What does "Span of Control" mean in ICS?

"Span of Control" in the Incident Command System (ICS) refers specifically to the number of subordinates a supervisor can effectively manage. This concept is critical in ensuring that supervisors are not overwhelmed, allowing for clear communication and effective oversight of personnel. The ideal span of control is typically between three to seven subordinates, promoting a manageable ratio that enables supervisors to provide adequate attention and support to their team members.

In practice, maintaining an appropriate span of control helps enhance operational efficiency during an incident response. When supervisors have too many subordinates to manage, it can lead to confusion, miscommunication, and reduced effectiveness in the overall response. Thus, understanding and adhering to the principles of span of control is essential for effective incident management and coordination.