What is the primary role of the RST Team in the initial response?

The primary role of the Rapid Structural Collapse Rescue (RST) Team in the initial response is focused on initial hazard detection and assessment. This is critical as identifying potential hazards plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of both the rescuers and the victims during a structural collapse. By assessing the stability of the structure and recognizing any immediate dangers such as gas leaks, electrical hazards, or further risk of collapse, the RST Team can develop an informed plan of action.

This initial assessment is essential for prioritizing safety and conducting effective operations, as it establishes a foundational understanding of the situation on-site. It allows the team to gauge the structure's integrity and makes it possible to identify safe zones for rescuers and victims, thereby directing further rescue efforts more effectively.

In contrast, while victim retrieval and medical assessment are crucial components of overall rescue operations, they typically occur after the initial hazard assessment has been completed. Coordination of search teams and finalizing rescue operations come later in the process, once a thorough understanding of risks has been established and operational plans are set in place. Therefore, the emphasis on initial hazard detection places the RST Team in the best position to ensure overall safety and effectiveness in their rescue operations.