International Practical Training for Incident Safety Officers

In a noteworthy effort to enhance Taiwan's disaster response protocols, the Central Police University (CPU) organized the "International Practical Exchange Training for Incident Safety Officers" on November 21, 2025. This intensive training was led by Stephen McLane, a senior instructor from the U.S. National Fire Academy, who delivered a curriculum centered on the operational science of risk mitigation. This collaboration represents a pivotal shift toward evidence-based safety management. By incorporating established U.S. methodologies, the program seeks to improve the tactical effectiveness of Taiwan's Incident Safety Officers (ISOs). In addition to immediate operational enhancements, the initiative aims to strengthen CPU's research framework in disaster prevention, ensuring that future frontline personnel are equipped with advanced, scientifically grounded strategies to reduce occupational hazards.

The urgent need for training at Central Police University is highlighted by a new directive from Minister of the Interior Shyh-fang Liu. In response to recent operational fatalities, Minister Liu has prioritized the modernization of occupational health and safety for emergency responders. The Ministry's directive establishes an ambitious goal: to train 1,000 qualified Incident Safety Officers (ISOs) by 2029. This four-year plan will serve as the foundation for a nationwide standardization of safety protocols. By formalizing ISO positions in every jurisdiction and enforcing ongoing education, the government aims to ensure that every rescue mission is conducted in a controlled, safety-first environment, effectively bridging the gap between policy intent and frontline reality.

( Senior Instructor Stephen McLane from the U.S. National Fire Academy delivering a lecture. )

The training session primarily focused on the role of the Incident Safety Officer (ISO). During the lecture, the instructor emphasized that cultural differences can influence problem-solving approaches and that a strong safety culture must be embedded at every organizational level to be effective. The instructor explained that Incident Safety Officers must meet professional firefighting qualification standards, pass a certification exam, and possess the 12 core competencies outlined in NFPA 1521 to ensure their professional capability. ISOs are appointed by the incident commander and play a critical role in monitoring personnel movement and controlling conditions at the incident scene. They have the authority to suspend, modify, or terminate operations and are responsible for identifying unsafe behaviors or environmental hazards, reporting them immediately to the commander to safeguard personnel on-site. The instructor noted that ISOs must be familiar with the concepts of operational zones, control zones, and restricted zones at an incident scene. In high-risk scenarios-such as highway accidents, water rescues, and structural fires-ISOs should be well-versed in relevant standards, including NFPA 1500 and NFPA 1521, to enhance on-scene response capabilities. In some organizations, the Health and Safety Program Manager (HSPM) may also serve as the ISO, supporting the management of risk factors and safety policies. Lastly, the instructor highlighted the importance of addressing firefighters' mental health, stressing that occupational harm is not limited to physical injuries. Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), must also receive serious attention.

This program enhanced disaster response training at Central Police University (CPU) by incorporating global practical experience, significantly advancing fire safety research in Taiwan. The curriculum offered students the opportunity to connect theory with practice through immersive sessions led by visiting instructors. Widely lauded for its effectiveness, the program showcases the depth and diversity of Central Police University's academic accomplishments.

( Group photo of the Incident Safety Officer International Practical Training. )