What should you receive work assignments from, based on unity of command?

The principle of unity of command is a key element in incident management, particularly within the Incident Command System (ICS). This principle ensures that each individual involved in the incident response reports to one designated supervisor, preventing confusion and miscommunication.

Receiving work assignments only from your ICS supervisor creates clear lines of authority and responsibility, essential for effective decision-making and coordination during an incident. The ICS supervisor has a comprehensive understanding of your role within the larger incident response framework and can provide specific direction tailored to your position and the needs of the incident. This clarity helps streamline operations and enhances overall efficiency, allowing for a more effective response to the situation at hand.

While the Incident Commander and other leaders may provide overarching strategy and support, direct assignments should come through your immediate supervisor to uphold the cohesion and operational structure dictated by unity of command. This prevents the potential chaos that could arise if multiple leaders issue conflicting instructions to the same individual, thereby reinforcing the importance of clear communication and accountability in incident management.