In an expanding incident, who performs the functions of Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration?

The functions of Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration in an expanding incident are carried out by the General Staff. This group is responsible for the different functional areas crucial to managing the incident effectively.

The Operations Section focuses on the tactical response and building the action plans necessary for addressing the immediate needs of the incident. The Planning Section is tasked with developing and documenting the incident action plans based on the information and needs as they evolve. The Logistics Section ensures that the necessary resources and support services—such as personnel, equipment, and facilities—are provided to meet operational needs. Finally, the Finance/Administration Section manages all financial and administrative aspects of the incident, including tracking costs and coordinating payments.

This structure is fundamental to the organization of incidents, especially in complex situations where coordination among various teams is vital. The General Staff’s delineation of responsibilities allows for clear communication and effective resource management in a chaotic environment, ensuring that all critical areas of incident management are addressed comprehensively.

In contrast, the Command Staff typically involves specific leadership roles that provide oversight and support to the General Staff, without performing the operational duties themselves. Field Teams usually focus on specific tasks or areas within the larger incident framework and might report to the Operations Section. Emergency Response Teams