What is the primary contribution of the ISO to the Incident Action Plan (IAP)?

The primary contribution of the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) to the Incident Action Plan (IAP) focuses on addressing life-safety concerns for responders and the public. This responsibility highlights the ISO’s critical role in ensuring the health and safety of personnel involved in an incident response.

The ISO evaluates the hazards and risks associated with the incident scene, implements safety protocols, and provides guidance on appropriate measures to protect everyone involved. This includes identifying potential safety hazards and developing strategies to mitigate risks, ensuring that safety is a top priority throughout the incident.

While other responsibilities related to the IAP exist, such as determining which forms to include or creating supporting documents, the foremost duty of the ISO is to safeguard lives—making it vital for effective incident management. This role is increasingly essential in complex incidents where multiple agencies may respond, and clear communication about safety measures can greatly influence the overall effectiveness of the incident response.