Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Task Force/SAR Team Safety Officers in the Domestic and International 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 have completed the NIIMS Basic ICS Course (I-200), or equivalent.
2. Must possess an awareness of public health and industrial hygiene considerations.
3. Must have knowledge of field sanitation procedures.
4. Must have knowledge of First Responder Operations Level for Hazardous Materials as per OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
5. Basic awareness of the applicable OSHA standards.
6. Must have knowledge of the principles of risk management.
7. Must have completed Rescue Systems I and II.
8. Must have completed the FEMA Rescue Specialist Course.
9. Must have completed a basic training course in confined space rescue.
10. Must have a demonstrated working knowledge of confined space operations as outlined in the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.146 Permit Required Confined Spaces.
11. Must have completed a basic incident safety officer's training course.
12. Must have completed a basic training course in incident management stress.

Skills

1. See general requirements.

Abilities

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

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to Task Force/SAR Team Planning Officers in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select functional managers capable of effectively managing and supervising the planning 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 have Incident Command System training in one or more of the following areas: Situation Status Unit Leader, Resource Status Unit Leader, Documentation, Demobilization, or Plans Chief.
2. Must possess an awareness of other disaster response organizations.
3. Knowledgeable about the development and use of integrated action planning concepts and processes.

Skills

1. Must be proficient with information systems to include but not limited to: computers, application software, and computer peripherals.
2. Must be proficient in Task Force/SAR Team records management.

Abilities

1. Must have strong interpersonal skills that allow for close working relationships during stressful situations.
2. Must be able to effectively communicate orally and in writing.
3. Must be able to gather and share information, plan effectively for future operations and make contingency plans for emergencies.

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Technical Search Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select competent personnel fully capable of providing state-of-the-art search techniques and tactics required in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Understanding of basic electronic principles and theories.
2. Knowledge of the capabilities and operations of the canine search component.
3. Knowledge of the proper use and field maintenance of technical search equipment.
4. Practical knowledge of search strategy and tactics, including:
   • "Probability of Detection" analysis.
   • Victim behavior patterns in various situations.
   • Search pattern selection criteria including terrain, structures, wind, weather, and air circulation characteristics.
   • Search team organization and operational procedures.
   • Knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of technical search equipment.
   • Understanding general rescue tactics and strategy.
5. Practical knowledge of the technical aspects of search theory, including:
   • Map, compass, and GPS techniques.
   • Ability to accurately sketch a search area.
   • Ability to apply and interpret search area marking techniques for perimeters, alert areas, hazards, etc.
   • Understand search area sectoring.
   • Recognize and identify victim location clues.
   • Practical knowledge of night search techniques, increased hazard awareness, and applicable air circulation characteristics.
   • Technical search marking system.
6. Practical knowledge of the theory and types of building construction, including:
   • Recognizing and identifying hazards associated with structural collapse and its environment.
   • Structural features and conditions that contribute to a high probability of victim survival in a collapsed structure.
   • Understand the need for flexibility and coordination during multiple search operations.
   • Understanding of air circulation characteristics in various environments.
   • Understanding of canine search operations including team size, check and recheck procedures, and observer responsibilities.
   • Understanding and identifying the hazards associated with confined space entry.
7. Knowledge of the items included for the search and reconnaissance list.
8. Must have completed the FEMA/OFDA Technical Search Specialist Course.
9. Must be proficient with basic rope techniques outlined in Rescue Systems I.

Skills

1. Capable of performing basic electronic trouble shooting techniques in the field.
2. Practical ability in the operation of selected technical electronic search equipment in the disaster environment. Thorough familiarization with system manufacturers' operation manuals and technical publications as provided.
3. Practical ability to apply search tactics, strategy, and procedures at collapse sites, including:
   • Understanding of US&R mission operational procedures.
   • Understanding of the size-up and reconnaissance considerations of an affected area.
   • Understanding of specific size-up and reconnaissance considerations of an assigned work site.
   • Understanding of US&R equipment and tools utilization.
   • Ability to integrate with local resources and other teams.

Abilities

1. See general requirements.

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Rescue Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select personnel fully capable of providing the rescue tactics and techniques required in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Must have successfully completed the First Responder Operations Level for Hazardous Materials as per OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
2. Current in a State-sanctioned Emergency Medical Technician - Basic certification or equivalent.
3. Knowledge of safety considerations during US&R operations, including the possibility and consequences of earthquake aftershocks and factors contributing to soil and structural instability.
4. Basic understanding of heavy equipment and rigging operations and capabilities (per Rescue Systems 1 or equivalent):
   • Understanding of standard terminology.
   • Basic understanding of the capabilities and limitations of various cranes.
   • Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions during crane operations.
   • Basic knowledge of rigging techniques and equipment (chains, blocks, harnesses, cable, etc.).
   • Basic knowledge and application of related construction equipment in support of US&R operations (loaders, conveyors, dump trucks, and backhoes).
5. Basic understanding in search unit strategy, tactics, techniques, and equipment (per Rescue Systems 1 or equivalent):
   • Understanding of search terminology.
   • Basic understanding of the use, capabilities, and limitations of a canine/handler team.
   • Basic understanding of canine search procedures.
   • Basic understanding of the use, capabilities and limitations of technical and electronic search devices (acoustic, sonic, seismic, fiber optic/video, etc.).
6. Basic understanding of various building construction types and the associated collapse patterns of each type.
7. Must have completed the FEMA Rescue Specialist Course.

Skills

1. Proficient in basic fire extinguishments techniques per NFPA 1001 Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications or the standards of the sponsoring agency.
2. Proficient in rope rescue techniques (per Rescue Systems 1):
   • Familiar with rope use and maintenance per NFPA 1983 Standard on Fire Service Life Safety Rope and System Components.
   • Understanding of rope rescue terminology.
   • Proficient in set-up and use of rappelling system(s).
   • Proficient in set-up and use of belay and lowering system(s).
   • Proficient in set-up and use of mechanical advantage raising and tensioning system(s).
   • Proficient in set-up and use of ascending system(s).
   • Proficient in self rescue technique(s).
   • Proficient in patient packaging, litter rigging, and removal (including stokes and SKED).
   • Proficient in the set-up and use of traversing system(s).
3. Proficient in confined space rescue techniques as per the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.146 Permit Required Confined Spaces.
   • Understanding of the definition of a confined space.
   • Understanding of confined space rescue terminology.
   • Working knowledge of confined space hazards (physical, contaminated and deficient atmospheres, etc.).
   • Proficient in hazard control techniques (monitoring and ventilation).
   • Proficient in the use of breathing apparatus systems (S.C.B.A, supplied air systems, etc.).
   • Proficient in the application of entry and egress rope systems and special patient removal techniques.
   • Proficient in support operations (lighting, personnel rotation, air supplies, etc.).
   • Proficient in the use of communications equipment for confined-space rescue.
4. Proficient in shoring and stabilization techniques (per Rescue Systems 1 or equivalent):
   • Understanding of shoring and stabilization terminology.
   • Proficient in the set-up and use of shoring equipment:
     • Wood
     • Air bags (high and low pressure)
     • Mechanical (screw jacks, hydraulic, pneumatic shores)
     • Ellis clamps
   • Working knowledge of weight estimation "rules of thumb" for construction materials.
   • Working knowledge of utilizing of on scene materials.
5. Use of specialized extrication equipment (per manufacturers' specifications):
   • Understanding of specialized extrication terminology.
   • Proficient in the set-up and use of:
     • Hydraulic tools (spreaders, cutters, rams, breaking and breaching, core drilling, etc.).
     • Electric equipment (generators, lighting equipment, etc.).
     • Cutting tools (rotary, chain, ring and reciprocating saws, etc.).
     • Pneumatic tools (air chisels and hammers, etc.).
     • Gas operated tools.
     • Burning equipment (oxyacetylene, exothermic, etc.).
     • Hand tools.
     • Winching equipment.
     • Rigging equipment.
     • Bolting equipment.
   • Working knowledge of safety and routine field maintenance procedures for specialized extrication equipment.
6. Proficient in rescue strategy, tactics, and operations at collapse sites (per Rescue Systems 1 or equivalent):
   • Understanding of collapse rescue terminology.
   • Working knowledge in the use and application of collapse site search and hazard markings.
   • Ability to recognize and mitigate hazards at collapse sites.
   • Ability to utilize or integrate with local resources, and other US&R Task Force/SAR Teams and rescue components.
   • Understanding of the construction features and conditions that contribute to a high probability of victim survival in collapsed structures (stairwells, elevator shafts, hallways, basements, underground garages, voids, etc.).
   • Working knowledge of the escape considerations and evacuation procedures for US&R personnel (signaling personnel control, etc.).
   • Ability to properly utilize equipment and tools, and apply techniques to achieve victim extrication and removal.
   • Understanding and working knowledge of general US&R mission operational procedures.

Abilities

1. See general requirements.

Position Requirements and Criteria

Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Medical Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select personnel fully capable of providing medical care required by the Task Force/SAR Team in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Paramedic or equivalent - Should be certified in BTLS, ACLS, and PALS regimens (or equivalent). Must be actively practicing pre-hospital care on a regular basis. This is specifically intended to exclude individuals with certifications but no regular experience to ensure acceptable mechanical skill levels during mission operations.
   OR
   Nurse - registered nurse certified within an accredited organization or municipality and meeting the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic Standards or State certification requirements and actively practicing advanced pre-hospital life support. Should be certified in BTLS, ACLS, and PALS regimens (or equivalent). These individuals must possess the immobilization, extrication, vascular access, and airway management skills of a National Registry Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic. This is specifically intended to exclude nurses with certifications but no regular experience to ensure acceptable mechanical skill levels during mission operations.
2. Individuals must have a knowledge and understanding of medical conditions common to US&R incidents such as lacerations, fractures, shock, crush injury and crush syndrome, burns, penetrating and blunt trauma, head injuries, respiratory embarrassment, hyper/hypothermia, and infections. They must also have experience treating common medical emergencies, eye injuries, minor orthopedic injuries, etc.
3. Have an understanding of the broad range of disaster organizations.
4. Have a working knowledge of general rescue operations at structural collapse sites, landslides, hurricanes, and other such disasters.

Skills

1. Must understand the need to adhere to pre-established local, municipal or State protocols and guidelines for which the Medical Specialist has been trained and certified by the Task Force/SAR Team Medical Director. This should be consistent with the sponsoring jurisdiction's standard of care and scope of practice.

Abilities

1. Must have the ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing.

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Hazardous Materials Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select personnel fully capable of providing competent assessments and advice to Task Force/SAR Team personnel in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Currently certified as a Hazardous Materials Technician as per OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
2. Knowledge of data collection techniques and documentation procedures in accordance with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
3. Current in a State-sanctioned Emergency Medical Technician - Basic certification or equivalent.

Skills

1. Ability to recognize and identify risks and hazards during aerial reconnaissance and document accordingly.
2. Ability to recognize and identify basic risks and hazards at the rescue site and document accordingly.

Abilities

1. See general requirements.

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Technical Information Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select personnel fully capable of providing competent information management for the Task Force/SAR Team in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Knowledge of and practical ability in technical writing, US&R terminology, data collection, documentation procedures, and information analysis of emergency/disaster operations.
2. Knowledge of and practical ability in the operation and use of various visual media including, but not limited to, video recorders, audio recorders, and still photography.

Skills

1. Ability to use a portable laptop computer and a working knowledge of word processing and other related software to include but not limited to: word processors, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software.

Abilities

1. See general requirements.

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Communications Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select personnel capable of managing the communications needs of the Task Force/SAR Team in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Must have practical knowledge of current telecommunications theory.
2. Must have a working knowledge of the parameters of Task Force/SAR Team communications equipment including:
   • Installation
   • Operation
   • Power requirements
   • Frequency programming
   • Field troubleshooting
3. Knowledge of incident communications planning and frequency management.
4. Knowledge of radio protocols and operational discipline.
5. Knowledge of amateur radio skills and operations, land mobile radio, telephone, and satellite systems.
6. Must have completed the FEMA/USAID Communications Specialist Course.

Skills

1. Ability to work with and effectively communicate within the Task Force/SAR Team and with other entities regarding communications issues.
2. Ability to effectively organize and plan during crisis situations.
3. Have a working knowledge of computers and applications.
4. Ability to program communications equipment.

Abilities

1. Ability to anticipate and plan for Task Force/SAR Team communications needs.
2. Ability to instruct Task Force/SAR Team members in the correct use of communications equipment while deployed in a disaster environment.
3. Able to work at heights to place antennas, repeaters, etc.
4. Must be able to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Position Requirements and Criteria
Individuals who meet the following requirements and criteria will be eligible to become Logistics Specialists in the Domestic and International Search and Rescue Response System. The intent of these requirements is to select personnel capable of managing the logistics needs of the Task Force/SAR Team in the urban disaster environment. The requirements and criteria for the position are identified in the following categories: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities.

Knowledge

1. Must have practical knowledge of the terminology and capabilities of all items in the equipment cache.
2. Must have a comprehensive knowledge of the equipment inventory and tracking procedures as defined in the FEMA/BHR/OFDA (USAID) Property Accountability System.
3. Must be familiar with the weights and volumes of the cache components, military and civilian air cargo regulations, equipment fuel requirements, and the environmental limitations of sensitive equipment and supplies.
4. Must be adequately certified to perform the duties of a shipper of dangerous goods as directed in CFR 49, AFJAM 24-204 IATA.
5. Must have completed the FEMA Logistics Specialist Course.

Skills

1. See general requirements.

Abilities

1. Must have mechanical aptitude and the ability to maintain and perform minor equipment repairs in the field.
2. Ability to keep good records and documentation.
3. Ability to effectively organize and plan during crisis situations.
4. Ability to anticipate and improvise so as to fulfill unexpected users' needs.
5. Have experience and training in personal safety in confined spaces, and in below-grade, compromised conditions.
6. Must be able to communicate effectively orally and in writing.