Which of the following is NOT a command staff position?

• A. Public Information Officer
• B. Liaison Officer
• C. Safety Officer
• D. Operations Section Chief

Answer: (D)

In ICS, roles are divided into Command, Command Staff, and General Staff. The three people who make up the Command Staff—Public Information Officer, Liaison Officer, and Safety Officer—advise the Incident Commander and handle external communications, coordination, and safety oversight. The Operations Section Chief, on the other hand, is part of the General Staff and leads the Operations Section, directing tactical response and on-scene resources. Because of this placement, the Operations Section Chief is not a command staff position. The other roles fit command staff duties: the Public Information Officer communicates with the public and media, the Liaison Officer coordinates with other agencies, and the Safety Officer monitors for hazards and ensures safety practices.