Understanding the Role of the General Staff in Incident Action Planning
The incident command system (ICS) is a standardized, on-scene, all-hazard incident management approach that enables effective and efficient incident management. Within this system, the preparedness and response efforts are coordinated through various roles and responsibilities, among which the development of the Incident Action Plan (IAP) is paramount. The general staff members play a critical role in preparing, developing, and implementing the IAP, ensuring that all operational activities are aligned with the incident objectives. This article explores which general staff member is primarily responsible for preparing the incident action plans, their specific responsibilities, and how they coordinate within the ICS framework.
Overview of the Incident Command System Structure
Key Components of ICS
The ICS structure is designed to facilitate effective management of incidents regardless of size or complexity. It comprises several key sections:
- Incident Commander
- Command Staff
- General Staff
Each of these components has specific roles to ensure seamless incident management.
The Role of the Incident Commander
The Incident Commander (IC) is responsible for overall incident management, including setting objectives, establishing priorities, and coordinating resources. While the IC provides strategic direction, the tactical planning and detailed development of the IAP are often delegated to the general staff.
The General Staff and Their Responsibilities
Components of the General Staff
The general staff typically includes four primary positions:
1. Operations Section Chief
2. Planning Section Chief
3. Logistics Section Chief
4. Finance/Administration Section Chief
Each plays a vital role in incident management, with distinct responsibilities that collectively support the preparation of the IAP.
The Planning Section Chief: The Principal Author of the IAP
Among the general staff members, the Planning Section Chief is primarily responsible for the development of the Incident Action Plan. This role serves as the backbone of incident planning, coordinating information gathering, analysis, and plan formulation.
Role of the Planning Section Chief in Incident Action Planning
Core Responsibilities
The Planning Section Chief is tasked with:
- Collecting, evaluating, and disseminating incident information
- Developing incident objectives
- Preparing the Incident Action Plan
- Maintaining resource status updates
- Ensuring that all tactical and strategic information is integrated into the plan
Process of Preparing the Incident Action Plan
The Planning Section Chief leads a systematic process to develop the IAP, often involving the following steps:
1. Gathering Data and Situation Status
Collecting real-time information on incident conditions, resource availability, and operational constraints.
2. Establishing Incident Objectives
Working with the Incident Commander to set clear, measurable, and achievable objectives for the operational period.
3. Developing Strategy and Tactics
Collaborating with operations to determine the best courses of action to meet incident objectives.
4. Drafting the IAP
Compiling all strategies, tactical assignments, resource allocations, safety messages, and logistical needs into a comprehensive plan.
5. Review and Approval
Presenting the draft IAP to the Incident Commander and other key personnel for review, modifications, and final approval.
6. Disseminating the Plan
Ensuring all operational personnel and relevant agencies receive and understand the IAP.
Elements Included in the Incident Action Plan
The IAP typically contains:
- Incident objectives
- Strategic operations
- Tactical assignments
- Safety considerations
- Resource management
- Communications plan
- Incident map and diagrams
Coordination with Other Sections in the ICS
Operations Section
The Operations Section Chief executes the tactical portion of the IAP, implementing strategies and directing field personnel. The Planning Section Chief and Operations Chief work closely to refine tactics based on ongoing situational updates.
Logistics Section
Provides resources, facilities, and services necessary for plan execution. The Planning Section Chief coordinates with Logistics to identify resource needs and logistical constraints.
Finance/Administration Section
Handles cost tracking, compensation, and procurement processes. The Planning Section Chief ensures financial considerations are incorporated into planning efforts.
Qualifications and Skills of the Planning Section Chief
Required Knowledge and Skills
The Planning Section Chief should possess:
- Extensive incident management experience
- Strong analytical skills
- Excellent communication and coordination abilities
- Knowledge of incident planning processes and ICS procedures
- Leadership qualities to manage planning staff effectively
Training and Certification
Typically, the Planning Section Chief is trained to at least the ICS-300 and ICS-400 levels, with additional qualifications such as the National Incident Management System (NIMS) certifications.
Other Staff Members' Roles in Incident Action Plan Development
While the Planning Section Chief bears primary responsibility, other roles contribute to the IAP:
- Operations Section Chief: Provides tactical input and operational constraints
- Logistics Section Chief: Offers logistical support details
- Finance/Administration Section Chief: Supplies cost and resource data
- Incident Commander: Approves the final IAP and ensures alignment with incident objectives
Conclusion
The preparation of the Incident Action Plan is a collaborative process within the Incident Command System, with the Planning Section Chief serving as the primary staff member responsible for its development. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of incident dynamics, strategic thinking, and coordination skills. The Planning Section Chief’s leadership ensures that the IAP accurately reflects incident priorities, operational strategies, and resource requirements, facilitating effective incident management. Recognizing the importance of this role underscores the value of proper training, clear communication, and collaborative planning in achieving incident objectives and safeguarding responders and the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which general staff member is responsible for preparing incident action plans during an incident?
The Planning Section Chief is responsible for preparing the incident action plan during an incident.
What role does the Planning Section Chief play in developing incident action plans?
The Planning Section Chief leads the development, collection, and evaluation of information to create the incident action plan.
Is the Incident Commander involved in preparing the incident action plan?
While the Incident Commander provides overall guidance and objectives, the detailed incident action plan is typically prepared by the Planning Section Chief.
How does the Planning Section coordinate with other sections when preparing the incident action plan?
The Planning Section collaborates with Operations, Logistics, and Finance Sections to gather necessary information and ensure the plan aligns with operational needs.
At what point in an incident is the incident action plan usually prepared?
The incident action plan is prepared during the initial planning meeting and updated regularly throughout the incident response.
What tools or methods are used by the Planning Section to prepare the incident action plan?
The Planning Section uses planning meetings, situational assessments, and incident documentation tools to develop and update the incident action plan.
Can other staff members assist in preparing the incident action plan?
Yes, members from various sections can provide input and contribute to the development of the incident action plan under the guidance of the Planning Section Chief.
