Task Force Team Position Descriptions

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SAFETY OFFICER

Position Description

The Task Force Team Safety Officer is responsible for monitoring and assessing the safety aspects of the Task Force Team during incident operations. The Safety Officer reports directly to the Task Force Team Leader.

Description of Duties

The Task Force Team Safety Officer is responsible for:

• Overseeing all health and safety aspects of the Task Force Team response and the fitness and welfare of Task Force Team personnel.
• This includes the personal safety at the POD; in transit, vehicles used during transit, at layover sites, the POA/Mobilization Center/Reception Center, at the Base of Operations, and the operational work sites and patient safety.
• All roles will be evaluated to assure that optimal safety and injury prevention is being practiced at all times. This is particularly important for camp set-up and function, respiratory and other protective equipment at the work sites, safe operation of motor vehicles and tools and other considerations.
• In cooperation with the Medical Team Manager, investigating, completing, and forwarding all reports in regards to personnel injuries and illnesses to the appropriate organization.
• Preventing injuries and illnesses among the Task Force Team members.
• Immediate intervention of activities to prevent the loss of life and prevention of injuries.
• Preparing and maintaining entry permits, records, and reports.
• Developing and implementing the safety component of the Task Force Action Plan.
• Performing additional tasks or duties as assigned during a mission.
• Accountability, maintenance, and minor repairs for all issued equipment.
• Adhering to all safety procedures.

Position Requirements and Criteria

Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Task Force Team Safety Officers in the Urban Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select functional managers capable of effectively managing and supervising the safety function in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories:

Knowledge
Skills
Abilities

Knowledge

1. Must possess an awareness of public health and industrial hygiene considerations

2. Must have knowledge of field sanitation procedures

3. Must have completed of First Responder Operations Level for Hazardous Materials as per OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response

4. Awareness of the applicable OSHA standards.

5. Must have knowledge of the principles of risk management.

6. Must have completed the FEMA Structural Collapse Technician Course which includes all of the pre-requisites.

7. Must have completed a basic incident safety officer’s training course.

8. Must have completed a basic training course in incident management stress.

Skills (see general requirements)

Ability

1. Must be able to analyze data.

2. Must be able to effectively communicate orally and in writing.

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