During which phase of incident management are hazards assessed and responded to?

During the incident phase of incident management, hazards are actively assessed and responded to. This phase occurs while the incident is ongoing, and it involves real-time evaluation of risks that may emerge as the situation evolves. Emergency responders work to identify and mitigate immediate threats to life, property, and the environment. They perform evaluations of hazardous materials, potential exposure scenarios, and environmental impacts as they address the incident.

In this phase, the focus is not only on recognizing existing hazards but also on adjusting the response strategies in real-time based on the dynamic nature of the incident. This timely assessment is crucial for making informed decisions to ensure the safety of both the responders and the public. Effective hazard assessment during the incident phase allows for coordinated response efforts and the implementation of control measures crucial for managing the situation effectively.

Other phases, such as the pre-incident phase, involve planning and preparation, while the post-incident phase focuses on recovery and evaluation after the event has concluded. The risk assessment phase typically refers to systematic approaches to evaluate hazards but does not specify the action taken during an active incident. Thus, these phases do not encompass the immediate assessment and response that happens during the incident itself.