The role of the ISO is crucial in ensuring what aspect at incidents involving structural collapse?

The critical role of the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) in incidents involving structural collapse primarily revolves around the assessment of incident-related risks. This responsibility is crucial because, during a structural collapse, the environment presents numerous hazards not only to the trapped victims but also to the responding personnel. The ISO must identify these risks, which can include unstable structures, the potential for secondary collapses, environmental dangers, and other factors that could jeopardize the safety of both victims and rescuers.

By thoroughly assessing these risks, the ISO contributes to an informed and strategic approach to incident management, ensuring that any actions taken are based on a clear understanding of the dangers present. This assessment allows the ISO to provide appropriate recommendations and guidance concerning operational tactics, resource allocation, and the implementation of safety measures to protect everyone involved. Ultimately, this proactive risk assessment is fundamental to maintaining safety throughout the incident response phase, making it a priority for the ISO at such critical moments.