1.1 This guide covers the use of the Incident Command System (ICS), as developed in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) in 2004, as the management framework for search and rescue (SAR) operations.

1.2 Except as otherwise specified herein, the methods and requirements of this standard also include NIMS, ICS, and National Response Framework (NRF) requirements, when required, for search and rescue personnel that deploy within the United States of America.

1.3 The ICS may be used outside of the United States for managing SAR operations, users of this standard need to be aware of other incident management requirements, guidelines, policies, procedures, and protocols within the area of ICS SAR operations.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.