The National Incident Management System (NIMS) is a standardized approach to incident management developed by the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program was established in March 2004, in response to Homeland Security Presidential Directive -5, issued by President George W. Bush⁷. The purpose of NIMS is to provide a common framework for coordinating and integrating the efforts of various agencies and organizations involved in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.
Contents
What is NIMS?
NIMS is based on the premise that incidents can be managed effectively by using a set of core concepts, principles, and components that apply to all types of hazards and situations. NIMS provides stakeholders across the whole community with the shared vocabulary, systems, and processes to successfully deliver the capabilities described in the National Preparedness System⁵. NIMS defines operational systems that guide how personnel work together during incidents, such as:
– The Incident Command System (ICS), which is a standardized on-scene management structure for command, control, and coordination of resources and personnel.
– The Multiagency Coordination System (MACS), which is a combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications that support coordination among different jurisdictions and organizations.
– The Public Information System (PIS), which is a system for communicating timely and accurate information to the public and the media during an incident.
– The National Qualification System (NQS), which is a process for establishing the minimum qualifications and certification standards for emergency management personnel.
– The Resource Management System (RMS), which is a process for identifying, ordering, mobilizing, tracking, and demobilizing resources needed for incident operations.
– The Mutual Aid System (MAS), which is a system for providing or requesting assistance from other jurisdictions or organizations during an incident.
Who are the Stakeholders of NIMS?
NIMS is applicable to all stakeholders with incident related responsibilities, regardless of their size, function, or location. According to FEMA, the stakeholders of NIMS include:
– Federal departments and agencies
– State, territorial, tribal nation, and local governments
– Private sector entities
– Non-governmental organizations
– Community-based organizations
– Individuals and households
These stakeholders are expected to adopt NIMS as a condition for receiving federal preparedness grants. They are also encouraged to participate in NIMS training, exercises, and evaluation activities to enhance their capabilities and readiness.
What are the Benefits of NIMS?
NIMS provides several benefits for the stakeholders involved in incident management. Some of these benefits are:
– Improved interoperability and collaboration among different agencies and organizations
– Enhanced situational awareness and information sharing
– Reduced duplication of efforts and resources
– Increased efficiency and effectiveness of incident operations
– Greater accountability and transparency of actions and decisions
– Increased public trust and confidence in emergency management
Conclusion
NIMS is a comprehensive and flexible framework for managing all types of incidents. It is applicable to all stakeholders with incident related responsibilities, who are expected to adopt and implement its components and principles. By doing so, they can improve their preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities, as well as their coordination and cooperation with other stakeholders. NIMS is a vital tool for enhancing the resilience and security of the nation.
