In which area must the incident commander approve entry for personnel wearing full protective gear?

The Hot Zone is the area surrounding an incident where the greatest level of danger exists, typically involving hazardous materials or serious threats. Personnel entering this area must do so with the approval of the incident commander to ensure that all safety protocols are followed and that only trained individuals are exposed to the immediate hazards. This command structure is crucial for maintaining operational control and ensuring the safety of all responders.

In contrast, the Warm Zone serves as a buffer area where personnel might not necessarily require the same level of protective gear as in the Hot Zone, and the Cold Zone is the safe area where command and support operations occur, typically free from hazards. The concept of a Restricted Zone is less common in this context, and its definition can vary; thus, it may not represent an area specifically requiring entry approval in the same way. Therefore, the requirement for designated command approval in the Hot Zone is essential for maintaining safety and accountability during emergency operations.