Postincident Safety Management

8-1

Chapter 8

Learning Objectives

• List the safety and health consideration when terminating an incident.

• Describe the demobilization process.• Compare the concepts of first in/last out with first

in/first out.• Explain the need and the process used for

postincident analysis.

Cont. 8-2

Learning Objectives

• List the components of a postincident analysis.• Describe the advantages of a critical incident stress

management program. • List the key components in a critical incident stress

management program.

8-3

Introduction

• Postincident safety and health can be overlooked if not integrated into the total safety and health program

• Responders tend to let their guard down after the incident is over

• Safety during this phase should be emphasized and committed to as part of the program

• Firefighter Life Safety Initiative 13 is the focus for this chapter

8-4

Incident Termination

• Demobilization– Evaluate the on-scene resources– Compare resources with the current situation– First-in/last-out – Standardized apparatus and equipment– Fresh crews – Check equipment and stock after a call

Cont. 8-5

Incident Termination

• Returning to station– Injuries do occur – First chance to discuss incident– Supervisor should be alert for

signs of fatigue – Check responders after incidents– Ensure well being

8-6

Postincident Analysis

• Components the PIA should focus on:– Resources– Procedures– Equipment– Operational effectiveness

• Informal discussion• Formal discussion• Direct relationship between PIA, SOPS, training, and operations

8-7

Relationship of PIA, SOPs, Training, and Operations

8-8

Critical Incident Stress Management

• CISM team characteristics– Regionalization– A mental health professional as a team member– Nonpartisan– Received appropriate training in CISM– Confidentiality and relative anonymity are vital elements

Cont. 8-9

Critical Incident Stress Management

• CISM process– Peer defusing– Formal debriefing – On-site defusing– Demobilization

• Necessary component– Safety and health

programs

8-10

Summary

• Do not overlook safety and health after the incident– Hazards at the scene– Personal stress management– Postincident analysis (PIA)– Critical incident stress management (CISM)

• All personnel must be aware of available CISM programs

• Many essential safety and health program functions occur after the incident itself

8-11