What does "Span of Control" refer to in the context of ICS?

"Span of Control" refers specifically to the number of individuals that a supervisor can effectively manage within the Incident Command System (ICS). This concept helps to ensure that supervisors maintain an optimal level of oversight and communication within their teams. When the span of control is too wide, supervisors may struggle to provide adequate support and supervision, which can lead to confusion and inefficiencies. Conversely, if the span of control is too narrow, it can result in unnecessary layers of management and impede decision-making.

In the context of ICS, maintaining an appropriate span of control—typically recommended to be between three to seven subordinates—allows for effective management and facilitates clear communication lines among team members. This principle is vital for maintaining operational efficiency during incidents, as it ensures that each team member receives adequate supervision and guidance, fostering a cohesive and functional response team.