varying size and complexity. The basic components include:

• Incident Commander (IC): Responsible for overall incident management.
• Command Staff: Supports the IC and includes:
  • Public Information Officer (PIO): Handles media inquiries and public communication.
  • Safety Officer: Monitors safety conditions and develops safety plans.
  • Liaison Officer: Coordinates with external agencies and stakeholders.
• General Staff: Responsible for functional areas and includes:
  • Operations Section Chief: Manages tactical operations.
  • Planning Section Chief: Develops incident action plans and manages information.
  • Logistics Section Chief: Provides resources and support.
  • Finance/Administration Section Chief: Manages financial and administrative aspects.

Qualifications and Training for Incident Commanders

Becoming a qualified Incident Commander requires a combination of training, experience, and demonstrated competence. While specific requirements vary by jurisdiction and type of incident, some common elements include:

• Formal Training: Completion of ICS courses (e.g., ICS-100, ICS-200, ICS-300, ICS-400) offered by FEMA, state emergency management agencies, or other accredited organizations.
• Experience in Incident Management: Participating in exercises, drills, and real-world incidents.
• Certification: Achieving professional certifications from recognized organizations (e.g., National Wildfire Coordinating Group [NWCG] for wildland fire ICs).
• Continuing Education: Staying current with best practices and emerging trends in incident management.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrating the ability to lead and motivate teams in stressful situations.
• Decision-Making Skills: Making sound judgments under pressure.
• Communication Skills: Effectively communicating with responders, stakeholders, and the public.
• Technical Expertise: Possessing knowledge and skills relevant to the specific type of incident.

Challenges in IC Selection

Despite the importance of selecting qualified ICs, several challenges can arise:

• Limited Pool of Qualified Individuals: Smaller agencies may have a limited number of personnel with the necessary training and experience.
• Availability Issues: Qualified ICs may not always be available when an incident occurs.
• Political Considerations: In some cases, political factors may influence IC selection.
• Lack of Standardized Selection Criteria: The absence of clear, consistent criteria can lead to inconsistent decisions.
• Insufficient Training and Resources: Inadequate training and resources can hinder the development of qualified ICs.

Best Practices for IC Selection

To overcome these challenges and ensure the selection of effective ICs, agencies should implement the following best practices:

1. Develop Clear Selection Criteria: Establish specific criteria for IC selection based on qualifications, experience, and training.

2. Maintain a Qualified IC Roster: Keep a current list of individuals who meet the selection criteria and are available to serve as ICs.

3. Provide Comprehensive Training: Offer regular ICS training and professional development opportunities to build a pool of qualified ICs.

4. Conduct Regular Exercises and Drills: Simulate real-world incidents to provide ICs with practical experience.

5. Establish Mutual Aid Agreements: Develop agreements with neighboring agencies to share IC resources during large-scale incidents.

6. Promote Professional Certification: Encourage personnel to pursue professional certifications in incident management.

7. Use a Standardized Selection Process: Implement a consistent process for selecting ICs based on pre-defined criteria.

8. Consider a Unified Command Structure: In multi-agency incidents, establish a Unified Command structure to share decision-making authority.

9. Evaluate IC Performance: Regularly evaluate IC performance to identify areas for improvement.

10. Support and Mentor Potential ICs: Provide mentorship opportunities to help develop future ICs.

The Transfer of Command

The transfer of command is a process of moving the responsibility for incident command from one Incident Commander to another. This is a critical step in incident management, and if not executed properly, can lead to confusion and disruption. Transfer of command is necessary when:

• A more qualified person arrives on the scene.
• A jurisdiction or agency is legally required to take command.
• The incident changes in complexity.
• Personnel need to rest or be reassigned.

Steps for a Smooth Transfer of Command:

• The current IC must brief the new IC.
• The briefing should include the current situation, incident objectives, resource allocation, and any potential safety hazards.
• The new IC must acknowledge and accept command.
• All personnel should be notified of the change in command.

Potential Pitfalls of Transfer of Command

• Lack of communication: Failure to properly brief the new IC can lead to misunderstandings and errors.
• Resistance to change: Personnel may be resistant to a new IC, especially if they were comfortable with the previous one.
• Interruption of operations: A poorly executed transfer of command can disrupt ongoing operations.

Future Trends in Incident Command

The field of incident management is constantly evolving. Some of the emerging trends that will likely impact IC selection and responsibilities include:

• Increased Use of Technology: Drones, sensors, and data analytics are providing ICs with more information and capabilities.
• Growing Complexity of Incidents: Climate change, urbanization, and globalization are increasing the frequency and severity of complex incidents.
• Greater Emphasis on Interoperability: Agencies are working to improve their ability to communicate and coordinate with each other.
• Enhanced Training and Education: New training programs are being developed to prepare ICs for the challenges of modern incident management.
• Focus on Community Resilience: Incident management is increasingly focused on helping communities prepare for and recover from disasters.

Conclusion

The selection of incident commanders is a critical function performed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The effectiveness of incident response efforts hinges on choosing qualified individuals who can provide strong leadership, make sound decisions, and coordinate resources effectively. By implementing best practices for IC selection, providing comprehensive training, and staying abreast of emerging trends, agencies can ensure that they have the right leaders in place to manage any incident. The Incident Command System (ICS) provides a standardized framework for managing incidents, and understanding ICS principles is essential for all responders. Transfer of command is a critical process that must be executed smoothly to avoid disruption. As incidents become more complex and technology evolves, the role of the IC will continue to grow in importance. By investing in the development of qualified ICs, communities can enhance their resilience and protect themselves from the impacts of disasters.