B. MODULAR EXTENSION.

The ICS organizational structure is modular, extending to incorporate all elements necessary for the type, size, scope, and complexity of a given incident. The IC structural organization builds from the top down; responsibility and performance begin with the incident command element and the IC. When the need arises, four separate sections can be used to organize the staff. Each of these may have several subordinate units, or branches, depending on the management requirements of the incident. If one individual can simultaneously manage all major functional areas, no further organization is required. If one or more of the functions requires independent management, an individual is assigned responsibility for that function.

The responding IC’s initial management assignments will normally be one or more Section Chiefs to manage the major ICS functional areas (operations, planning, logistics, and finance and administration). The Section Chiefs will further delegate management authority for their areas as required. If a Section Chief sees the need, he or she may establish branches or units (depending on the section). Similarly, each functional unit leader will further assign individual tasks within the unit as needed.

The modular concept described above is based on the following considerations:

For reference, Table A-1 describes the distinctive title assigned to each element of the ICS organization at each corresponding level, as well as the leadership title corresponding to each individual element.