Who has the authority to designate smoking areas during an emergency incident?

The authority to designate smoking areas during an emergency incident lies with the Incident Commander. This individual is responsible for the overall management of the incident scene, ensuring that operations proceed safely and efficiently. Since the Incident Commander has the broadest view of the situation and is entrusted with making critical decisions about various aspects of the incident, including safety protocols, it is within their jurisdiction to establish designated smoking areas. This action helps manage potential hazards associated with smoking near flammable materials or in high-risk zones, maintaining the safety of personnel and the public during an emergency response.

While other personnel, such as the on-scene safety officer or department chief, play important roles in ensuring safety and addressing specific aspects of incident management, the ultimate authority to set such directives resides with the Incident Commander due to their encompassing oversight of the incident.