What is the responsibility of the Shift Commander during an incident?

The responsibility of the Shift Commander during an incident primarily involves overseeing the operations and ensuring effective command structure is in place. By working under the current Incident Commander (IC) or assuming command when necessary, the Shift Commander helps maintain operational continuity and effectiveness. This role is vital during an emergency response to ensure that all teams are following established protocols and safety measures.

The Shift Commander supports the IC by managing the personnel on their shift, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately, and addressing any immediate concerns that may arise. In situations where the IC is unable to continue in their role, the Shift Commander is prepared to take over command, which ensures that there's no disruption in leadership during critical moments.

While other responsibilities, such as leading the Safety Officer team, coordinating logistics with external agencies, and establishing evacuation routes, are important, they are typically delegated tasks that fall under the larger umbrella of command and coordination handled by the Shift Commander.