INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM

Canadian Version

CANADIAN NATIONAL TRAINING CURRICULUM

ICS POSITION
DESCRIPTIONS AND
RESPONSIBILITIES

December 2003
 INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM
Canadian Version

ICS POSITION DESCRIPTIONS AND

RESPONSIBILITIES

Prepared by

Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre

Resource Management Working Group

Based on
ICS Position Descriptions and Responsibilities
1994
PMS 203
NFES 2433
National Wildfire Co-ordinating Group

Provides a comprehensive description of the responsibilities of the organizational

elements within each section of the ICS

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 Incident Command System

Incident Command System

Agency Executive
or
EOC (if Activated)

Incident Command
(Commander)

Information Deputy I/C

Safety
Liaison

Operations Section Planning Section Logistics Section Finance/Admin Section

Staging Areas Resources Unit Service Branch Time Unit

Situation Unit Procurment Unit
Documentation Unit Communication Unit Compensation/Claims Unit
Branches Air Ops Branch Demobilization Unit Medical Unit Cost Unit
Food Unit
Air Tactical Support Branch
Divisions/Groups
Air Support
Supply Unit
Sectors Facilities Unit
Ground Support Unit
Strike Teams
Task Forces
Single Resources

I. Introduction

The ICS organization develops around five major functions that are required on any
incident whether it is large or small. For some incidents, and in some applications, only a
few of the organization’s functional elements may be required. However, if there is a
need to expand the organization, additional positions exist within the ICS framework to
meet virtually any need.

ICS establishes lines of supervisory authority and formal reporting relationships. There is

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 complete unity of command as each position and person within the system has a designated
supervisor. Direction and supervision follows established organizational lines at all times.

The following are the major responsibilities and duties of all ICS positions. Individual
agencies may have additional responsibilities and more detailed lists of duties.

II. Incident Commander and Command Staff

A. Incident Commander

The Incident Commander’s responsibility is the overall management of the

incident. On most incidents, the command activity is carried out by a single
Incident Commander. The Incident Commander is selected by qualifications and
experience.

The Incident Commander may have a deputy, who may be from the same agency,
or from an assisting agency. Deputies may also be used at section and branch
levels of the ICS organization. Deputies must have the same qualifications as the
person for whom they work as they must be ready to take over that position at any
time.

Responsibilities:

• Assess the situation and/or obtain a briefing from the prior Incident
Commander.
• Determine Incident Objectives and strategy.
• Establish the immediate priorities.
• Establish an Incident Command Post.
• Establish an appropriate organization.
• Ensure planning meetings are scheduled as required.
• Approve and authorize the implementation of an Incident Action Plan.
• Ensure that adequate safety measures are in place.
• Coordinate activity for all Command and General Staff.
• Coordinate with key people and officials.
• Approve requests for additional resources or for the release of resources.
• Keep agency administrator informed of incident status.
• Approve the use of trainees, volunteers, and auxiliary personnel.
• Authorize release of information to the news media.
• Order the demobilization of the incident when appropriate.

B. Command Staff

1. Information Officer

The Information Officer is responsible for developing and releasing

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 information about the incident to the news media, to incident personnel,
and to other appropriate agencies and organizations.

Only one Information Officer will be assigned for each incident, including
incidents operating under Unified Command and multijurisdiction
incidents. The Information Officer may have assistants as necessary, and
the assistants may also represent assisting agencies or jurisdictions.

Responsibilities:

Agencies have different policies and procedures relative to the handling of

public information. The following are the major responsibilities of the
Information Officer which would generally apply on any incident:

• Determine from the Incident Commander if there are any limits on

information release.
• Develop material for use in media briefings.
• Obtain Incident Commander’s approval of media releases.
• Inform media and conduct media briefings.
• Arrange for tours and other interviews or briefings that may be
required.
• Obtain media information that may be useful to incident planning.
• Maintain current information summaries and/or displays on the
incident and provide information of status of incident to assigned
personnel.
• Maintain Unit Log.

2. Liaison Officer and Agency Representatives

a. Liaison Officer

Incidents that are multijurisdictional, or have several agencies

involved, may require the establishment of the Liaison Officer
position on the Command Staff.

The Liaison Officer is the contact for agency representatives

assigned to the incident by assisting or cooperating agencies. These
are personnel other than those on direct tactical assignments or
those involved in a Unified Command.

Liaison Officer major responsibilities and duties:

• Be a contact point for Agency Representatives.

• Maintain a list of assisting and cooperating agencies and
Agency Representatives.
• Assist in establishing and coordinating interagency

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 contacts.
• Keep agencies supporting the incident aware of incident
status.
• Monitor incident operations to identify current or potential
inter-organizational problems.
• Participate in planning meetings, providing current
resource status, including limitations and capability of
assisting agency resources.
• Maintain Unit Log.

b. Agency Representatives

In many multijurisdiction incidents, or incidents with interagency

personnel assigned, an agency or jurisdiction will send a
representative to assist in coordination efforts.

An Agency Representative is an individual assigned to an incident

from an assisting or cooperating agency who has been delegated
full authority to make decisions on all matters affecting that
agency’s participation at the incident.

Agency Representatives report to the Liaison Officer or to the

Incident Commander in the absence of a Liaison Officer.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure that all agency resources are properly checked-in at

the incident.
• Obtain briefing from the Liaison Officer or Incident
Commander.
• Inform assisting or cooperating agency personnel on the
incident that the Agency Representative position for that
agency has been filled.
• Attend briefings and planning meetings as required.
• Provide input on the use of agency resources unless
resource technical specialists are assigned from the agency.
• Cooperate fully with the Incident Commander and the
General Staff on agency involvement at the incident.
• Ensure the well-being of agency personnel assigned to the
incident.
• Advise the Liaison Officer of any special agency needs or
requirements.
• Report to home agency dispatch or headquarters on a
prearranged schedule.
• Ensure that all agency personnel and equipment are

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 properly accounted for and released prior to departure.
• Ensure that all required agency forms, reports and
documents are complete prior to departure.
• Have a debriefing session with the Liaison Officer or
Incident Commander prior to departure.

3. Safety Officer

The Safety Officer’s function on the Command Staff is to develop and

recommend measures for assuring personnel safety, and to assist and/or
anticipate hazardous and unsafe situations.

Only one Safety Officer will be assigned for each incident. The Safety
Officer may have assistants as necessary, and the assistants may also
represent assisting agencies or jurisdictions. Safety assistants may have
specific responsibilities such as air operations, hazardous materials, etc.

Responsibilities:

• Participate in planning meetings.

• Identify hazardous situations associated with the incident.
• Review the Incident Action Plan for safety implications.
• Exercise emergency authority to stop and prevent unsafe acts.
• Investigate accidents that have occurred within the incident area.
• Assign assistants as needed.
• Review and approve the medical plan.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

III. The ICS General Staff Positions

The General Staff consists of the following positions:

• Operations Section Chief

• Planning Section Chief
• Logistics Section Chief
• Finance/Administration Section Chief

A. Operations Section

1. Responsibilities:

• Manage tactical operations.

− Interact with next lower level of Section (Branch,
Division/Group or Sector) to develop the operations portion of
the Incident Action Plan.

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 − Request resources needed to implement the Operation’s tactics
as a part of the Incident Action Plan development (ICS 215).
• Assist in development of the operations portion of the Incident
Action Plan.
• Supervise the execution of the incident Action Plan for Operations.
− Maintain close contact with subordinate positions.
− Ensure safe tactical operations
• Request additional resources to support tactical operations.
• Approve release of resources from assigned status (not release
from the incident).
• Make or approve expedient changes to the Incident Action Plan
during the Operational Period as necessary.
• Maintain close communication with the Incident Commander.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

2. Branch Director (Branches may be functional or geographic)

Responsibilities:

• Obtain briefing from the Operations Section Chief.

• Supervise Branch operations.
• Develop alternatives for Branch control operations.
• Interact with the Operations Section Chief and other Branch
Directors to develop tactics to implement incident strategies.
• Be prepared to attend incident planning meetings at the request of
the Operations Chief.
• Review Division/Group assignments within the Branch and report
status to the Operations Section Chief.
• Assign specific work tasks to Division/Group Supervisors.
• Monitor and inspect progress and make changes as necessary.
• Resolve logistics problems reported by subordinates.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

3. Division/Group Supervisor

Responsibilities:

• Obtain briefing from the Operations Section Chief or appropriate

Operations Branch Director.
• Review assignments with subordinates.
• Inform Resource Unit (if established) of status changes of
resources assigned to the Division/Group.

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 • Coordinate activities with adjacent Divisions/Groups.
• Monitor and inspect progress and make changes as necessary.
• Keep supervisor informed of situation and resources status.
• Review Sector assignments within the Division and report status to
the Branch Director.
• Assign specific work tasks to Task Force/Sector Leaders.
• Resolve tactical assignment and logistics problems within the
Division/Group.
• Keep supervisor informed of hazardous situations and significant
events.
• Ensure that assigned personnel and equipment get to and from their
assignments in a timely and orderly manner.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

4. Task Force/Sector Leader

Responsibilities:

• Obtain briefing from supervisor (Division/Group Supervisor,

Operations Section Chief, or Incident Commander, depending
upon how the incident is organized).
• Review assignment with subordinates and assign tasks.
• Travel to and from active Sectors with assigned resources.
• Monitor and inspect progress and make changes as necessary.
• Coordinate activities with adjacent Sectors, single resources, or
with a functional group working in the same location.
• Keep supervisor advised of situation and resource status.
• Retain control of assigned resources while in available or out-or-
service status.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

5. Single Resource

The person in charge of a single tactical resource will carry the unit
designation of the resource.

Responsibilities:

• Obtain briefing from the Division/Group Supervisor or Task

Force/Sector Leader.
• Review assignments.
• Obtain necessary equipment/supplies.
• Review weather/environmental conditions for assignment area.

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 • Brief subordinates on safety measures.
• Monitor work progress.
• Ensure adequate communications with supervisor and
subordinates.
• Keep supervisor informed of progress and any changes.
• Inform supervisor of problems with assigned resources.
• Brief relief personnel, and advise them of any change in
conditions.
• Return equipment and supplies to appropriate unit.
• Complete and turn in all time and use records on personnel and
equipment.

6. Staging Area Manager

The Staging Area Manager reports to the Operations Section Chief or to

the Incident Commander if the Operations Section Chief position has not
been filled.

Responsibilities:

• Establish layout of Staging Area.

• Post areas for identification and traffic control.
• Provide check-in (ICS 211) for incoming resources.
• Determine required resource reserve levels from the Operations
Section Chief or Incident Commander.
• Advise the Operations Section Chief or Incident Commander when
reserve levels reach minimums.
• Maintain and provide status to Resource Unit of all resources in
Staging Area.
• Respond to Operations Section Chief or Incident Commander
requests for resources.
• Request logistical support for personnel and/or equipment as
needed.
• Maintain Staging Area in an orderly condition.
• Demobilize or move Staging Area as required.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

7. Air Operations Branch Director

Responsibilities

• Obtain briefing from Operations Section Chief.

• Organize preliminary Air Operations.

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• As appropriate, initiate request for NOTAMS.
• Participate in the preparation of the Incident Action Plan.
• Perform Operational Planning for Air Operations.
• Prepare and distribute the Air Operations Summary Worksheet
(ICS Form 220).
• Supervise air operations branch personnel and coordinate with
incident and off-incident personnel and agencies.
• Evaluate helibase locations.
• Establish procedures for emergency reassignment of aircraft.
• Schedule approved flights of non-incident aircraft into the incident
area.
• Evaluate requests for non-tactical use of incident aircraft.
• Resolve conflicts concerning non-incident aircraft involved in
incident over-flights.
• Monitor for accidents or special incidents.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

a. Air Tactical Group Supervisor

Responsibilities:

• Check-in and receive incident assignment (usually via

radio).
• Obtain briefing from Air Operations Branch Director, or
Operations Section Chief. If possible, obtain a copy of the
current Incident Action Plan.
• Determine type and quantity of aircraft (fixed-wing and
helicopters) operating on the incident; report to Air
Operations Branch Director.
• Determine potential availability of additional aircraft
resources and their approximate flight time to the incident.
• Make recommendations to Air Operations Branch Director
regarding adequacy of available aircraft to accomplish
incident objectives.
• Based upon the Incident Action Plan, manage all air tactical
activities.
• Establish and maintain communications with (as
appropriate):
Pilots
Air Operations
Air Attack Officer
Air Support Group (e.g., Helibase Manager)
Fixed-wing bases

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• Coordinate flights in restricted air space by non-incident
aircraft or non-tactical flights (flight approval to be granted
by the Air Operations Branch Director).
• Report on violations of restricted air space area by non-
incident aircraft.
• Receive briefing from the Air Operations Branch Director
on air traffic external to the incident.
• Recommend tactical strategy to approved ground contact
(Operations Section Chief, Branch Director, or
Division/Group Supervisor).
• Advise Air Operations Branch Director of tactical
recommendations, and keep the Director updated on all air
activities.
• Report conflicts or potential conflicts in the air traffic
control system caused by incident air activities.
• Report accidents and incidents to the Air Operations Branch
Director.
• Supervise the air tactical personnel assigned.

1 Air Attack Officer

Air Attack Officer has primary responsibilities for

coordinating all assigned airborne fixed-wing airtanker
operations while at the incident. The Air Attack Officer
is not assigned to an incident management team. The
Air Attack Officer, who is always airborne, may report
to the Air Tactical Group Supervisor while over an
incident. In the absence of an ATGS the AAO will
report to the AOBD or an Operations Section contact
as assigned.

Responsibilities:

• Check-in and receive incident assignment (usually via

radio).
• Obtain briefing from Air Tactical Group Supervisor or
Air Operations Branch Director.
• Determine type and quantity of aircraft (fixed-wing and
helicopter) operating within incident area of
assignment.
• Determine fixed-wing aircraft capabilities and
limitations.
• Maintain continuous observation of assigned area and
inform Air Tactical Group Supervisor of problems or

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 potential problems (e.g., hazards, aircraft malfunctions,
and maintenance difficulties).
• As needed, coordinate air traffic control procedures
with :
Air Tactical Group Supervisor
Pilots
Air Operations Branch Director
Air Support Group Supervisor

• Coordinate the use of communications frequencies for

ground-to-air and air-to-air communications with :
Air Tactical Group Supervisor
Incident Communications Unit
Local agency dispatch center

• Implement all air safety requirements and procedures.

• Supervise all fixed-wing airtanker activities :
Receive assignments
Brief pilots
Report on mission completion; reassign as directed
• Coordinate activities as appropriate with :
Air Operations Branch Director
Air Tactical Group Supervisor
Operations personnel
• As necessary, provide information to ground resources.
• Immediately report accidents or incidents to the Air
Tactical Group Supervisor and the Air Operations
Branch Director.
• Maintain records of activities.

b. Air Support Group Supervisor

Responsibilities:

• Check-in and obtain briefing from Air Operations Branch

Director or Operations Section Chief.
• Review Incident Action Plan and Air Operations Summary
Worksheet (prepared by Air Operations Branch Director).
• Provide input to Air Operations Branch Director for
incident planning.
• Keep the Air Operations Branch Director updated on Air
Support Group activities.
• Identify resources/supplies on order for Air Support Group;
review adequacy of retardant and dust abatement chemicals
for use at helibases and helispots.

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 • Request special air support items from Logistics Section.
• Working with the Air Operations Branch Director, identify
helibase and helispot locations, taking into consideration:
Safety – Is the facility safe for operation? Are approach and
departure routes clear of obstructions?
Flight routes – Do helicopters fly over residential areas?
Will locations allow expansion and 24-hour operations?
Are adequate and easily accessible fuel, maintenance,
safety and support resources in close proximity to the base.
• If helibases are located adjacent to major roads, determine
need for traffic control and implement control measures.
• Determine personnel and equipment needs at each helibase
and helispot; review the Air Operations Branch Director.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with each agency’s
requirements for day and night operations.
• Inform Air Operations Branch Director of night flying
capability
• Coordinate special requests for air logistics.
• Coordinate with airbases supporting the incident.
• Obtain assigned ground-to-air frequency for helibase and
helispot operations from Communications Plan (ICS 205) or
Communications Unit Leader.
• Ensure the establishment and activation of air traffic control
procedures between helibase and helispots and the Air
Tactical Group Supervisor and Air Attack Officer.
• Supervise the implementation of dust abatement procedures
at helibase and helispots.
• Provide crash/rescue services for helibases and helispots.
• Maintain Unit Log.

1. Helibase Manager

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from the Air Support Group

Supervisor.
• Review Incident Action Plan, including Air
Operations summary Worksheet (ICS Form 220).
• Participate in Air Support Group planning.
• Upon reporting to assigned helibase, brief pilots and
assigned personnel.
• Keep Air Support Group Supervisor updated on
helibase activities.

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 • Ensure that helibase is adequately posted and
cordoned.
• Manage resources/supplies dispatched to helibase; as
needed, order additional resources from Air Support
Group Supervisor.
• Coordinate air traffic control procedures at the
helibase with:
Pilots
Air Support Group Supervisor
Air Tactical Group Supervisor
Air Attack Officer

• Post copies of work schedule and other organizational

information at each helibase, including assigned radio
frequencies and helispot organization.
• Supervise loading operations, including any retardant
mixing that might be required.
• Supervise helicopter fueling, maintenance, and repair
services.
• Supervise manifesting and loading of personnel and
cargo.
• Ensure that dust abatement procedures are in use at
helibases and helispots
• Ensure that adequate security is in place at each
helibase and helispot.
• Ensure that crash/rescue services are provided for the
helibase.
• Respond to special requests for air logistics.
• Supervise the maintenance of all agency records,
including reports of helicopter activities, Check-In
List (ICS 211) and Unit Log (ICS 214).
• Solicit and record pilot input concerning selection and
adequacy of helispots, communications, air traffic
control, operational concerns, and safety problems.

2. Helispot Manager

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from Helibase Manager.

• Review Incident Action Plan, including Air
Operations Summary Worksheet (ICS 220).
• Report to assigned helispot.
• Review and take steps to alleviate potential

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 hazards/problems, including:
Adequate dust control
Debris that may blow into rotor systems
Excessively steep touchdown slope
Insufficient rotor clearance
• Coordinate with pilots for safe and efficient landing
and takeoff, and loading and unloading.
• Manage all resources/supplies assigned to helispot.
• As needed, request special air support items from
Helibase Manager.
• Keep Helibase Manager informed of all helispot
activities.
• As needed, coordinate air traffic control and
communications with:
Pilots
Helibase Manager
Air Tactical Group Supervisor
Air Attack Officer
• Ensure the availability of crash/rescue resources.
• Supervise or perform retardant or other resource
loading.
• Manifest and load personnel and cargo as required.
• Maintain agency records and reports regarding
helicopter activities.

3. Deck Coordinator

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from Helibase Manager.

• Review Air Operations Summary Worksheet (ICS
220).
• Establish and mark landing pads.
• Establish emergency landing areas.
• Ensure that crash/rescue procedures are fully
understood by deck personnel.
• Ensure that deck area and emergency landing areas
are posted.
• Review adequacy of personnel to safely load and
unload personnel and cargo; order additional staff as
needed.
• Supervise deck management personnel (Loadmasters
and Parking Tenders).

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 • Ensure that all assigned personnel are posted to the
daily organization chart.
• Maintain vehicle control procedures.
• As needed, perform or supervise dust control
procedures.
• Ensure proper manifesting and load calculations.
• Ensure that air traffic control is coordinated with the
Landing and Takeoff Coordinator.
• Maintain appropriate agency records.

4. Loadmaster

Responsibilities:

• Obtain briefing from Deck Coordinator

• Review Air Operations Summary Worksheet (ICS
220).
• Ensure the proper posting of loading and unloading
areas.
• Manifest and load personnel and cargo; supervise
loading and unloading crews.
• Review crash/rescue procedures with loading and
unloading crews.
• Ensure that sling load equipment is safe.
• Coordinate with Takeoff and Landing Coordinator.

5. Parking Tender

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from the Deck Coordinator.

• Supervise landing pad activities (e.g., personnel and
helicopter movement, vehicle traffic, etc.).
• Review crash/rescue procedures.
• Tend fire extinguisher during any fueling operations.
• Ensure that any required agency procedures and
checklists are being followed.
• Review safety procedures with passengers.
• Ensure that the landing pad is properly marked and
maintained (e.g., dust/debris abatement).
• Ensure that helicopter pilot support needs are met.
• Check personnel seatbelts, cargo restraints and
helicopter doors.

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6. Take-off and Landing Coordinator

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from Helibase Manager.

• Review Air Operations Summary Worksheet (ICS
220).
• Perform thorough check of radio system.
• Coordinate helicopter flight routes and patterns with
Helibase Radio Operator.
• Maintain communications with all incoming and
outgoing helicopters.
• Maintain constant communications with Helibase
Radio Operator.
• Coordinate with Deck Coordinator and Parking
Tender prior to commencing operations and during
operations.

7. Helibase Radio Operator

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from Helibase Manager.

• Review Air Operations Summary Worksheet (ICS
220).
• Establish helibase communication system.
• Ensure that orders/communications from Air
Operations Branch Director are relayed to Helibase
Manager.
• Verify daily radio frequencies with Helibase Manager.
• Establish and post helicopter identification call
numbers.
• Establish and enforce proper radio procedures.
• Receive clearance from Air Tactical Group
Supervisor prior to launching helicopters.
• Maintain constant communications with helicopters
and Takeoff and Landing Controller.
• Maintain a log of all helicopter takeoff/landings,
ETAs, ETDs, and flight route check-ins.
• Supervise helicopter time keeping.
• Immediately notify Helibase Manager of any overdue
or missing helicopters.

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 • Review crash/rescue procedures.

8. Helicopter Timekeeper

Responsibilities:

• Receive briefing from the Helibase Radio Operator.

• Review Air Operations Summary Worksheet (ICS
220).
• Determine number of assigned helicopters (by
Agency).
• Determine Agencies’ helicopter timekeeping needs.
• Record operating time for all helicopters.
• Obtain required timekeeping forms from agencies.
• As necessary, complete all agency time reports.

B. Planning Section

The Planning Section collects, evaluates, processes, and disseminates information

for use at the incident. When activated, the Section is managed by the Planning
Section Chief who is a member of the General Staff.

There are four units within the Planning Section that can be activated as
necessary:

• Resources Unit
• Situation Unit
• Documentation Unit
• Demobilization Unit

1. Planning Section Chief

Responsibilities:

• Collect and process situation information about the incident.

• Supervise preparation of the Incident Action Plan.
• Provide input to the Incident Commander and Operations Section
Chief in preparing the Incident Action Plan.
• Reassign out-of-service personnel already on-site to ICS
organizational positions as appropriate.
• Establish information requirements and reporting schedules for
Planning Section units (e.g., Resources, Situation Units).
• Determine need for any specialized resources in support of the
incident.
• If requested, assemble and disassemble strike teams and task forces

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 not assigned to operations.
• Establish special information collection activities as necessary,
e.g., weather, environmental, toxic, etc.
• Assemble information on alternative strategies.
• Provide periodic predictions on incident potential.
• Report any significant changes in incident status.
• Compile and display incident status information.
• Oversee preparation of Incident Demobilization Plan.
• Incorporate the incident traffic plan (from Ground Support) and
other supporting plans into the Incident Action Plan.
• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214).

2. Unit Leader Responsibilities

In ICS, a number of the Unit Leader’s responsibilities are common to all

units in all parts of the organization. Common responsibilities of Unit
Leaders are listed below. These will not be repeated in Unit Listings
below:

• Obtain briefing from Section Chief.

• Participate in incident planning meetings, as required.
• Determine current status of unit activities.
• Confirm dispatch and estimated time of arrival of staff and
supplies.
• Assign specific duties to staff; supervise staff.
• Develop and implement accountability, safety and security
measures for personnel and resources.
• Supervise demobilization of unit, including storage of supplies.
• Provide Supply Unit Leader with a list of supplies to be
replenished.
• Maintain unit records, including Unit Log (ICS 214).

3. Resources Unit

This unit is responsible for maintaining the status of all assigned resources
(primary and support) at an incident. It achieves this through:

• Overseeing the check-in (ICS 211) of all resources.

• Maintaining a status-keeping system indicating current location
and status of all resources.
• Maintenance of a master list of all resources, e.g., key supervisory
personnel, primary and support resources, etc.

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 Responsibilities:

• Establish check-in function at incident locations.

• Prepare Organization Assignment List (ICS 203) and Organization
Chart (ICS 207).
• Prepare appropriate parts of Division Assignment Lists (ICS 204).
• Prepare and maintain the Command Post display (to include
organization chart and resource allocation and deployment).
• Maintain and post the current status and location of all resources.
• Maintain master roster of all resources checked in at the incident.
• A Check-In Recorder reports to the Resources Unit Leader and is
responsible for accounting for all resources assigned to an incident.

4. Situation Unit

The collection, processing and organizing of all incident information takes

place within the Situation Unit. The Situation Unit may prepare future
projections of incident growth, maps and intelligence information.

Responsibilities:

• Begin collection and analysis of incident data as soon as possible.

• Prepare, post, or disseminate resource and situation status
information as required, including special requests.
• Prepare periodic predictions or as requested.
• Prepare the Incident Status Summary Form (ICS 209).
• Provide photographic services and maps if required.

Three positions report directly to the Situation Unit Leader:

• Display Processor – Maintains incident status information obtained

from Field Observers, resource status reports, etc. Information is
posted on maps and status boards as appropriate.
• Field Observer – Collects and reports on situation information
from the field.
• Weather Observer –Collects current weather information from the
weather services or an assigned meteorologist.

5. Documentation Unit

The Documentation Unit is responsible for the maintenance of accurate,

up-to-date incident files. Duplication services will also be provided by the
Documentation Unit. Incident files will be stored for legal, analytical and
historical purposes.

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 Responsibilities:

• Set up work area; begin organization of incident files.

• Establish duplication services; respond to requests.
• File all official forms and reports.
• Review records for accuracy and completeness; inform appropriate
units of errors or omissions.
• Provide incident documentation as requested.
• Store files for post-incident use.

6. Demobilization Unit

The Demobilization Unit is responsible for developing the Incident

Demobilization Plan. On large incidents, demobilization can be quite
complex, requiring a separate planning activity. Note that not all agencies
require specific demobilization instructions.

Responsibilities:

• Review incident resource records to determine the likely size and

extent of demobilization effort.
• Based on above analysis, add additional personnel, work space and
supplies as needed.
• Coordinate demobilization with Agency Representatives.
• Monitor ongoing Operations Section resource needs.
• Identify surplus resources and probable release time.
• Develop incident check-out function for all units.
• Evaluate logistics and transportation capabilities to support
demobilization.
• Establish communications with off-incident facilities, as necessary.
• Develop an incident demobilization plan (ICS 221) detailing
specific responsibilities and release priorities and procedures.
• Prepare appropriate directories (e.g., maps, instructions, etc.) for
inclusion in the demobilization plan.
• Distribute demobilization plan (on and off-site).
• Ensure that all Sections/Units understand their specific
demobilization responsibilities.
• Supervise execution of the incident demobilization plan.
• Brief Planning Section Chief on demobilization progress.

7. Technical Specialists

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 Certain incidents or events may require the use of Technical Specialists
who have specialized knowledge and expertise. Technical Specialists may
function within the Planning Section, or be assigned wherever their
services are required. In the Planning Section, Technical Specialists may
report to the following:

• Planning Section Chief

• A designated Unit Leader

C. Logistics Section

All incident support needs are provided by the Logistics Section, with the
exception of aviation support. Aviation support is handled by the Air Support
Group in the Air Operations Branch.

The Logistics Section is managed by the Logistics Section Chief, who may assign
a Deputy. A Deputy is most often assigned when all designated units (listed
below) within the Logistics Section are activated.

Six units may be established within the Logistics Section:

• Supply Unit
• Facilities Unit
• Ground Support Unit
• Communications Unit
• Food Unit
• Medical Unit

The Logistics Section Chief will determine the need to activate or deactivate a
unit. If a unit is not activated, responsibility for that unit’s duties will remain with
the Logistics Section Chief.

1. Logistics Section Chief

Responsibilities:

• Manage all incident logistics.

• Provide logistical input to the IC in preparing the Incident Action
Plan.
• Brief Branch Directors and Unit Leaders as needed.
• Identify anticipated and known incident service and support
requirements.
• Request additional resources as needed.
• Review and provide input to the Communications Plan (ICS 205),
Medical Plan (ICS 206) and Traffic Plan.

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 • Supervise request for additional resources.
• Oversee demobilization of Logistics Section.

2. Supply Unit

The Supply Unit is responsible for ordering, receiving, processing and

storing all incident-related resources.

All off-incident resources will be ordered through the Supply Unit,

including:

• Tactical and support resources (including personnel).

• All expendable and non-expendable support supplies.

Responsibilities:

• Provide input to Logistics Section planning activities.

• Provide supplies to Planning, Logistics, and
Finance/Administration Sections.
• Determine the type and amount of supplies enroute.
• Order, receive, distribute, and store supplies and equipment.
• Respond to requests for personnel, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment.
• Service reusable equipment, as needed.

Two Managers report directly to the Supply Unit Leader:

• Ordering Manager – Places all orders for incident supplies and

equipment.
• Receiving and Distribution Manager – Receives and distributes all
supplies and equipment (other than primary tactical resources), and
is responsible for the service and repair of tools and equipment.

For some applications, a Tool and Equipment Specialist may be

assigned to service and repair all hand tools. The Specialist reports
to the Receiving and Distribution Manager.

3. Facilities Unit

This Unit is responsible for set up, maintenance and demobilization of all
incident support facilities except Staging Areas. The Facilities Unit will
also provide security services to the incident as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Participate in Logistics Section/Support Branch planning activities.

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• Determine requirements for each incident facility.
• Prepare layouts of facilities; inform appropriate unit leaders.
• Activate incident facilities.
• Obtain and supervise personnel to operate facilities, including Base
and Camp Managers.
• Provide security services.
• Provide facility maintenance services, e.g., sanitation, lighting, etc.
• Demobilize base and camp facilities.

Three managers report directly to the Facilities Unit Leader. When

established at an incident, they have important responsibilities.

• Security Manager – Provides safeguards necessary for protection

of personnel and property from loss or damage. Duties of the
Security Manager will include but are not limited to:

• Establish contacts with local law enforcement agencies as

required.
• Contact the resource use specialists (if assigned) or Agency
Representatives to discuss any special custodial
requirements which may affect operations.
• Request required personnel to accomplish work
assignments.
• Ensure that support personnel are qualified to manage
security problems.
• Develop a security plan for incident facilities.
• Adjust the security plan for personnel and equipment
changes and release.
• Coordinate security activities with appropriate incident
personnel.
• Keep the peace, prevent assaults, and settle disputes
through coordination with Agency Representatives.
• Prevent theft of all property.
• Investigate and document all complaints and suspicious
occurrences.
• Demobilize in accordance with the Incident Demobilization
Plan.

• Base Manager – Ensures that appropriate sanitation, security, and

facility management services are in place at the Base. Duties of the
Base Manager will include but are not limited to:

• Determine requirements for establishing an Incident Base.

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 • Understand and comply with established restrictions.
• Determine personnel support requirements.
• Obtain necessary equipment and supplies.
• Ensure that all facilities and equipment necessary for base
support operations are set up and functioning.
• Make sleeping area assignments.
• Ensure strict compliance with applicable safety regulations.
• Ensure that all facility maintenance services are provided.
• Ensure that adequate security and access control measures
are being applied.
• Demobilize Base when directed.

• Camp Manager – On large incidents, one or more camps may be

established. Camps may be in place several days or they may be
moved to various locations.

• Determine or establish number of personnel assigned to

camp.
• Determine any special requirements or restrictions on
facilities or operations.
• Obtain necessary equipment and supplies.
• Ensure that all sanitation, shower, and sleeping facilities are
set up and properly functioning.
• Make sleeping arrangements and assignments.
• Provide direct supervision for all facility maintenance and
security services.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety regulations.
• Ensure that all camp-to-base communications are centrally
coordinated.
• Ensure that all camp-to-base transportation scheduling is
centrally coordinated.
• Provide overall coordination of camp activities to ensure
that all assigned units operate effectively and cooperatively
in meeting incident objectives.
• Demobilize the camp in accordance with the Incident
Action Plan.

4. Ground Support Unit

The Ground Support Unit is primarily responsible for the maintenance,

service, and fueling of all mobile equipment and vehicles, with the
exception of aviation resources. The Unit also has responsibility for the
ground transportation of personnel, supplies and equipment, and the

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 development of the Incident Traffic Plan.

Responsibilities:

• Participate in Support Branch/Logistics Section planning activities.

• Provide support services (fueling, maintenance, and repair) for all
mobile equipment and vehicles.
• Order maintenance and repair supplies (e.g., fuel, spare parts).
• Provide support for out-of-services equipment.
• Develop the Incident Traffic Plan. (Should be done by a person
experienced in traffic management.)
• Maintain an inventory of support and transportation vehicles.
• Record time use for all incident-assigned ground equipment
(including contract equipment).
• Update the Resources Unit with the status (location and capability)
of transportation vehicles.
• Maintain a transportation pool on larger incidents as necessary.
• Maintain incident roadways as necessary.

An Equipment Manager reports to the Ground Support Unit Leader and is

responsible for the service, repair, and fuel for all equipment;
transportation and support vehicle services; and to maintain equipment use
and service records.

5. Communications Unit

The Communications Unit is responsible for developing plans for the use
of incident communications equipment and facilities; installing and testing
of communications equipment; supervision of the Incident
Communications Center; and the distribution and maintenance of
communications equipment.

Responsibilities:

• Advise on communications capabilities/limitations.

• Prepare and implement the incident Radio Communications Plan
(ICS 205).
• Establish and supervise the Incident Communications Center and
Message Center.
• Establish telephone, computer links, and public address systems.
• Establish communications equipment distribution and maintenance
locations.
• Install and test all communications equipment.
• Oversee distribution, maintenance and recovery of

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 communications equipment, e.g., portable radios and FAX
machines.
• Develop and activate an equipment accountability system.
• Provide technical advice on:
− Adequacy of communications system
− Geographical limitations
− Equipment capabilities
− Amount and types of equipment available
− Potential problems with equipment

6. Food Unit

The Food Unit is responsible for supplying the food needs for the entire
incident, including all remote locations (e.g., Camps, Staging Areas), as
well as providing food for personnel unable to leave tactical field
assignments.

Responsibilities:

• Determine food and water requirements.

• Determine method of feeding to best fit each facility or situation.
• Obtain necessary equipment and supplies and establish cooking
facilities.
• Ensure that well-balanced menus are provided.
• Order sufficient food and potable water from the Supply Unit.
• Maintain an inventory of food and water.
• Maintain food service areas, ensuring that all appropriate health
and safety measures are being followed.
• Supervise caterers, cooks, and other Food Unit personnel as
appropriate.

7. Medical Unit

The Medical Unit will develop an Incident Medical Plan (to be included in
The Incident Action Plan); develop procedures for managing major
medical emergencies; provide medical aid; and assist the
Finance/Administration Section with processing injury-related claims.

Note that the provision of medical assistance to the public or victims of

the emergency is an operational function, and would be done by the
Operations Section and not by the Logistics Section Medical Unit.

Responsibilities:

• Determine level of emergency medical activities prior to activation

of Medical Unit.

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 • Acquire and manage medical support personnel.
• Prepare the Medical Emergency Plan (ICS Form 206).
• Establish procedures for handling serious injuries of responder
personnel.
• Respond to requests for:
− medical aid
− medical transportation
− medical supplies
• Assist the Finance/Administration Section with processing paper
work related to injuries or deaths of incident personnel.

D. Finance/Administration Section

The Finance/Administration Section is responsible for managing all financial

aspects of an incident. Not all incidents will require a Finance/Administration
Section. Only when the involved agencies have a specific need for
Finance/Administration services will the Section be activated.

There are four units which may be established within the Finance/Administration
Section:

• Time Unit
• Procurement Unit
• Compensation/Claims Unit
• Cost Unit

1. Finance/Administration Section Chief

Responsibilities:

• Manage all financial aspects of an incident.

• Provide financial and cost analysis information as requested.
• Gather pertinent information from briefings with responsible
agencies.
• Develop an operating plan for the Finance/Administrations
Section; fill supply and support needs.
• Determine need to set up and operate an incident commissary.
• Meet with Assisting and Cooperating Agency Representatives as
needed.
• Maintain daily contact with agency(s) administrative headquarters
on Finance/Administration matters.
• Ensure that all personnel time records are accurately completed
and transmitted to home agencies, according to policy.
• Provide financial input to demobilization planning.

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 • Ensure that all obligation documents initiated at the incident are
properly prepared and completed.
• Brief agency administrative personnel on all incident-related
financial issues needing attention or follow-up.

2. Time Unit

The Time Unit is responsible for ensuring the accurate recording of daily
personnel time, compliance with specific agency(s) time recording
policies, and managing commissary operations if established at the
incident.

As applicable, personnel time records will be collected and processed for

each operational period.

Responsibilities:

• Determine incident requirements for time recording function.

• Contact appropriate agency personnel/representatives.
• Ensure that daily personnel time recording documents are prepared
and in compliance with agency(s) policy.
• Maintain separate logs for overtime hours.
• Establish commissary operation on larger or long-term incidents as
needed.
• Submit cost estimate data forms to Cost Unit as required.
• Maintain records security.
• Ensure that all records are current and complete prior to
demobilization.
• Release time reports from assisting agency personnel to the
respective Agency Representatives prior to demobilization.

Two positions may report to the Time Unit Leader:

• Personnel Time Recorder – Oversees the recording of time for all

personnel assigned to an incident. Also records all personnel-
related items, e.g., transfers, promotions, etc.
• Commissary Manager – Establishes, maintains, and mobilizes
commissary. Also responsible for commissary security.

3. Procurement Unit

All financial matters pertaining to vendor contracts, leases, and fiscal

agreements are managed by the Procurement Unit. The unit is also
responsible for maintaining equipment time records.

The Procurement Unit establishes local sources for equipment and

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 supplies; manages all equipment rental agreements; and processes all
rental and supply fiscal document billing invoices. The unit works closely
with local fiscal authorities to ensure efficiency.

Responsibilities:

• Review incident needs and any special procedures with Unit

Leaders, as needed.
• Coordinate with local jurisdiction on plans and supply sources.
• Obtain Incident Procurement Plan.
• Prepare and authorize contracts and land use agreements, as
needed.
• Draft memoranda of understanding.
• Establish contracts and agreements with supply vendors.
• Provide for coordination between the Ordering Manager, agency
dispatch, and all other procurement organizations supporting the
incident.
• Ensure that a system is in place which meets agency property
management requirements. Ensure proper accounting for all new
property.
• Interpret contracts and agreements; resolve disputes.
• Coordinate with Compensation/Claims Unit for processing claims
• Coordinate use of imprest funds as required
• Complete final processing of contracts and send documents for
payment.
• Coordinate cost date in contracts with Cost Unit Leader.

Equipment Time Recorder – Oversees the recording of time for all

equipment assigned to an incident. Also posts all charges or credits
for fuel, parts, service, etc., used by equipment.

4. Compensation/Claims Unit

In ICS, Compensation-for-Injury and Claims are contained within one

Unit. However, given their differing activities, separate personnel may
perform each function. These functions are becoming increasingly
important on many kinds of incidents.

Compensation-for-Injury oversees the completion of all forms required by

workers’ compensation and local agencies. A file of injuries and illnesses
associated with the incident will also be maintained, and all witness
statements will be obtained in writing. Close coordination with the
Medical Unit is essential.

Claims is responsible for investigating all claims involving property

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 associated with or involved in the incident. This can be an extremely
important function on some incidents.

Responsibilities:

• Establish contact with incident Safety Officer and Liaison Officer

(or Agency Representative if no Liaison Officer is assigned).
• Determine the need for Compensation-for-Injury and Claims
Specialists and order personnel as needed.
• Establish a Compensation-for-Injury work area within or as close
as possible to the Medical Unit.
• Review Incident Medical Plan.
• Review procedures for handling claims with Procurement Unit.
• Periodically review logs and forms produced by
Compensation/Claims Specialists to ensure compliance with
agency requirements and policies.
• Ensure that all Compensation-for-Injury and Claims logs and
forms are complete and routed to the appropriate agency for post-
incident processing prior to demobilization.

Two specialists report to the Compensation/Claims Unit Leader.

• Compensation-for-Injury Specialist – Administers financial

matters arising from serious injuries and deaths on an incident.
Work is done in close cooperation with the Medical Unit.
• Claims Specialist – Manages all claims-related activities (other
than injury) for an incident.

5. Cost Unit

The Cost Unit provides all incident cost analysis. It ensures the proper
identification of all equipment and personnel requiring payment; records
all cost data; analyzes and prepares estimates of incident costs; and
maintains accurate records of incident costs.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with agency headquarters on cost reporting procedures.

• Collect and record all cost data.
• Develop incident cost summaries.
• Prepare resources-use cost estimates for the Planning Section.
• Make cost-saving recommendations to the Finance/Administration
Section Chief.

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