Designing and installing new interoperability equipment is the easy part. Deciding how to use it is harder.

The Nevada Communications Steering Committee (NCSC) realized this from the start. They first authorized an engineering project to do the technical planning, design, and specifications, and followed up with another that’s known as the “SOP” project. CTA Communications, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in radio systems and communications centers, was hired for both projects.

The engineering project started in November, 2007 and is complete as of June, 2008. Results include a statewide design (see the “Interop in Nevada” page), interop frequency plan, purchase specifications for gateways and crossband repeaters, and a statewide TIC Plan.

Meanwhile, the SOP Project officially launched in May, 2008. An SOP Development Group, reporting to the NCSC, has been formed to represent the spectrum of emergency responders and oversee the project. Four main tasks will be accomplished:

1. A Summary of Statewide Interconnect Capabilities, which will include details of how the gateways and crossband repeaters work, a glossary of common nomenclature, and a set of templates and instructions that all agencies can use to prepare Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). A sample written interoperabilty agreement will also be included to help agencies formalize their procedures.

2. User Manuals for radio system users––the individual emergency responders who will be using the gateways and crossband repeaters. Instructions for dispatchers will be included as well.

3. Training Packages will be prepared, including presentations, handouts, and evaluation forms. Training will be for technicians who function behind the scene ensuring that the equipment is ready to use.

4. Exercise Templates will be developed for 36 emergency scenarios that call for some level of multi-agency or multi-discipline response. Scenarios will be weighted toward locally-initiated events, but will include some larger emergencies as well.

The SOP Project will be complete by early December, 2008. Consultants will be in Nevada in July for a series of meetings with emergency responders around the state. Training and exercise sessions will be presented in late summer and early fall.