Who is responsible for approving the decontamination procedures?

The responsibility for approving decontamination procedures typically lies with the Battalion Chief. This role involves overseeing operational procedures during incidents, which includes ensuring that decontamination processes are in place and adhered to. The Battalion Chief has the necessary training and authority to evaluate the specific needs of an incident and make informed decisions regarding safety protocols, including decontamination.

Although the fire chief has overall command authority and the incident commander manages the tactical aspects of the response, the Battalion Chief is specifically tasked with the on-ground application of procedures and standards, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The safety officer plays a crucial role in monitoring and maintaining safety but does not usually have the discretion to approve procedures independently. Hence, the responsibility for approving decontamination procedures is effectively aligned with the authority and operational focus of the Battalion Chief.