Which of the following is NOT a branch in a hazmat incident?

The role of the Incident Commander is critical in a hazmat incident, but it does not fall under the branch structure typically used in the management of such incidents. In the Incident Command System (ICS), branches are designated groups that focus on specific functional areas within the incident, such as operations, planning, logistics, and finance.

The decontamination branch focuses specifically on the processes and procedures necessary to remove or neutralize contaminants from individuals, equipment, and the environment. The Hazardous Materials Director is a specialized position responsible for overseeing the management of hazardous materials at the scene, including regulatory compliance and safety protocols. The Information/Research branch deals with gathering and analyzing data related to the incident, providing vital information for decision-making.

By understanding the role of the Incident Commander as the individual ultimately responsible for the incident's overall response and management, it becomes clear that this position does not fit into the defined branches, which are more operationally focused areas.