How many Incident Safety Officers (ISOs) are required at the site of a rope rescue?

The requirement for having one Incident Safety Officer per sector or each geographic location is rooted in the need for adequate safety oversight during complex rope rescue operations. Each sector of the incident may have unique hazards and risks, necessitating dedicated oversight to ensure compliance with safety protocols. When multiple locations or sectors are involved, having a dedicated ISO for each one promotes a more focused approach to safety, allowing for prompt identification and mitigation of potential dangers specific to each area.

In a large or multi-sector rescue scenario, one ISO may struggle to maintain situational awareness across various locations, which could lead to oversights in safety measures. By designating an ISO to each sector, organizations can ensure that safety is prioritized in every operational area, allowing for better communication of risks and more efficient management of safety protocols.

This structuring not only enhances the overall safety of the rescue operation but also reinforces the vital role of having designated personnel responsible for monitoring and addressing safety concerns in their respective sectors.