Response Operations Chief

The incident operations (OPS) Chief is responsible for the direct management of all incident tactical activities relating to containment and cleanup of the spill. Generally the OPS Chief will be designated by the responsible party. The OPS Chief assists in the formulation of the incident action plan. The OPS Chief may, if the size and complexities of the spill warrant, have a deputy assigned from one of the other agencies participating in the spill response. The deputy should be equally as qualified as the designated OPS Chief. An operations chief should be designated for each operational period, in cases where shift work will be accomplished, and the chief should have direct involvement in the preparation of the action for the period of responsibility.

Before the Spill:

1. Ensure that all positions called for in the response plan are staffed and that each individual can be contacted in a reasonable amount of time.

2. Have regularly scheduled meetings with subordinate managers to discuss the current status of operational procedures, equipment, and personnel. Provide the RPIM with list of needs to maintain readiness.

3. Coordinate the OPS section training for response simulations and drills.

4. Prepare an evaluation of the simulation or drill for submission to the RPIM.

During the Spill:

1. Adapt the operations section of the TVRP/FRP to the specific spill situation and from this, develop the operations portion of the action plan for submission and approval by the RPIM and unified command. Specify any modifications in equipment, materials, and personnel requirements.

2. Direct the overall execution of the containment and cleanup operations and keep the RPIM informed on the status of operations on a regular basis.

3. Work with the other section chiefs to assist the RPIM in manpower, transportation, supplies, food, and communication needs.

4. Frequently communicate with other section chiefs that have a bearing on tactical operations and ensure they have a clear understanding of support requirements.

5. Ensure, through subordinate supervisors and managers, that work assignments are being carried out as planned and that resource status changes are reported at once.

6. Assemble and assign strike teams and task forces as necessary to combat the spill and disassemble or reassign units that have completed their mission.

7. Prepare and forward any daily/shift reports as necessary to the RPIM. Keep and maintain accurate notes of actions and observations. Report information about special activities, events, and occurrences to the RPIM.

After the Spill:

1. Ensure that all notes are compiled and accurate records are forwarded to the RPIM, Documentation Unit Manager, and other managers as necessary. Include reports from subordinate managers on their areas of operation.

2. Meet with subordinate managers and supervise to discuss how the spill was handled and recommended changes to improve any future responses. Forward a report of these findings to the RPIM.

3. Make sure, through verification with subordinates, that all the equipment is cleaned, inspected, stored and accounted for during demobilization.