Emergency Communication Interoperability and Radio System Checklist
This comprehensive emergency communication interoperability and radio system checklist ensures regulatory compliance with DHS SAFECOM, FCC, FirstNet, APCO, NENA. Annual interoperability assessment for public safety communications systems covering shared talk groups, NIFOG channel availability, cross-discipline communications, and ISSI/CSSI gateway function per DHS SAFECOM and FirstNet/PSBN standards. Interoperability failures hamper multi-agency emergency response coordination. Complete all sect
- Industry: Emergency Services
- Frequency: Per Shift / Daily
- Estimated Time: 35 minutes
- Role: Station Captain / Shift Commander / EMS Lead
- Total Items: 13
- Compliance: DHS SAFECOM, FCC, FirstNet, APCO, NENA
Shared and Mutual Aid Channels
Verify interoperability channel programming and training.
- Are NIFOG (National Interoperability Field Operations Guide) channels programmed into all portable and mobile radios?
- Are state ITAC channels programmed and agency personnel know which channel to use for each discipline?
- Are mutual aid channels programmed and radio assignment maps shared with neighboring agencies?
- Are interoperability channel DCS/CTCSS codes consistent with regional plan to prevent interference?
- Have all field personnel received training on when and how to switch to interoperability channels?
Gateway and Patching Systems
Verify gateway function per SAFECOM standards.
- Is radio gateway or patch system tested and operational for cross-band/cross-system communications?
- Is FirstNet/PSBN LTE coverage available in the jurisdiction for broadband data applications?
- Can dispatch console patch disparate radio systems within 30 seconds of request?
- Is cellular push-to-talk available as backup when radio system fails?
Interoperability Testing and Exercises
Verify periodic testing per SAFECOM requirements.
- Is annual interoperability communications exercise conducted with all responding agencies?
- Is radio cache of common agency radios available for agencies with incompatible systems?
- Has radio coverage survey been conducted to identify dead spots in jurisdiction?
- Are interoperability deficiencies documented and corrective actions assigned and tracked to completion?
Related Emergency Services Checklists
- Critical Infrastructure Protection and Security Assessment Checklist
- Law Enforcement Use of Force Policy Compliance Review Checklist
- Fire Investigation Scene Safety and Documentation Checklist
- Public Access Defibrillator (AED) Program Management Checklist
Why Use This Emergency Communication Interoperability and Radio System Checklist?
This emergency communication interoperability and radio system checklist helps emergency services teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for station captain / shift commander / ems lead professionals, this checklist covers 13 critical inspection points across 3 sections. Recommended frequency: per shift / daily.
Ensures compliance with DHS SAFECOM, FCC, FirstNet, APCO, NENA. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Emergency Communication Interoperability and Radio System Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 13 inspection items across 3 sections: Shared and Mutual Aid Channels, Gateway and Patching Systems, Interoperability Testing and Exercises. It is designed for emergency services operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per shift / daily. Each completion takes approximately 35 minutes.
Who should use this Emergency Communication Interoperability and Radio System Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Station Captain / Shift Commander / EMS Lead professionals in the emergency services industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.