#114 Duties of the Safety Officer
The Incident Safety Officer (ISO) is a member of the "Command Staff." The ISO is an additional set of eyes and ears for the Incident Commander. This individuals responsibility is to assess and/or anticipate hazardous and unsafe situations, and work with the IC to manage the risks that firefighters take at emergencies. Any firefighter on your department may be assigned as the ISO as long as he or she has knowledge of the current potential safety and health hazards involved in firefighting activities and is skilled in recognizing both imminent and non-imminent hazards. (note: Some States require specific certifications for individuals who are assigned to this position).
An Imminent Hazard is a condition that is judged to present an IMMEDIATE danger to Firefighters that is so urgent and severe that it requires immediate corrective or preventive action. When imminent hazards are identified, the ISO shall have the authority to immediately correct the situation by altering, suspending, or terminating these activities. The ISO shall also inform the IC of any actions taken to correct imminent hazards at an emergency scene.
A Non-Imminent Hazard is a condition that is judged to be a danger to Firefighters, but is not of an urgent or severe nature and does not require immediate corrective or preventive action. When non-imminent hazards are identified, the ISO shall correct the situation as soon as possible.
Frank Viscuso is a career deputy chief from Hudson County, NJ, one of the most densely populated counties in the country. He is a contributor to Fire Engineering magazine and the author of five books including the best-selling tactical textbook Fireground Operational Guides (with Mike Terpak), and his popular leadership development book titled Step Up and Lead. Frank is also a certified fire instructor and highly sought after speaker. Over the past decade he has spoken to audiences in and outside the fire service on many topics that include leadership, team building, officer development, and customer service. His Leadership Development program is designed to introduce people to the top traits associated with fire service leaders and to equip them with the skills needed to lead, inspire, and motivate their teams. These traits and skills are featured in his book, Step Up and Lead.
Frank resides in New Jersey and can be reached by cell: (973) 981-1505, email: frank@commonvalor.com, or through the website www.frankviscuso.com.