What are the five phases in the response for structural collapse incident?

• A. Assessment of the collapse area; Surface victim removal; Search all the accessible areas and void spaces; Selected debris removal; General debris removal
• B. Assessment of the collapse area; Surface victim removal; Search all accessible areas and void spaces; General debris removal; Selected debris removal
• C. Initial assessment; Surface victim removal; Search all the accessible areas and void spaces; Debris removal; Site cleanup
• D. Assessment of the area; Victim removal; Surface search; Debris removal; Final cleanup

Answer: (A)

The five phases reflect a logical, safety‑driven progression from scene awareness to targeted and then broad debris clearing, optimizing both victim access and structural protection. Start with assessing the collapse area to identify hazards, stability concerns, and access points, which sets the plan and safety controls. Then remove any surface victims quickly when possible, because they are the most accessible and can be extricated with minimal disturbance to the structure. Next, search all accessible areas and void spaces to locate victims who aren’t on the surface, ensuring no one is overlooked before heavy debris is moved. After locating victims, perform selected debris removal to reach them or to safely expose voids while preserving stability, rather than indiscriminately clearing all debris. Finally, proceed with general debris removal to clear the scene and complete recovery once immediate rescue priorities have been addressed.