EOC Credentialing Program Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the EOC Position Qualification System?
- The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Position Qualification System is a set of standards established by the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) to qualify, certify, and credential specific EOC positions. It ensures that deployable EOC staff members meet consistent standards for skills, training, and experience.
- I work in an EOC. Will I be required to seek a qualification from FDEM?
- Contact your home agency to determine whether you should be qualified through this program. In general, qualification is only applicable for personnel seeking to deploy on a State mission to another jurisdiction during a disaster.
- What are the requirements to qualify for an EOC position?
- Qualifying for an EOC position requires completing specific training, gaining experience through tasks and exercises, and undergoing evaluation by certified evaluators.
- What is the purpose of Position Task Books (PTBs)?
- PTBs document essential tasks and performance requirements for each position. They track an individual’s progress in meeting qualifications through observed performance in real events, exercises, or training.
- What is the process for certifying EOC personnel?
- After completing a PTB and required training, the Qualification Review Board (QRB) reviews applications to ensure that established standards are met. The QRB then makes a recommendation to FDEM whether the applicant should be considered qualified in the position.
- How is my qualification maintained or renewed?
- Qualifications must be renewed at least once every five (5) years through a process known as currency. During this process, documentation of participation in qualifying events, exercises, or incidents is used to demonstrate ongoing competency in the role.
- What training is required to qualify for an EOC role?
- Required training varies by position, but the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Core Curriculum, including courses like IS-100, IS-700, and others for leadership roles, is required for all personnel. Appendix A of the guide lists specific training requirements.
- Who are Qualified Evaluators, and what is their role?
- Qualified Evaluators assess a trainee’s completion of PTB tasks. They must be credentialed in the position they are evaluating or in a supervisory role and are responsible for unbiased task completion evaluation.
- What qualifies as a "qualifying experience"?
- Qualifying experiences include incidents, planned events, and exercises where an individual performs EOC duties. These must meet the minimum standards of incident complexity and duration as specified in the task book.
- What is Historical Recognition?
- Historical Recognition is a temporary process that allows personnel to seek qualification for a position based on prior experience, training, and relevant education. This process is typically only available for a limited period when a new task book is created.
- Who is eligible for Historical Recognition?
- Personnel who have substantial experience, prior training, or on-the-job experience relevant to the position may apply for certification through Historical Recognition, provided they meet specific documentation requirements.
- When can I apply for Historical Recognition?
- Applications are only accepted during a defined period announced by the FDEM Credentialing Unit, usually for a limited time (often one year) when a new Position Task Book (PTB) is released.
- What documentation is required for a Historical Recognition application?
- Applicants need to provide evidence of relevant experience (such as incident or exercise participation), training certificates, professional references, and a current resume. This documentation must show participation in at least two qualifying incidents or exercises, one of which must be an actual incident.
- How recent must my qualifying experiences be for Historical Recognition?
- Qualifying incidents, events, or exercises must have taken place within the last ten years before the start of the Historical Recognition period to be considered valid.
- How does the Qualification Review Board (QRB) evaluate Historical Recognition applications?
- The QRB reviews the submitted documentation to verify that the applicant meets the training and experience requirements for the position. The QRB may also consult subject matter experts (SMEs) to assess the applicant’s qualifications.
- What happens if my Historical Recognition application is incomplete or denied?
- If the QRB finds the application incomplete, it will be returned to you with recommendations for completion. If denied, you may file an appeal with the Credentialing Unit within 30 days, following the established appeals process.
- Is training required as part of Historical Recognition?
- Yes, certain NIMS courses and other training may be required. The exact training requirements will be specified in the Historical Recognition announcement letter and application form.
- Can I submit additional training or certifications beyond the minimum requirements?
- Yes, you may submit any additional relevant coursework, training, or certifications to strengthen your application, but the minimum required training must be completed as outlined in the application instructions.
- What is the difference between Historical Recognition and Reciprocity?
- Historical Recognition is a process for recognizing prior experience within Florida's qualification framework, while Reciprocity refers to transferring qualifications from other entities. FDEM does not accept external qualifications through reciprocity; all applicants must complete Florida-specific requirements.
- Will I need to complete a Position Task Book (PTB) if certified through Historical Recognition?
- No, Historical Recognition allows qualifying personnel to bypass the PTB requirement by demonstrating that they already possess the knowledge, skills, and experience for the position through prior documentation.
- How long is a certification obtained through Historical Recognition valid?
- Certifications issued via Historical Recognition have the same maintenance requirements as those obtained through the standard process and typically need to be renewed every five years to maintain currency.
- Can I still qualify for a position through the standard process if I miss the Historical Recognition period?
- Yes, if the Historical Recognition period ends, you can still qualify through the regular process, which involves completing a Position Task Book, training, and evaluation as outlined in the EOC Position Qualification Guide.
