Which Nims Command And Coordination Structures Are Offsite Locations

Which NIMS Command and Coordination Structures are Offsite Locations?

The National Incident Management System (NIMS) provides a consistent framework for managing incidents of all types and sizes. A key aspect of NIMS is its flexible approach to command and coordination structures, adaptable to the specific needs of an incident. While many command and coordination structures operate from the incident site, certain circumstances necessitate the establishment of offsite locations. Understanding which structures might be located offsite and why is crucial for effective incident management.

Understanding NIMS Command and Coordination Structures

Before delving into offsite locations, let's briefly review the core command and coordination structures within NIMS:

1. Incident Command System (ICS): The On-Scene Hub

The ICS is the cornerstone of NIMS, providing a standardized, on-scene organizational structure. Its key components include:

• Incident Commander (IC): The overall leader responsible for all incident activities. Usually on-site.
• Command Staff: Supports the IC, including the Public Information Officer (PIO), Safety Officer, and Liaison Officer. Typically on-site, but certain roles might have offsite components.
• General Staff: Manages the functional areas of operations, planning, logistics, and finance/administration. Primarily on-site.
• Branch: Established when the incident becomes complex, managing multiple divisions or groups. Primarily on-site, but logistical coordination might extend offsite.
• Division/Group: Divides geographic areas or functional assignments within a branch. Primarily on-site.
• Unit: The lowest level of ICS organization, performing specific tasks. Usually on-site.

2. Multiagency Coordination System (MACS): Facilitating Collaboration

MACS focuses on coordinating the activities of multiple agencies and organizations during an incident. While it often works closely with the on-site ICS, certain elements can operate offsite:

• MAC Group: The central coordinating body, bringing together representatives from various agencies. While a physical location might be established, significant coordination can happen remotely.
• Area Command: Used for large-scale incidents spanning multiple jurisdictions, often requiring offsite coordination for resource allocation and interagency communication.
• Joint Information Center (JIC): A centralized location for disseminating information to the public and media. Often established offsite for better accessibility and to protect the incident site.

Why Offsite Locations are Necessary

Several reasons dictate the establishment of offsite command and coordination locations:

• Safety and Security: Removing command personnel from a hazardous or unstable incident scene protects key decision-makers and ensures continuity of operations. Toxic spills, structural collapse, or active shooter situations exemplify scenarios where offsite command is crucial.
• Resource Management: Managing resources efficiently often requires a location separate from the chaotic incident scene. Offsite locations offer a calmer environment for tracking equipment, personnel, and supplies, allowing for better logistical coordination.
• Communication and Technology: Offsite locations facilitate reliable communication with multiple agencies and stakeholders. They may house advanced communication technology (satellites, redundant systems) which might be unavailable or unreliable at the incident site.
• Staging Areas: The pre-positioning of resources requires designated staging areas which might be located offsite, awaiting deployment to the incident scene. Effective coordination of these staging areas necessitates an offsite command element.
• Public Information and Media Relations: The Joint Information Center (JIC) is often located offsite to ensure effective public information dissemination while keeping the incident site secure.
• Long-Term Operations: For prolonged incidents, establishing a more permanent offsite command post ensures personnel can maintain operational effectiveness without the stresses and challenges of an on-site environment. This helps prevent burnout and maintains continuity.

Specific Structures Likely to be Offsite

Several NIMS structures and functions are more prone to operating from offsite locations:

• Joint Information Center (JIC): As mentioned earlier, the JIC's role in communicating with the public and media strongly suggests an offsite location. This keeps the primary incident scene focused on response efforts.
• Multiagency Coordination Group (MAC Group): The coordination role of the MAC Group often benefits from an offsite location, facilitating better interaction between diverse agencies without interfering with the on-scene ICS.
• Area Command: For incidents spanning wide geographical areas, an Area Command might need to establish multiple offsite locations to manage different sectors efficiently.
• Support Functions of the General Staff: Logistics, especially in large-scale incidents, requires extensive coordination and tracking. An offsite location may house the logistical support function for better tracking and management of resources.
• Strategic Communications: Effective communication across multiple levels – local, state, federal, and even international – necessitates a dedicated offsite communications center, enabling seamless information flow.
• Emergency Operations Center (EOC): While not strictly part of ICS, the EOC is vital for coordinating resources and supporting the on-scene efforts. Often, EOCs operate from a pre-designated location separate from the immediate incident scene.

Considerations for Offsite Operations

Establishing effective offsite operations requires careful planning and coordination:

• Communication Systems: Reliable and redundant communication systems are paramount. This includes secure voice and data networks, allowing seamless information sharing between on-site and off-site teams.
• Technology and Infrastructure: Access to computers, mapping software, situational awareness displays, and other technological tools is crucial for informed decision-making.
• Personnel and Training: Personnel assigned to offsite locations should receive training in relevant NIMS components and technologies. Understanding their role within the overall incident management structure is vital.
• Security: Security protocols for offsite locations need to be robust, protecting sensitive information and ensuring the safety of personnel.
• Logistics: Transportation of personnel, equipment, and supplies between the incident site and offsite locations needs to be efficiently planned and managed.

Conclusion: Adaptability is Key

The flexibility of NIMS allows for a dynamic approach to incident management. Determining whether a command or coordination structure operates on-site or off-site is a crucial tactical decision based on the specific demands of the incident. By understanding the reasons for offsite locations and the structures most likely to be deployed there, incident commanders can ensure effective response and resource management in any situation. Proper planning and robust communication are essential to the successful implementation of offsite command and coordination structures, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the incident management process. The ability to adapt to different scenarios and utilize the full spectrum of NIMS capabilities is essential for successful incident management.