In a large-scale incident with injuries and fatalities, who is likely the best discussion leader for a post-incident analysis meeting?

The best discussion leader for a post-incident analysis meeting in a large-scale incident with injuries and fatalities is likely the Health and Safety Officer (HSO) at the department, even if they were not on shift during the incident. The HSO's primary role encompasses assessing and overseeing safety protocols, conducting hazard assessments, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Their expertise in safety management allows them to provide an objective and comprehensive evaluation of the incident, focusing on the safety aspects that need to be addressed.

Leading such a meeting requires a professional who can look at the incident from a broader safety perspective and is versed in the procedures and policies that govern incident response. The HSO can facilitate discussions that may involve sensitive topics, such as injuries or fatalities, and guide the team in identifying areas for improvement without the emotional involvement that others, like the Incident Commander or those directly involved in the incident, may experience.

In contrast, while the Incident Commander, the ISO, and those who were injured may have valuable insights to share, their immediate connection to the incident may influence their objectivity or ability to lead the analysis effectively.