What should be used to formally track personnel during an incident?

The use of a personnel accountability system is critical during an incident because it provides a structured and formalized method to ensure that all personnel are accounted for at all times. This system allows incident commanders and safety officers to maintain a clear record of who is on scene, their roles, and whether they are safe or in need of assistance.

A personnel accountability system typically incorporates features such as identification tags, rehearsed protocols for checking in and out, and technology that can assist in tracking personnel locations. This ensures that no one is left unaccounted for, which is essential for both safety and operational effectiveness during emergency situations.

In contrast, relying on verbal communication or informal checks is less reliable and more prone to errors, as these methods may not capture comprehensive or accurate information about personnel status. Personal logs may also be useful for individual tracking but lack the systematic overview required to ensure accountability for all personnel involved in the incident. The structured nature of a personnel accountability system makes it the most effective and safest choice for tracking personnel during an incident.