The management of major incidents and disasters is complex and requires the effective engagement and integration of a great number of responding organizations and individuals. This section offers an introduction to the subject, clarifying the key principles and giving some basic organizational information. The chapter classifies major incidents, defines the specific phases, the process of declaring a major incident, how to set the scene (including command structures and responsibilities), explains the role of the health services, the roles of the other emergency services and the armed forces. It covers radio voice procedure and approved communication shorthand, triage, trauma scoring, and mass gathering medicine.
