An incident management system should be established when?

An incident management system is essential for coordinating the response to a hazardous materials incident. The effective establishment of this system begins when the first responding unit arrives on the scene. This is because the initial responders are in the best position to assess the situation quickly and begin the necessary actions to manage the incident. It is critical that a structured approach is employed from the moment they arrive to ensure that all subsequent actions are organized, communications are clear, and resources are allocated efficiently.

This early establishment of an incident management system helps to coordinate efforts between various responders, ensures that safety protocols are followed, and allows for the proper assessment and prioritization of actions needed to address the hazardous conditions. By initiating the system as soon as the first unit arrives, responders can prevent confusion and ensure that all personnel and activities are aligned with the established procedures for managing hazardous situations effectively.