1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure Coast Medic Ambulance responds effectively and professionally to a Major Incident during medical cover at events, including festivals and marine-based environments. The policy supports rapid triage, effective communication, coordination with emergency services, and efficient casualty management.

2. Definition of a Major Incident

Definition of Major Incident

“Any event or situation with a large number of casualties or hazards which overwhelms the normal medical cover at the event and requires additional resources, coordination with statutory services, or specialist response.”

Examples of Major Incidents

Crowd surges or crushes
Fire, explosion, or structural collapse
Mass casualty traffic incidents (including marine collisions)
Drowning incidents with multiple casualties
Terrorist threats or active violence
Environmental hazards (e.g., storm at marine events)

3. Objectives

Preserve life and prevent further harm
Prioritise casualties using recognised triage systems
Establish clear leadership and communication channels
Coordinate effectively with emergency services
Document all actions and preserve evidence

4. Scope

Applies to:

All Coast Medic Ambulance staff (clinical and non-clinical)
Volunteers under our command
Any sub-contracted medical teams working under our direction

5. Roles and Responsibilities

5.1 Event Medical Lead (EML)

Overall command of medical response
Declare a Major Incident (via radio/phone or on-scene)
Liaise with Event Control and statutory services
Activate the Major Incident Plan

5.2 Triage Officer

Establish a Triage Point
Use Sieve & Sort (START or MIMMS method)
Prioritise evacuation and resource allocation

5.3 Communications Lead

Secure designated comms channel (radio and phone)
Maintain clear logs and relay updates to EML and Event Control
Ensure messages to external agencies are accurate and timely

5.4 Treatment Team

Set up Casualty Clearing Station
Provide immediate life-saving care
Prepare casualties for transport

6. Activation Procedure

Identification: Any staff member who suspects a major incident must inform the EML immediately.
Declaration: EML officially declares a Major Incident – “MAJOR INCIDENT DECLARED – STAND BY.”
Triage & Treatment: Begin triage, mark patients (P1–P3, deceased), and initiate treatments.
Escalation: Request additional resources if needed:
- Statutory ambulance backup
- Fire & rescue (for entrapments or marine access)
- Air support (air ambulance/coastguard if required)
Liaison: EML to maintain direct contact with Event Safety Officer and emergency services.

7. Marine-Specific Considerations

Use of water safety teams, lifeguards, and marine radio channels
Pre-identified shoreline triage points for mass casualty landings
Coordination with Harbour Master, RNLI, Coastguard, and SAR helicopter if required
Casualty transport may include boats or hovercraft

8. Post-Incident Actions

Debrief all staff (hot & cold debrief formats)
Submit full Incident Report within 48 hours
Provide mental health support for staff
Cooperate fully with any formal investigations

9. Training and Review

Annual Training

All staff must receive annual training on Major Incident procedures.

Exercises

Scenario-based exercises will be conducted quarterly (including marine scenarios)

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or after any major incident.

10. Related Documents

Event Medical Operations Plan
Casualty Triage Flowchart
Communications Protocol
Marine Safety Coordination SOP
METHANE/CHALET Reporting Templates

Event Major Incident Policy