This guide is not intended to be used by itself, but as a component of Guide F1288. Merely conforming to the guidelines described herein will not ensure that adequate triage is carried out in a multiple casualty incident.

The purpose of this guide is to establish a methodology for performing triage.

Individuals responsible for performing triage must be proficient in triage methods and related life-saving techniques.

A basic concept of triage is to do the greatest good for the greatest number of casualties.

The assessment process must be focused so as to identify those most at risk of early death who are likely to be salvaged by rapid medical intervention.

Triage allows the most efficient use of available resources.

This guide acknowledges many types of individuals with varying levels of emergency medical training. It also establishes a minimum scope of performance and encourages the addition of optional knowledge, skills and attitudinal objectives.

A vital role in the development of and operational application of triage is that of medical control. This guide should be used by medical directors in the determination of operational and medical protocols for use during MCI's.

This guide is intended to assist those who are responsible for defining the scope of performance of individuals who perform triage.

For the purpose of this guide the word “injured” includes both sick or injured patients, or both.

1.1 This guide covers minimum requirements for the scope of performance for individuals who perform triage at an emergency medical incident involving multiple casualties in a pre-hospital environment.

1.2 This guide acknowledges objectives based on an individual's required knowledge of signs and symptoms, patient assessment and basic life support.

1.3 Operating within the framework of this guide may expose personnel to hazardous materials, procedures, and equipment. For additional information see Practice F1031, Guides F1219, F1253, F1285, F1287, F1288, F1489 and F1651.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements, see Footnote 3.