4.1 There is currently no way to ensure consistency among all entities across the nation for access to an incident or event scene. This guide is intended to enable consistency in credentials with respect to verification of identity, qualifications, and deployment authorization (NIMS 0002).

4.2 This guide is intended to be used by any entity that manages and controls access to an incident scene to facilitate interoperability and ensure consistency.

1.1 The focus of this guide is on the development of guidelines for credentialing for access. The guide addresses the fundamental terms, criteria, references, definitions, and process model for implementation of credentialing or a credentialing program.

1.2 This guide explains and identifies actions and processes that can provide the foundation for consistent use and interoperability of credentialing for all entities.

1.3 This guide describes the activities involved in creating a credentialing framework, which may include a physical badge; however, it does not define the knowledge, skills, or abilities required to gain access to a site or event. This guide does not address a requirement for a physical badge as a prerequisite for a credential. A badge may be an accepted credential across jurisdictional lines and other credentials may be issues by the AHJ at the scene.

1.4 This guide reinforces the importance of controlling access to a site by individuals with the proper identification, qualification, and authorization, which supports effective management of deployed resources.

1.5 This guide relies on the existing rules, regulations, laws, and policies of the AHJ. Regulations identifying personal and private information as public record may differ from a responder’s home jurisdiction.

1.6 This guide utilizes the principles of the Data Management Association Guide to the Data Management Body of Knowledge (DAMA-DMBOK) in order to effectively control data and information assets and does not prescribe the use of technology-based solutions.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.