Manual For Fire & Rescue Operations PDF

CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 4.0 REV. 00 FIRE INCIDENT COMMAND The purpose of this Operating Instruction is to provide a standardized approach to Fire Incident Command, control, and coordination of emergency response providing a comm...

CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 4.0 REV. 00 FIRE INCIDENT COMMAND The purpose of this Operating Instruction is to provide a standardized approach to Fire Incident Command, control, and coordination of emergency response providing a common hierarchy within which responders from multiple agencies can be effective, managing incidents. This instruction provides the Fire Commander with a clear framework to structure, organise and manage emergencies effectively. It defines Command within structures during any stages of the incident (initial, expanding and contracting) and outline roles & responsibilities that seamlessly integrates with the QatarEnergy Incident Management System (IMS). 4.1 COMMAND INSTRUCTIONS Response organization described in this instruction shall align with the QatarEnergy Incident Management System. It is recognized that day to day management hierarchies may not align with the response organization required to effectively manage an emergency response. Response leaders shall use this Operating Instruction to build a response structure which enables clear command and control measures and enables integration, coordination, and communication among involved organizations. 4.2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMAND The Fire Commander is responsible for the overall management of QatarEnergy F&R resources on-site during an incident. The safety, rehabilitation and accountability of personnel are taken into consideration when achieving the following incident priorities: • Safety - Provide for the safety, accountability, and rehabilitation of personnel. • Life Safety - Remove endangered occupants and treat the injured. • Stabilization - Stabilize the incident and provide for life-safety. • Property Conservation - Conserve property. • Environmental - To protect air, water, and land. The Fire Commander is responsible for developing an on-scene incident structure. The development of the on-scene incident structure should begin with deployment of the first arriving QatarEnergy F&R resources (i.e., from the 1st Alarm), and continue expanding or contracting based on the incident needs. The Fire Incident Command organization must develop at a pace which stays ahead of the tactical deployment of personnel and resources. 4.3 FUNCTIONS OF COMMAND The highest-ranking officer from QatarEnergy F&R attending and commanding an incident onsite shall be referred to as the Fire Commander. Upon arriving onsite, he will carry out the following Functions of Command: 1. Ensure that formal command is established from the onset of the incident. 2. Assume and announce Command and establish an effective initial Forward Command Post, when necessary. 3. Rapidly evaluate the situation (size-up)(dynamic risk assessment). 4. Initiate, maintain, and control effective incident communications. 5. Provide and manage a steady, adequate, and timely stream of appropriate resources. Page 5 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 6. Develop the initial incident briefing (verbal or supported by IMS-201) including identifying objectives and assign appliances and personnel to achieve those objectives. 7. Develop an effective incident organization using Sectors / Divisions to split workload and maintain span of control. 8. Review the incident size, resources, and objectives on a regular basis 9. Brief incoming personnel and transfer of command if more senior personnel arrive. 10. Provide a system to process information to support incident safety, accountability, management, planning, and decision making. The Fire Commander is responsible for all these functions. If Command is transferred, so is the responsibility for these functions. 4.4 ESTABLISHING COMMAND The first, highest ranking QatarEnergy F&R member (typically a Station Officer) to arrive at the scene of an incident shall assume command of his resources deployed at the incident. The initial Fire Commander shall remain in command until command is transferred, or the incident is stabilized or concluded. • The first Fire Commander on the scene must initiate the parts of the IMS necessary to effectively manage the incident. • The 1st attending officer will always Book in Attendance with ECC. • For incidents that require commitment of additional resources the first officer on the scene must communicate ‘Command” to Emergency Communication Centre (ECC) as part of the standard initial radio ETHANE message and initiate an appropriate onsite organization for the incident (see section 5.9) • Decide if a Unified Command should be established with On-Scene Commander (OSC) and other Leads to align on objectives. 4.5 PRIMACY OF COMMAND Primacy of command shall be with: • The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) at the asset or installation that is the origin of the incident; by default the Asset Operator (AO is subject matter expert and accountable); • QatarEnergy emergency services for fire incidents at non-process or production assets, i.e., office buildings or pre-defined list of assets as agreed between QatarEnergy and AOs; • National responders for assets where they are the Authority Having Jurisdiction, i.e., if they are the first responders at the scene; especially in remote locations or pipeline corridors. The only exception will be where AHJ have made an alternative formal agreement. 4.6 RISK MANAGEMENT One of the Fire Commanders primary duties is to determine the life safety profile of the incident and ensure first responders are not exposed to undue risks. The Fire Commander should integrate principles of risk management into the functions of command. Risk management involves the identification and evaluation of risk, and the prioritization of actions followed by coordinated application of resources to minimize, monitor, and control Page 6 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 the probability and/or impact of events or to maximize the realization of opportunities. Risk management should be based on the following principles: 1. Activities that present a significant risk to the safety of responders shall be limited to situations where there is a potential to save lives. 2. Activities that are routinely employed to protect property shall be recognized as inherent risks to the safety of responders, and actions shall be taken to reduce or avoid these risks. 3. No risk to the safety of responders shall be acceptable when there is no possibility to save lives or property. 4. In situations where the risk to responders is excessive, activities shall be limited to defensive operations, or risk mitigations should be employed to reduce exposure to responders. The Fire Commander has to decide on the level of risk to firefighting personnel during the Size-Up and based on the risk decides how to best deploy firefighting crews bearing in mind that: 1. The first priority is the safety of firefighters; 2. The second priority is protecting saveable lives; 3. The third priority is protecting saveable property; and 4. There is no advantage in committing resources to save what is already lost. 4.7 SIZE-UP The Fire Commander in the first-arriving appliance is faced with the need to make proper and reasonable decisions under the immediate pressure of the emergency. The size-up process allows the Fire Commander to gather vital information about the incident. Effective size-up begins from the moment the alarm is received and it continues until the incident is stabilized. As such, it should include information gathered during preplanning activities. The following five-point size-up system can be utilized when operating at an incident: • • (Facts that the situation • presents) • Facts • Probabilities • (Predictions based upon • the existing situation) • • • • (Resources and capabilities) • • Situation Time of the incident Location of the incident Nature of the incident Life hazards Life hazards Extent of the incident Explosion potential Collapse potential Weather changes Personnel and equipment on scene Availability of additional resources Available water supply Appropriate mode of firefighting Page 7 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 • Decision • (Resulting from your • analysis of the above three items) • • • Plan of Operation • • 4.8 REV. 00 Actions already taken Determine strategy Evaluate tactical options Select tactics Issue tactical assignments Coordinate activities Evaluate results Alter activities as necessary COMMAND OPTIONS The Fire Commander should not engage directly in firefighting operations and instead make it a top priority to establish a Forward Command Post (FCP) to effectively coordinate and direct firefighting operations. At most incidents a Station Officer will be the initial Fire Commander. 4.8.1 Stationary Command (Forward Command Post) Certain incidents, by virtue of their size, complexity, or potential for rapid expansion, demand early, strong, stationary command from the outset. In these cases, the first arriving Fire Commander will assume command and, from the very beginning stay out of the hazard zone in the FCP. The Fire Commander must remain there until the incident is terminated or command is transferred. The incident briefing form IMS-201 shall be initiated and utilized to assist in managing these types of incidents. If the officer assumes a Stationary Mode, the following options are available with regards to the assignment of the remaining crew members. • The officer assigns the next highest-ranking member to direct the remaining crew members. This is determined by the individual and collective capabilities and experience of the crew. • The officer may assign the crew members to work under the supervision of another officer. • The officer assigns the crew members to perform staff functions to assist the Fire Commander. Staff functions include reconnaissance/reporting, communications assistance; help with incident reporting and tracking etc. 4.8.2 Mobile Command In rare cases where the first arriving officer determines that a Stationary Mode is not practical, the officer should declare either Investigative Mode or Fast Attack Mode. In these modes the Fire Commander may elect to join his crew in action/investigation. He will continue to be fully responsible for Command functions. It must be highlighted that Mobile Command shall be an expectation and the priority is to establish a Forward Command Post by concluding Mobile Command as soon as possible. Investigative Mode (Nothing Showing) Page 8 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 This is a mobile Command on a portable radio, moving around and evaluating conditions while looking for the incident problem. The Fire Commander should go with the 1 st Alarm resources to investigate while utilizing a portable radio to command the incident. Fast Attack Mode Fire Commander arrives and his direct participation in the attack will make a positive difference in the outcome (search and rescue, fire control, and crew safety). Fire Commander gives an initial radio report and quickly assign an attack team. Next arriving units all should stage. Fire Commander carries a portable radio and supervises the crew in the attack. Examples of these situations include: • Visible working fire in a house or small commercial occupancy. • Critical life safety situations (i.e., rescue that must be achieved in a compressed time). • Any incident where the safety of firefighters is a major concern. • Obvious working incidents that require further investigation by the Fire Commander. • Concerns on combined crew experience level. In fast attack mode, the Fire Commander must initiate and continue command until another officer, for instance a Station Commander, arrives and the transfer of command is completed. The entire team responding behind the fast attackers must realize that the Fire Commander is in an attack position inside the hazard zone attempting to quickly resolve the incident. Responding appliances must critically listen to radio traffic, update, review and reinforce the initial size-up, verify the safety, rehabilitation, and accountability of the fast attackers, and back up the basic attack. The Fast−attack−mobile Command mode should not last more than a few minutes and will end with one of the following: • Situation is stabilized. • Command is transferred from the fast attack Station Officer to a later arriving officer, for example, the Station Commander. • If the situation is not stabilized, the fast attack Station Officer must move to an exterior FCP and is now in the Stationary Mode. The Station Officer must decide whether or not to withdraw the remainder of the crew, based on the crew’s capabilities and experience, safety issues, and the ability to communicate with the crew. No crew will remain in a hazardous area without radio communications. 4.9 INCIDENT ACTION PLAN An Incident Action Plan (IAP) is an organized, well-thought-out, course of events developed to address all phases of incident control within a specific time. The IAP must be completed in a time frame that allows control and stabilization of the incident as soon as possible. Every incident shall have an action plan, but form and size depend on the incident complexity and command decisions. • Small to medium sized incidents: Verbal or supported by the incident briefing form (IMS-201 (Appendix C)). • Complex and protracted incidents: Transition from IMS-201 to a written IAP for each operational period developed by the Incident Management Team (IMT). The Fire Commander is responsible for ensuring the IMS-201 is completed. For complex and protracted incidents where an IMT has been mobilized command will be transferred to the Incident Commander and it is the responsibility of the IMT to develop a written IAP. The Page 9 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 Incident Commander will develop the overall objectives and tactical priorities, while the Fire Commander will be responsible for the execution and defining the tactics to achieve the tactical priorities to support the overall plan. As majority of the incidents are ‘small’ the planning will typically follow the steps shown below: TABLE 4.1: STEPS AND OBJECTIVES INITIAL RESPONSE Step Description/ Action Objective 1. Incident Incidents usually occur without warning. Initiate notification & response 2. Notification Notify staff at the scene, first response and/or 1st Alarm assignment Initiate initial response 3. Size-Up & Incipient / First response / 1st Alarm assignment assess the situation, identify first actions and initial response tactics Understand situation Brief responders on-scene on first actions and initial objectives Provide instruction & secure safety Brief on-scene leads; identify escalation threats, align objectives; address work; Form IMS-201 can be used. Aligned, safe and effective response 6. Work Assignments executed by resources on-scene Stabilize situation / prevent escalation 7. Assessment Assess progress made towards objectives, identify risks, review resources & coordination required. Understand needs & requirements for control Brief on-scene leads on progress, (adjusted) tactics & objectives; potential support by IMS-201. Inform & adapt to situation Once the situation is in control and assignment for resources completed, deactivation and debrief are executed. Controlled deactivation of resources Response 4. Initial Incident Briefing 5. Initial OnScene Command Briefing 8. Incident Briefing 9. Deactivate & Debrief Note the following • Steps 6 to 8 will often be repeated, having frequent verbal updates and progress meetings. • Short-term responses, which are small in scope and/or duration (e.g., a few resources working together till the response phase ends), can often be coordinated using only an Incident Briefing Form (IMS-201). Page 10 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 • 4.10 REV. 00 Individual on-scene leads may apply the Form IMS-214 (appendix D) to log their activities. INCIDENT BRIEFING The initial incident command briefing is to update the on-scene leads and align initial objectives. The meeting should be brief and provides leads with an opportunity to discuss and concur on important issues and decide if they establish Unified Command. The results of this meeting will help to guide the overall response efforts. After execution of work and assessment of the progress and escalation risk, the recurring Incident Briefing (step 8) is a natural moment to decide if the incident requires additional support and coordination. The On-Scene/ Unified Command will decide to: 1. Manage the incident on scene 2. Request for support by the IMT / Incident Support Team (IST) The decision to request support from the IMT / IST will be scenario driven. In general (partial) activation of an IMT / IST shall be considered if: • The incident will become protracted and/or needs additional support. • There is an Impact Area outside the influence and control of the tactical response at the scene. • Initiating activation of the IST can be a decision by the OSC or the Fire Commander. Both have the authority to request support by the IST. Activation of the IMT / IST often marks a transfer from reactive and mainly verbal driven and communicated objectives to a proactive phase, where the planning and anticipation to manage the incident resources and consequences become dominant. It can induce a transfer of command as explained in 4.11. 4.11 TRANSFER OF COMMAND Command is transferred to improve the quality of the Command organization. When Command is transferred, it should trigger upgrades in the Fire Incident Command structure. The following guidelines outline the transfer of Command. Using a standard routine for both establishing and transferring command creates the capability within the responding units for the Fire Commander to effectively and safely establish and continue command. Transfer of Command procedure: 1. The first F&R officer arriving on the scene will automatically assume Command for QatarEnergy F&R. This will normally be a Station Officer. 2. If a more senior officer (Station Commander, CFO) arrives on-scene he should book in attendance and assume Command following a Transfer of Command process. 3. Subsequent arriving Officers should report their location to the Fire Commander and wait for an assignment. 4. Assumption of Command is discretionary for Station Commanders and the CFOs. 5. When an incident is of such scale or duration that additional resources and support is required, an IMT / IST may be activated. In this case the AHJ will transfer Command to the Incident Commander. QatarEnergy Fire Commander remains responsible and in command of the resources under his control irrespective of IMT activation or not. Page 11 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 In certain situations, it may be beneficial for first officer on the scene to transfer Command to the next arriving officer. This is indicated when the initial commitment of the 1st Alarm assignment requires a full crew and supervision, and another officer has arrived on the scene that can manage the fire ground. When a Station Commander arrives at the scene at the same time as the 1 st Alarm assignment, the Station Commander should assume Command of the incident by virtue of rank and seniority. "Passing Command" to a unit that is not on the scene creates a gap in the Command process and compromises incident management. To prevent this "gap", Command shall not be transferred to an officer who is not on the scene. Should a situation occur where a later arriving officer cannot locate or communicate with Command (after several radio attempts), they will assume and announce their assumption of Command and initiate whatever actions are necessary to confirm the safety of the missing crew. Within the chain of Command, the actual transfer of Command will be regulated by the following procedure: 1. The officer assuming Command will communicate with the person being relieved by radio or face−to−face. Face−to−face is the preferred method to transfer Command. 2. The person being relieved will brief the officer assuming Command indicating at least the following (IMS-201 can be utilized): a. General situation status: • Incident conditions (fire location and extent, HazMat spill or release, number of casualties, etc.) • Incident Action Plan. Completion of the Tactical Objectives. • Safety considerations. b. Fire ground organizational structure c. Deployment and assignments of resources and personnel. d. Consideration of need for additional resources 3. When there is a change in command the officer assuming command must state "I am taking over" and communicate this to the incident ground and ECC (all personnel involved in the incident shall be notified). The arrival of a more senior Officer at the incident scene does not mean that Command has been automatically transferred to that officer. Command is only transferred when the Transfer of Command process has been completed. The person being relieved of Command will be assigned to the best advantage by the new Fire Commander. A more senior Officer may elect to have a subordinate continue the role of Fire Commander. In cases where an individual is effectively commanding an incident, and satisfactory progress is being made to bring the incident under control, it may be desirable for that person to continue in an active Command role. The more senior Officer must determine if the Fire Commander is completely aware of the position and function of operating appliances and the general situational status. In these cases, the arriving more senior officer may assume a supportive/mentoring role, while continuing to monitor the performance of the acting Fire Page 12 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 Commander. If the incident becomes too complex the ranking officer must assume Command. When F&R is responding to AO(s) (which by default have Primacy of Command) the Fire Commander should approach OSC to decide if they should establish a Unified Command and/or if AO would like to transfer the role of OSC to the Fire Commander. If command is transferred, the Fire Commander shall be known as On-Scene Commander. 4.12 SINGLE COMMAND In Single Command, command is designated to a single OSC who has overall incident management responsibility. Single command applies: • To an incident within a single jurisdiction without jurisdictional or functional agency overlap; • If jurisdictions and organizations involved agree to designate a single command function. For F&R this typically occurs when responding as the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 4.13 UNIFIED COMMAND In Unified Command multiple jurisdictional responsibilities and/or responding organisations form a joint Command and manage the response under an integrated command structure with aligned objectives. Unified Command can be applied when: • More than one agency has incident jurisdiction; • Incidents cross jurisdictional geographical boundaries requiring an aligned response. For Fire & Rescue this typically occurs when responding to AOs. Under Unified Command: • Multiple jurisdictions and organizations work together effectively without affecting individual agency authority, responsibility, or accountability for its personnel and other resources; these remain with each participating partner. • Unified Command manages the incident by jointly approved objectives, there is no one “commander”. • Each member of Unified Command is responsible for keeping other members of the Unified Command informed. 4.14 BASIC ORGANIZATION - ASSIGNED TITLES The following table depicts the distinctive title assigned to each element of the on-scene Fire Incident Command organization at each corresponding level, as well as the leadership title corresponding to each individual element. TABLE 4.2: ORGANIZATIONAL ELEMENT AND LEADERSHIP TITLE Organizational Element Leadership Title Branch Director Unified Command On-Scene Commander / Leads Page 13 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 4.15 REV. 00 Organizational Element Leadership Title Fire Command Fire Commander / Officer Division and Group Commander Sector Commander Task Force Leader Strike Team Leader Unit Leader Single Resource Boss BASIC ORGANIZATION - FIRE COMMAND STAFF A Fire Command Team is an organizational response to quickly provide enough command and control to rapidly bring a significant incident under control. The primary players in the Fire Command Team are the Fire Commander, Support Officer, and Safety Officer. The incident scene is often dynamic and intense. As the incident grows into and past the requirements of a 1st Alarm assignment, the Fire Commander can become overwhelmed with information management, assigning appliances, filling out and updating the incident briefing form, planning, forecasting, calling for additional resources, talking on the radio, and fulfilling all the other functions of Command. The immediate need of the Fire Commander at this point is additional operational support. The Support Officer should be introduced at all incidents in order to assist the Fire Commander in the management of the response. For minor incidents this task will usually be undertaken by the driver / pump operator, and for larger incidents Support Officer will be assigned to a Leading Firefighter or above Roles and Responsibilities of the Support Officer: • Providing and maintaining radio communication between the Fire Commander and the ECC. • Acting as the first contact point for all attending appliances and Officers and to maintain a physical record of resources in attendance. • Receive and maintain accountability boards/tags from appliances/personnel attending the incident. • Ensure that any personnel or appliances leaving the incident scene collect their accountability boards/tags. • Confirming that regular risk assessments are being carried out and that Tactical Mode messages are relayed to the ECC via main scheme radio approximately every twenty minutes up to the time of the “Stop Message”, and at regular intervals thereafter. The ECC will record the Tactical Mode on the Incident Log, hence, maintaining a record of the outcome of risk assessments and any reviews. • Assisting the Fire Commander in liaison with other agencies. • Directing attending appliances to an operating location or staging area as instructed by the Fire Commander and to record the status of all resources. • Record sector identifications and Officer’s duties as the assignments are made. • Assist with the incident briefing form, and personnel control and accountability. • Support in developing the incident action plan. • Other duties as necessary. Page 14 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 The Safety Officer is responsible for the safety of all personnel engaged in emergency operations and has the authority to stop any operations that are unsafe. Although, the Safety Officer has the authority to take action to prevent an unsafe situation, the Fire Commander has the ultimate responsibility for safety. The Safety Officer role may be expanded due to the size and complexity of the incident to have Safety Officers within each Sector. Roles and Responsibilities of the Sector Safety Officer: • Assess safety concerns within a sector • Manage accountability within the sector • Provide air management support within the sector • Manage work/rest cycles and rehab within the sector • Coordinate with other sector safety officers Safety Officers will be responsible for the following activities and for updating any Sector Commander they may be working alongside and/or the Fire Commander of any change in circumstances. • Identification of safety issues • Initiating corrective actions • Maintaining safe systems of work • Ensuring all personnel are wearing the appropriate levels of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) • Observing the environment • Monitoring the physical condition of personnel • Recording Risk Assessments 4.16 BASIC ORGANIZATION - COMMAND STRUCTURE It is the responsibility of the Fire Commander to develop an on-site organizational structure to effectively manage the incident scene. The development of the on-site structure should begin with deployment of the first arriving F&R resource, and continue through a number of phases, depending on the size and complexity of the incident. The on-site structure must develop at a pace which stays ahead of the tactical deployment of personnel and resources. In order for the Fire Commander to manage the incident, he must first be able to direct, control, and track the position and function of all resources. Building a Fire Incident Command structure is the best support mechanism the Fire Commander can use to achieve the harmonious balance between managing personnel and incident needs. Simply put, this means: • Large scale and complex incidents = Large command structure. • Small scale and "simple" incidents = Small command structure. The basic configuration of command includes three levels: • Strategic level - Overall direction of the incident. • Operational level - Objectives assigned to Division/Sectors • Tactical level - Task objectives assigned to Crews/Units. 4.17 BASIC ORGANIZATION - FIRE INCIDENT COMMAND STRUCTURE The basic Fire Incident Command structure combines all three levels of the command structure. The Station Officer on a 1st Alarm response to a minor emergency determines the overall direction, tactics, and supervises the crew doing the task. The basic structure for a Page 15 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 “routine” incident, involving a small number of appliances, requires only two levels of the command structure. The role of Fire Commander combines the strategic and operational level. Appliances deployed report directly to Fire Commander and operate at the Tactical Level. An example of the basic Fire Incident Command structure is as follow: FIGURE 4.1: BASIC FIRE INCIDENT COMMAND STRUCTURE 4.18 BASIC ORGANIZATION - SECTORS Complex emergency situations often exceed the capability of one Officer to effectively manage the entire operation. The Fire Commander should group stations and appliances to work in Sectors. Sectors reduce the span of control to more manageable smaller sized units. Sectors allow the Fire Commander to communicate principally with Sector Commanders, rather than multiple, individual crew officers, thus providing an effective Fire Incident Command structure and organization. Sectors are assigned by their geographic location (North Sector) or function (Water Supply Sector). FIGURE 4.2: BASIC COMMAND ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE 4.19 BASIC ORGANIZATION - SECTORS, BASIC OPERATIONAL APPROACH The use of Sectors in the Fire Incident Command structure provides a standard system to divide the incident scene into smaller subordinate command units or areas. Span of control is critical to effective and efficient incident management. Within IMS, the span of control of Page 16 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 any individual with incident management supervisory responsibility should range from three to seven subordinates. The number of Sectors that can be effectively managed by the Fire Commander varies. In fast moving complex operations, a span of control of no more than five Sectors is indicated. In slower moving, less complex operations, the Fire Commander may effectively manage more Sectors. Sectors procedures also provide an array of major functions which may be selectively implemented according to the needs of a particular situation. This places responsibility for the details and execution of each particular function on the Sector Commander. When effective Sectors and have been established, the Fire Commander can concentrate on overall strategy and resource allocation, allowing the Sector Commanders to manage his assigned crews. The Fire Commander determines overall direction and assigns tactical objectives and resources to the Sectors. Each Sector Commander is responsible for the tactical deployment of the resources at his disposal in order to complete the tactical objectives assigned by the Fire Commander. Sector Commanders are also responsible for communicating needs and progress to Fire Command. Most routine communications within a Sector should be conducted in a face-to-face (if possible) manner between Fire Commander and his Sector Commanders. This process reduces unnecessary radio traffic and increases the ability to transmit critical radio communications. The safety of firefighting personnel represents a major reason for establishing Sectors. Each Sector Commander must maintain communication with assigned crews to control both his position and function. The Sector Commander must constantly monitor all hazardous situations and risks to personnel. The Sector Commander must take appropriate action to ensure that crews are operating in a safe and effective manner. A significant problem occurs when the Fire Commander requests and assigns additional appliances at a rate that exceeds the development of the incident organization. In short, the Fire Commander will become overloaded with the details of managing a large number of appliances from different fire stations scattered all over the incident site. The Fire Commander will soon be in the odd situation of being overwhelmed, yet still in need of more resources to accomplish their tactical objectives. The Fire Commander should keep span of control to a minimum. Once effective Sectors have been established, the Fire Commander can concentrate on the management of the overall plan, evaluation, and resource allocation. Each of the Sector Commanders becomes responsible for the tactical deployment of the resources assigned to his Sector and communicating needs and progress back to Command. Utilizing Sectors provides the following advantages: • Reduces the Fire Commander’s span of control – divides the incident scene into more manageable units. • Creates more effective incident scene communications – permits the Fire Commander to exchange information with a limited number of individuals (Sector Commanders) who directly supervise teams of firefighters. This reduces overall radio Page 17 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 • • • REV. 00 traffic by allowing firefighters and Sector Commanders to communicate face to face instead of by radio. Provides a standard and logical system to divide large geographical incidents into effectively sized units – allows the Fire Commander to concentrate on strategy/tactics from Forward Command Post. Provides an array major support functions – these are to be selected and assigned according to the particular needs of each situation. The execution and details of these specific operations becomes the responsibility of the Sector Commander, not Fire Command. Improves firefighter safety – allows each Sector Commander to maintain more direct control of the position and function of the appliances assigned to their division at all times. Sector Commanders concentrate on their assigned areas and are in a position to move personnel based on incident conditions and the Fire Commander’s decisions. Fire Command should assign Sectors based on the following factors: 1. When the number of assigned and operating appliances threatens to overload the Fire Commander’s ability to command. Direct tactical−level control should be delegated (earlier than later) to Sector Commanders before the Fire Commander’s ability to manage is exceeded. 2. When the Fire Commander forecasts that the situation will become a major operation, soon exceeding his span of control. 3. When appliances from different fire stations are involved in complex operations (Large interior or geographic area, hazardous materials, technical rescues, etc.) 4. When appliances are operating from tactical positions which Fire Command has little or no direct control over (i.e., out of sight). 5. When the situation presents specials hazards and close control is required over operating appliances (i.e., unstable structural conditions, hazardous materials, heavy fire load, marginal offensive situations, etc.). When establishing a Sector, the Fire Commander will assign each Sector Officer: 1. Tactical Objectives. 2. A sector designation (e.g., Roof Sector, East Sector, etc.) 3. The identity of resources assigned to the Sector. Sectors will be regulated by the following guidelines: • It will be the ongoing responsibility of Fire Command to assign Sectors as required for effective emergency operations; this assignment will relate to both geographic and functional Sectors. • Command shall advise each Sector Commander of specific tactical objectives. The overall strategy and plan should also be provided (time permitting), so the Sector Commander has some idea of what's going on and how his assignment fits in. • Sectors assigned to specific operating areas will be designated by directions (East Sector, North Sector, etc.). Where the incident has odd geographic boundaries, it may be confusing to assign directional designations to Sectors (East Sector, etc.). An alternate use of Sector A, B, C, or D pronounced: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie and Delta respectively, may be used. Sector 'A' would be the front (street address side) of the building and the other Sectors would go clockwise around the building in alphabetical order. Page 18 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 In multi−story occupancies, Sectors will usually be indicated by floor numbers (Sector 7 indicates 7th floor). In some cases, the floor Sector identification may be subdivided into geographic areas such as "Sector 7 East" or " Sector 7 West" depending on stairwell and floor access. Functional Sectors will be identified by the function (Rescue & Fire Suppression Sector, Safety Sector, Water Supply Sector, etc.). Sector Commanders will use the Sector designation in radio communications (i.e. "North Sector to Command"). In many cases, the initial Sector responsibility will be given to the Station Officer / Sub-Officer who receives the initial assignment to a basic tactical position or function (north, treatment, roof, etc.). As the incident expands, more senior officers may be assigned Sector responsibilities. Regular Transfer of Command procedures will be followed in transferring Sector responsibility. In some cases, a Sector Commander may be assigned to an area/function initially to evaluate and report conditions and advise Fire Command of needed tasks and resources. The assigned commander will proceed to the Sector, evaluate, and report conditions to the Fire Commander, and assume responsibility for directing resources and operations within his assigned area of responsibility. The Sector Commander must be in a position to directly supervise and monitor operations. This will require the Sector Commander to be equipped with the appropriate PPE and equipment for his area of responsibility. Sector Commanders assigned to operate within the hazard zone must be accompanied by a partner. The Sector Commanders should be readily identifiable and maintain a visible position as much as possible. Sector Commanders will be responsible for the following basic functions: • Directly supervise work in the sector. • Monitor personnel safety, accountability, and rehabilitation. • Develop a sector plan that integrates with the overall plan. • Monitor work progress. • Redirect activities as necessary. • Coordinate actions with related activities, and adjacent Sectors. • Monitor rehabilitation of Sector personnel. • Request additional resources as needed (on−deck crews etc.). • Manage emergencies within the Sector. • Advise the Fire Commander of situation status, changing conditions, updated risk assessment, tactical progress, completion, and exception reports. • Re−allocate resources within the Sector. • Provide information for both formal and informal After−Action Reviews (critiques). • De−commit resources as operations are completed. The primary function of a ranking officer working within a Sector is to direct the operations of their crews in performing assigned tasks. Leading Firefighter/Sub-Officers will advise their Sector Commander of work progress, preferably face−to−face. All requests for additional resources or assistance within a Sector must be directed to the Sector Commander. Sector Commander will communicate with Fire Command and should provide an update every 20 minutes. Each Sector Commander will keep Fire Command informed of conditions and progress in the Sector through regular progress reports. The Sector Commander must prioritize progress reports to essential information only. Fire Command must be advised immediately Page 19 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 of significant changes, particularly those involving the ability or inability to complete an objective, hazardous conditions, accidents, structural collapse, etc. When a crew is assigned from Staging to an Operating Sector, the crew will be told what Sector and which Sector Commander they will be reporting to. The Sector Commander will be informed of which particular crews or units have been assigned by the Fire Commander. It is then the responsibility of the Sector Commander to contact the assigned resources to transmit any instructions relative to the specific action requested. Sector Commanders will monitor the condition of the crews operating in their Sector. Relief crews will be requested in a manner to safeguard the safety of personnel and maintain progress toward the Sector objectives. Sector Commanders will ensure an orderly and thorough reassignment of crews to Rehab Sector. Crews must report to rehab intact to facilitate accountability. FIGURE 4.3: EXAMPLE OF SECTOR DESIGNATION Fire Commander Support Officer Safety Officer orth Sector South Sector Staging Officer est Sector ast Sector Appliance Appliance Appliance Appliance Appliance A P Appliance Appliance Appliance A P A P ater Supply Sector Appliance Appliance 7 4.20 EXPANDING THE ORGANIZATION - DIVISIONS The Division level of the organization is designed to provide coordination between Sectors and Fire Command. Adding Divisions to the incident organization decreases the communication load on the Fire Commander. Division Commanders supervise and manage a number of Sector Commanders, and report to the Fire Commander. As the on-scene incident organization grows in complexity, and the span of control with Sectors is maximized, the Fire Command Team may determine that an additional intermediate level within the Fire Incident Command structure is needed. The Fire Command Team will be working from a Forward Command Post (the Tactical Command Vehicle) and the Fire Commander decides whether or not to expand the organization to include Divisions. Division Commanders will normally be utilized at very large−scale incidents that involve two or more major components (i.e., a large fire with a major evacuation). The Fire Commander may elect to assign Division Commanders as forward positions to coordinate the activities between Sectors. Page 20 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 Division Commanders manage and direct activities of Sector Commanders. Division Commanders operate on the Tactical Channel when sending or receiving information from Fire Command. The radio designation of Division Commanders should reflect the function or geographic area of the Division (for example: Fire Control Division, West Division, etc.). When Fire Command implements Division Commanders, the Fire Commander will assign a separate radio channel (not the tactical channel) for communications within the Division. Sector Commanders should be notified by Fire Command of their new commander. This information should include: • What Division the Sector is now assigned to? • The radio channel the Division (and Sector) is operating on. Radio Communications will then be directed from the Sector Commander to the Division Commander. Sector Commander will still use the radio designation of Fire Command when contacting their Division Commander. Sector Commanders will relay Division and radio channel information to the crews working in their Sector. Division Commander positions should be assigned to Station Commanders or Station Officers. Division Commander operate in forward positions from a Forward Command Vehicle (when feasible). In these situations, Fire Command must assign Officers in the FCP to monitor each Divisions radio channel. FIGURE 4.4: COMMUNICATION BETWEEN FIRE COMMANDER, DIVISIONS, AND SECTORS Tactical Channel Tactical Channel Tactical Channel Assigned Channel Assigned Channel Assigned Channel Assigned Channel est Sector Roof Sector orth Sector ast Sector South Sector ater Supply Sector Page 21 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 FIGURE 4.5: EXPANSION OF STRUCTURE TO INCLUDE DIVISONS Fire Command Fire Commander orth Sector South Sector Safety Officer est Sector Staging Officer Roof Sector Support Officer azmat Sector South vac Sector ast vac Sector Fire Command Fire Commander Fire Control Division orth Sector 4.21 South Sector est Sector Safety Officer Staging Officer Support Office r azmat Division Roof Sector azmat Sector nviron. Sector vac Division Decon Sector South vac Sector ast vac Sector EXPANDING THE ORGANIZATION - MAJOR OPERATIONS As a small incident escalates into a major incident, additional organizational support will be required, and the OSC may decide that an IMT should be requested to mobilize. When the IMT is mobilized, and functional, the control of the incident shall be transferred from on-scene to the IMT. Additionally, the Incident Support Team from QatarEnergy will be stood up. F&R shall provide a representative to the IST to fill a position in the Operations Page 22 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 Section if requested by the Incident Support Team Director (ISTD). The F&R representative will normally be the Operations Chief or a Branch Director under the Operations Section. If an AO stands-up their IMT they will define the strategic objectives. The Operations Section of the AO IMT will then communicate tactical priorities to the on-site OSC/ Unified Command. Even if the tactical priorities come from the AO, QatarEnergy F&R remain accountable for its personnel, including their safety. When an incident occurs in a common area and the IST is stood-up, they decide the strategic objectives, and tactical priorities communicated to Fire Commander via Operations Section. It is the responsibility of the Fire Commander to decide how to use the resources under his command to achieve those tactical priorities. The responsibilities of the F&R Representative to the Operations Section may be, but not limited to the following: • Advising the ISTD of the situation on-scene (i.e. nature & extent of the emergency). • Advising the ISTD of the resources that are being requested from the Fire Commander on-scene and whether they need to be obtained from outside of the city (from Qatar Civil Defence (QCD), Internal Security Forces (ISF) and the other QatarEnergy Industrial Cities). • Define the resources to requested from the National Command Centre (NCC) via QCD and ISF. • Requesting resources from the other QatarEnergy Industrial Cities. • Coordinating with the Staging Area Officers on the arrival and status of assets. • Upon arrival to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) advice the Fire Commander of a telephone/radio where he can be reached. • Coordinate activities and communicate tactical objectives to Fire Commander. • Decide together with Fire Commander whether or not to expand or split the incident on-site organization. • Manage Operations Section activities. • Develop operations portion of IAP The F&R Representative will communicate primarily with: • Incident Support Team Director • Fire Commander at the scene • Staging Area Officers Once the Operations Section is in place and functioning, the Fire Commander’s focus should be on the overall plan and other incident related issues. The Incident Commander will provide direction, advice, and guidance to the Operations Section in directing the tactical aspects of the incident. Therefore, the Fire Commander shall: • • • • Review and evaluate the plan and initiate any needed changes. Decide how to address tactical priorities Provide on-going review to the overall incident (the big picture). Review the organizational structure, initiate any changes or expansion to meet incident needs. Page 23 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 • • • REV. 00 Initiate Division and Sector functions as required Collect and provide information for Post Response Evaluation Other duties as necessary. FIGURE 4.6: EXAMPLE OF F&R HAVING PRIMACY OF COMMAND Incident Support Team Command Operations iaison Safety Planning ogistics Finance Admin On Site Team Fire Command IST is mobilized and Fire Command receives directions from Operations Section. Page 24 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 FIGURE 4.7: EXAMPLE WHEN AO HAS PRIMACY OF COMMMAND Incident Management Team Asset Command iaison(s) Safety iaison(s) Operations Operations Incident Support Team Support Team Command Planning ogistics Planning Safety ogistics Finance Admin Finance Admin On Site Team Management by Objectives AO OSC eads Other Fire Commander Safety Division AO Process Division AO S Division Other Division F R IMT and IST mobilized. Fire Commander establishes Unified Command with AO OSC and Other Leads. IMT provides the overall direction and tactical priorities to Unified Command. IST support IMT with resources/advice and communicates with Fire Commander 4.22 STAGING Staging is implemented when the Fire Commander determines the need to have additional resources in close proximity to the incident location. Staging is reserved for available resources that are ready for assignment. The incident area will be divided into two staging areas to which resources will report. • Level 1 Staging Area • Level 2 Staging Area 4.22.1 Level 1 Staging The Level 1 Staging Area will be established in close proximity to the incident (at Emergency Services Reporting Point (ESPR) if available), from where resources will be committed to the incident, based upon a Dynamic Risk Assessment (DRA). In RLIC and MIC designated locations have been pre-defined as Level 1 Staging Areas. The Level 1 Staging Area shall be supervised and controlled by a Staging Area Officer that will be in direct radio communication with the Tactical Command Vehicle (TCV) at the FCP. Depending on the nature and size of the incident, the Level 1 Staging Area may contain support services as well including the Firefighter Rehabilitation Unit, Breathing Apparatus servicing area, and refuelling services. Page 25 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 4.22.2 Level 1 Staging Officer The Level 1 Staging Area will be supervised by the Level 1 Staging Area Officer who will be responsible for the overall control. The role will typically be filled by a Station-Officer or SubOfficer. Level 1 Staging Area Officer will be responsible for the following: • Directing attending appliances from the Level 1 Staging Area to an incident operating location as instructed by the Fire Commander and to record the status of all resources • Overseeing all resources placed under his supervision • Establishing a line of communication with the Forward Command Post • Keeping record of all resources that arrive at the Level 1 Staging Area • Dispatching and recording all resources as requested by the Forward Control Post • Monitoring the flow of resources entering and exiting the staging area • Updating the Fire Commander on the level of resources in the staging area 4.22.3 Level 2 Staging Area Level 2 Staging Areas will be established when resources from outside the city is required either from QatarEnergy industrial Cities or government agencies. Level 2 Staging Areas have been assigned in all locations where equipment and resources required to respond to a given incident can be collated and dispatched accordingly. All mutual aid resources required from the government agencies or other QatarEnergy Industrial Cities shall report to and be coordinated forward from this area. To avoid confusion and to ensure that the oncoming resources are not delayed to the incident General Directorate of Industrial Security (GDIS) will escort all external resources from the gates to Level 2 Staging Area and onwards to the Level 1 Staging Area in RLIC and MIC. Depending on the nature of the incident and the weather conditions at the time, an area which has not been pre-designated may have to be used as an alternative Level 2 Staging Area. The following points must be taken into consideration when determining an alternate location for a Level 2 Staging Area: • Type of incident • Wind direction • Accessibility to the incident • Space for equipment that may be deployed • Space for personnel that may be required • Space for holding multiple vehicles and allowing for adequate manoeuvrability 4.22.4 Level 2 Staging Officer The Level 2 Staging Area will be supervised by the Level 2 Staging Area Officer who will be responsible for the overall control. The role will typically be filled by a Station-Officer or SubOfficer. Level 2 Staging Area Officer will be responsible for the following: • Establishing a line of communication with the Forward Command Post. • Establishing a line of communication with the Assistant Staging Area Officers. • Keeping a log of all resources that arrive at the staging area. Page 26 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 • • • • • • REV. 00 Dispatching and recording all resources as requested by the Fire Commander at the Forward Control Post. Monitoring the flow of resources entering and exiting the staging area. Updating the Operations Section on the level of resources in the staging area. Maintaining a minimum level of resources determined by the Fire Commander. Responding to requests for personnel and equipment at the incident site. Request support to assist with the set up and running of the Base/Resource area. Other agencies and service representatives, known as Assistant Staging Area Officers, will coordinate with the Staging Officer. These Assistant Staging Officers will be accountable for their respective equipment and personnel. Assistant Staging Area Officers shall be responsible for the following: • Establishing a line of communication with the Staging Area Officer. • Overseeing all resources placed under his supervision. Depending on the nature and size of the incident, the Level 2 Staging Area may contain support services as well. These services will be supervised by the designated Assistant Staging Area Officer who will report to the Staging Area Officer. The service areas overseen by the Assistant Staging Area Officer shall consist of: • Fluid and food replacement • Sanitation services • Rest & Ventilation (rest area and misting fans or shelter as appropriate). • Rehab area • Breathing apparatus servicing area • Refuelling area 4.22.5 Staging - Communication Communication is a vital component of responding properly to any given incident. The Level 1 Staging Area Officer shall be in constant contact with the Forward Command Post, so he can service the request for equipment and manpower, etc. They will also need to be in constant communication with the Level 2 Staging Area Officer. The radio fleet map should be used for communication. The pre-defined channel as detailed on the radio fleet map, should be used for communication between the Staging Area Officers and the TCV and the EOC. Page 27 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 4.22.6 L2 Staging Areas MIC Mesaieed has one L2 staging area at Fire Station 1 outside the Industrial City fence line. FIGURE 4.8: STAGING AREA MIC 4.22.7 L2 Staging Areas RLIC Ras Laffan has two L2 staging areas - on at the Commercial Complex and one at the Port Admin Building. Both are inside the Industrial City Fence Line. FIGURE 4.9: STAGING AREAS RAS LAFFAN Page 28 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 4.22.8 L2 Staging Areas DCA Dukhan has two L2 staging areas - one in the north on the highway west bound to Dukhan and one in the south at Umm Bab fire station. FIGURE 4.10: STAGING AREAS DUKHAN Umm Bab Fire Station Staging Area 4.23 REHABILITATION (REHAB) The purpose of incident ground rehabilitation is to minimize firefighter injury and illness from stress, fatigue, and dehydration by providing relief from hot environments, physical and mental rest, food and fluids, health monitoring, and treatment if required. The Fire Commander should consider rehabilitation during the initial planning stages of an emergency response. However, the climatic or environmental conditions of the emergency scene should not be the sole justification for establishing a rehab area. Any activity/incident, including training, that is large, long in duration and/or labour-intensive will rapidly deplete the energy and strength of personnel and therefore merits consideration for rehabilitation. A formal rehab area can be considered to be established at all emergencies of a significant physical nature in which the Fire Commander may reasonably expect that the work interval will last longer than 15 minutes. Rehab can also be considered to be established at training exercises outdoors and at times when physical exertion can reasonably be expected to impact the members. Exercises need to be risk assessed and conducted in accordance with heat and humidity index. Page 29 of 253 CLASSIFICATION: C1 - CONTROLLED MANUAL FOR FIRE & RESCUE OPERATIONS DOC NO: VI-FRE-MAN-003 REV. 00 The Fire Commander will normally designate the location for the rehab area early during an incident based on the site characteristics and designations as listed below: • It should be in a loc