Four case studies of emergency operations centers: Design characteristics and implications

Authors

  • David M. Neal, PhD

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2005.0006

Keywords:

-

Abstract

Few studies exist on Emergency Operating Center (EOC) location and design. In response to the lack of literature on the topic, this study describes some basic characteristics of four EOCs located in central Alabama. The results of the study show that convenience and availability determine the EOC site selection. The EOCs in the study have dedicated areas for offices, operations, and meetings. In a perfect world, the respondents in the study recommended that EOCs should have sleeping areas, showers, cooking facilities, and restrooms. The biggest challenge faced by the respondents in the study was noise level in the operations room, which hinders communications and decision making. Most have attempted various strategies with some success to tackle this issue. A combination of allotted space, resources, personal experience, and advice from others strongly influence EOC design and configuration.

Author Biography

David M. Neal, PhD

Fire and Emergency Management Program, Department of Political Science, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma.

References

Quarantelli EL: Problems and Difficulties in the Use of Local EOCs in Natural Disasters [working paper #43]. Columbus, OH: The Disaster Research Center, Ohio State University, 1972.

Neal DM: Design characteristics of emergency operating centers: What we know and don’t know. J Emerg Manage. 2003; 1(2): 35-38.

Quarantelli EL: Uses and Problems of Local EOCs in Disaster [preliminary paper #53]. Columbus, OH: The Disaster Research Center, the Ohio State University, 1978.

Paxton KF: Manual for Developing EOC Standard Operating Procedures. Palo Alto, CA: Center for Planning and Research, 1980.

Moore W: Developing an Emergency Operating Center. IQ Service Report 30 (7). Washington, DC: ICMA, 1998.

Dynes RR: The Functioning of Local Civil Defense in Disasters [working paper #21]. Columbus, OH: The Disaster Research Center, Ohio State University, 1969.

Scanlon JT: The role of EOCs in emergency management: A comparison of Canadian and American experience. Int J Mass Emerg Disasters. 1999; 12(1): 51-76.

Drabek TE: Professional Emergency Manager: Structures and Strategies for Success. Boulder, CO: Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado, 1987.

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Published

01/01/2005

How to Cite

Neal, PhD, D. M. “Four Case Studies of Emergency Operations Centers: Design Characteristics and Implications”. Journal of Emergency Management, vol. 3, no. 1, Jan. 2005, pp. 29-32, doi:10.5055/jem.2005.0006.