Which General Staff member directs management of all incident-related operational activities to achieve the incident objectives?
A. Operations Section Chief
B. Planning Division Director
C. Tactics Section Chief
D. Planning Section Chief
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: A. Operations Section Chief
Explanation:
In the Incident Command System (ICS), the Operations Section Chief is the General Staff member who directs the management of all incident-related operational activities. This role is central to achieving the tactical objectives outlined in the Incident Action Plan (IAP).
The ICS is a standardized approach to the command, control, and coordination of emergency response. It includes five major functional areas: Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration.
Role of the Operations Section Chief:
The Operations Section Chief (OSC) is responsible for:
- Developing and implementing strategy and tactics to carry out the incident objectives.
- Organizing, assigning, and supervising the resources (both personnel and equipment) needed to carry out operational activities.
- Coordinating directly with functional units such as law enforcement, fire suppression, emergency medical services, and search and rescue teams.
- Ensuring that field operations are safe, efficient, and aligned with the overall goals established by the Incident Commander (IC).
Why the other options are incorrect:
- B. Planning Division Director: This is not a standard ICS title. The correct ICS position is Planning Section Chief, who is responsible for collecting, evaluating, and disseminating incident information and developing the Incident Action Plan—not for managing operations.
- C. Tactics Section Chief: This is not an official ICS position. Tactics are developed within the Planning Section, but they are implemented by the Operations Section Chief.
- D. Planning Section Chief: This person supports the incident by creating plans and documentation, not by overseeing real-time operations in the field.
In conclusion, the Operations Section Chief holds the critical responsibility for executing the incident response plan and managing on-the-ground actions that directly impact the resolution of the emergency.
