NIMS/ICS Planning
The National Incident Management System (NIMS), as a universally accepted approach, empowers stakeholders across public and private sectors to prepare for, respond to, and recover from incidents that impact their operations. Meanwhile, the Incident Command System (ICS) offers an invaluable mechanism to seamlessly coordinate responses, especially in scenarios involving diverse resources, jurisdictions, and incidents of significant magnitude. Our consultants are qualified to provide NIMS and ICS planning, whether it involves a meticulous evaluation of existing systems or the formulation of strategic frameworks to establish these systems. Learn how AcuTech can assist you in navigating the complexities of the NIMS and ICS.
AcuTech has developed a unique background in emergency management, spanning an array of critical areas such as emergency response planning, evacuation procedures, COOP planning, business continuity strategies, crisis management, chemical process safety, design, operations, inherent safety measures, fire protection, risk management, and security protocols. With our comprehensive understanding of the latest emergency management and homeland security standards, coupled with industry best practices such as the National Incident Management System and Incident Command System, we stand ready to assist in navigating the complexities of this crucial field. We offer practical and cost-effective solutions to effectively manage operational risks. Engage with AcuTech and explore the extensive range of services we offer in incident management.
- Evaluation of existing incident management and command systems
- Development and implementation of incident management and command systems
- Testing incident management and command systems
- Developing tabletop and full-scale exercises to test plan functionality
- Advising on NIMS/ICS best practices, planning, and implementation
AcuTech’s consultants are well versed in codes and standards developed by industry bodies and will refer to these as well as each client’s local jurisdiction codes and standards. A sampling of the relevant codes and standards can be found below.
- NFPA 1600: Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity/Continuity of Operations Programs (BCM/COOP): Published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NFPA 1600 provides a comprehensive framework for disaster and emergency management, including continuity of operations. It is often referenced in NIMS/ICS planning to enhance preparedness and response efforts.
- National Incident Management System (NIMS): Published by United States Department of Homeland Security. It is a comprehensive approach to incident management that is applicable at all jurisdictional levels and across functional disciplines. NIMS is applicable across a full spectrum of potential incidents and hazard scenarios, regardless of size or complexity. The Incident Command System (ICS) is a component of NIMS and provides a standardized all-hazards, all incident approach to any incident that allows multiple resources to work together.
- FEMA Incident Command System (ICS): ICS is a standardized, on-scene, all-hazard incident management concept designed to enable effective, efficient, and collaborative incident management. This system provides a common hierarchy within which responders from multiple agencies can be effective. ICS is used for a wide range of emergencies, from small incidents to large, complex disasters. It facilitates coordination between various jurisdictions and disciplines, ensuring that responses are organized and comprehensive.
- API RP 780: Management of Hazards Associated with Location of Process Plant Portable Buildings: Issued by the American Petroleum Institute (API), this Recommended Practice focuses on managing hazards related to the location of portable buildings in process plant facilities. It is relevant to the ICS planning process, particularly in addressing physical infrastructure considerations during incidents.
- ANSI/ISA-62443 Series: Industrial Network and System Security Standards: Developed by the International Society of Automation (ISA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI), this series of standards addresses the cybersecurity aspects of industrial automation and control systems. In NIMS/ICS planning, incorporating these standards is essential to safeguard critical infrastructure against cyber threats.
- ASME B31Q: Standard for Pipeline Personnel Qualification: The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) publishes this standard to establish the requirements for qualification of personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of pipeline facilities. Adhering to this standard is crucial for ensuring personnel competency in the context of incident response.
- OSHA 1910.119: Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard outlines requirements for the management of highly hazardous chemicals. Integrating these guidelines into NIMS/ICS planning is essential for addressing chemical process safety and emergency response in the process industries.