There are three classes of search and rescue emergency workers: Novice, support personnel, and field personnel. The basic qualifications listed below define each of the three classes. Local requirements may include more extensive and detailed qualifications to meet local needs. Authorized officials also may require search and rescue emergency workers to demonstrate proficiency in the skills required to carry out their assignments.

Emergency workers who are not qualified for specific search and rescue duties shall not be assigned to such duties unless specifically directed by an authorized official and then only when under the direct supervision and control of personnel who are qualified for that specific assignment.

(1) The following are basic qualifications for novice search and rescue emergency workers without specific duties including those personnel in a training status. Novice personnel shall:

(a) Be physically and mentally fit for the position assigned.

(b) Possess sufficient knowledge of search and rescue skills and techniques to fulfill their emergency assignment.

(2) The following are basic qualifications for support search and rescue emergency workers. Support-qualified personnel shall:

(a) Be physically and mentally fit for the position assigned.

(b) Possess knowledge of the skills required of field search and rescue emergency workers but are not required to have the field tested experience nor the physical capabilities of field-qualified personnel.

(c) Possess knowledge in first aid for the control of bleeding, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, bone immobilization, protection from the elements, and protection from exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

(d) Possess basic knowledge of helicopter operations. Successful completion of a helicopter operations basic course approved by the emergency management division satisfies this requirement.

(e) If duties require involvement in helicopter operations, possess demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in helicopter operations. Successful completion of a helicopter operations intermediate and, as applicable, advanced course, approved by the emergency management division satisfies this requirement.

(3) The following are basic qualifications for field search and rescue emergency workers. Field-qualified personnel shall:

(a) Be physically and mentally fit for the position assigned.

(b) Possess knowledge of and demonstrated proficiency in survival techniques and outdoor living.

(c) Possess knowledge in first aid for the control of bleeding, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, bone immobilization, protection from the elements, and protection from exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

(d) Possess knowledge in wilderness navigation including map, compass, and other navigation methods as appropriate.

(e) Possess basic knowledge of helicopter operations. Successful completion of a helicopter operations basic course approved by the emergency management division will satisfy this requirement.

(f) Possess knowledge of search and rescue techniques.

(g) Possess knowledge of crime scene recognition, evidence recognition, human remains recognition and the provisions of RCW 68.50.010, 68.50.020, and 68.50.050.

(h) If duties require involvement in helicopter operations, possess demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in helicopter operations. Successful completion of a helicopter operations intermediate, and, as applicable, advanced course approved by the emergency management division, satisfies this requirement.