Due to the lack of expertise in all fields, US&R will lean on whom to develop the IAP?

• A. Incident Commanders
• B. Safety Officers
• C. Subject Matter Experts (structural engineers, mechanical engineers, chemist, or heavy equipment operators)
• D. Public Information Officers

Answer: (C)

Developing an IAP requires accurate, field-specific input about what can safely be done and how hazards can be mitigated. When expertise across all relevant fields isn’t available within the team, you rely on Subject Matter Experts—structural engineers, mechanical engineers, chemists, and heavy equipment operators—to provide the technical knowledge needed to assess conditions, determine feasible tactics, and specify necessary resources. Their specialized understanding ensures decisions about stabilization, search and rescue methods, and hazard controls are based on real capabilities and risks.

Incident Commanders guide overall strategy and coordination; Safety Officers focus on risk mitigation and worker safety; Public Information Officers handle communications. These roles are essential, but the detailed technical guidance for planning actions comes from the Subject Matter Experts who can interpret complex conditions and translate them into a safe, effective IAP.