What term describes a joint management structure in which two or more individuals share the role of command?

• A. Dual Command
• B. Unified Command
• C. Collaborative Command
• D. Single Command

Answer: (B)

Unified Command is a joint management structure used when two or more agencies with jurisdiction must work together to control an incident. It creates a single set of incident objectives and an integrated management team so all agencies can coordinate actions, share information, and allocate resources without competing directives. Each agency keeps its authority, but leadership is shared, allowing decisions to be made collaboratively. This approach is essential when incidents cross jurisdictional lines or involve multiple disciplines, ensuring a unified approach and preventing conflicts or duplication of effort. The other terms aren’t standard ICS concepts for shared leadership, and single command implies a single agency leading.