4.1 Tasking SLSQ Resources

VERSION 1.0 – DECEMBER 2023

Purpose: To ensure that all Operators performing the role of the State Operations Communications Centre (SurfCom) Operator, are provided with clear principles and procedures regarding the coordination and deployment of SLSQ resources.

Scope: This procedure applies to all operators at the State Operations Communications Centre (SurfCom).

1. General Information
   1.1 The aim of SLSQ dispatch is to effectively coordinate and respond the most appropriate resources, from the closest or most appropriate locations to individual requests for service within acceptable or agreed timeframes.
   1.2 Operators must ensure the response of resources are managed correctly, consistently and safely, to ensure the most timely and effective care of all peoples in all circumstances.
   1.3 EMDs must remain aware of the various resources available for assignment in the areas being coordinated, ensuring the correct response of both single and simultaneous multiple resources, in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures.

2. Responsibility
   2.1 The Operators are responsible for ensuring the continued safety and well-being of both the patient and responding personnel. Each incident must be evaluated on the face value of the information provided and all appropriate information regarding patient location, access to scene and/or potential or known hazardous situations must be relayed to the responding staff for evaluation and assessment.

3. Continual Monitoring
   3.1 Operators are to regularly monitor the progress and welfare of operational staff, particularly where the situation involves:
   a) Responding and travelling through remote areas.
   b) Incidents that have an increased risk to personal safety – severe or adverse weather conditions.
   c) Incidents that require driving for extended periods over long distances.
   d) Any situation where information indicates or provides concerns with regard to the safety and/or well-being of responding operational staff.

4. Principles for Dispatching of SLSQ Resources
   4.1 Ensure the highest priority incident is dispatched in all instances.
   4.2 Utilise LIMSOC functions to identify the closest resource to an incident.
   4.3 Dispatch the closest most appropriate resource/s to the highest priority incident.
   4.4 Ensure the appropriate skill level of response is assigned.
   4.5 Assign any additional resource/s (back-up/support), as directed or required.

5. Dispatch of Response Priority Incidents
   5.1 A response priority is allocated to incidents where the patient has a potential life-threatening injury or illness. These priorities must be dispatched immediately to the closest most appropriate resource.
   5.2 In accordance with SOP 4.10 Assignment of Backup and Support Units, high priority incidents require a secondary response and backup resources.