Whiteboard analysis
Whiteboard analysis describes the process of quickly sketching up a planned rescue system on a whiteboard or notepad .
Whiteboard analysis is usually conducted during training to allow comprehensive evaluation and discussion of different rescue systems , including analysis of the forces applied to different components and anchors .
It may be useful to conduct a quick whiteboard analysis or system mock-up when undertaking any complex team-based rescue . The use of simple component icons ( see Chapter 1.2 : tree rescue techniques ) that are quickly understood by all crew members can help to make this process quicker and more comprehensible .
Whiteboard analysis during rescue helps to achieve two key goals :
Teamwork
A common occurrence during a complex , team-based rescue is that each part of the team becomes focused on their own task and loses sight of the ‘ big picture ’.
In some respects , this may be optimal , as the job of the Incident Controller ( IC ) is to manage the overall rescue ; the task focus of component teams allows them to complete their assigned duties quickly and safely . Regular updates of each component to the team leadership is imperative for the IC to maintain an efficient operation .
In some respects , opportunities for efficiency , and possible improvements in safety , may be lost due to this task focus . Good early communication of the objective may allow each team to optimise the component they are assembling so that it better integrates into the overall system .
Safety analysis
A complex , team-based rescue may have multiple constituent systems . Whilst the IC may have a clear picture of how each system will operate , it can be hard to accurately convey and discuss these processes without visual assistance , particularly if team members are unfamiliar with some of the planned processes .
Whiteboard analysis should normally be conducted after contact with the casualty has been established . The priority , if it is safe to do so , should be to establish access and make contact . If the patient is secure and stable , the planned rescue systems can then be drawn on a whiteboard to begin analysis .
Significant time and energy may be expended building the system only to discover that the system is unworkable or has critical safety issues . In the worst case , rescuers or the patient may have committed to the system before this discovery is made .
One minute spent on whiteboard analysis may save ten minutes later , and will allow the safety officer to have good oversight of the system as they can visualise the intended outcome .
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