What is the first stage in the structural collapse process?

The first stage in the structural collapse process is size-up. This critical initial phase involves assessing the scene to gather information about the structure, the nature of the collapse, and any potential hazards. During size-up, rescuers evaluate the stability of the remaining structure, identify the number of victims, and consider the best approach for a rescue operation.

The size-up informs decision-making and resource allocation and helps prioritize actions to ensure the safety of both victims and rescuers. It also facilitates the development of a tactical plan for the subsequent phases of the rescue process. This stage is vital because effective and timely size-up can directly influence the success of the rescue effort and the management of the incident overall.