The Challenge
A standardized, systematic response to managing a complex incident such as a pandemic is required.
No structure or approach to support standardization existed at HANDS prior to COVID-19, and the plans that did exist for pandemic and business continuity were not comprehensive enough to support the required response. Staff, including senior team, were unfamiliar with IMS.
The Solution
- HANDS implemented an IMS structure to frame their response to COVID-19.
- The agency used an “in the moment” approach to teach staff the principles, functions and processes of IMS as it was utilized.
The Process
- Created the particular IMS structure to be used at HANDS including assignment of leads for each standard function with CEO acting as Command Officer
- Provided high level (only what you need to know) education/resources regarding IMS structure and functions with senior team and working groups
- Held daily meetings to model and support use of IMS structure and functions in development of Agency response plan, including documentation of action items.
- Taught only components necessary to lead the work while bridging components behind the scenes (e.g., provided template and administrative support for creating documentation of plans without expressly teaching that component).
Built information required for future work into templates (e.g., captured information required for business continuity and pandemic plans. - Post-pandemic Plan includes more detailed education re: IMS to a broader audience that will include practice scenarios; complete pandemic plan for Agency that will include job and task descriptions for each area of function within IMS and ensuring business continuity plans are developed.
Contact
For more information on Implementing Incident Management System (IMS) at HANDS, contact Andrea Roberts, aroberts@handstfhn.ca