Which principle states that each person should report to only one manager?

The principle that states each person should report to only one manager is known as unity of command. This principle is crucial in organizational structures, particularly in public safety and emergency services. By having a single supervisor or manager for each individual, it ensures clarity in communication and reduces confusion regarding tasks and responsibilities.

Unity of command helps to establish clear lines of authority, which is essential for effective leadership and coordination within a team, especially during critical situations such as emergencies. This structure prevents the confusion that might arise if an individual were to receive instructions or directives from multiple supervisors, which could lead to conflicting orders and inefficiency in operations.

In contrast, while span of control refers to the number of subordinates that a manager can effectively oversee, the chain of command outlines the hierarchy within an organization. Incident command, on the other hand, relates specifically to the leadership structure established during emergency responses, focusing on managing an incident rather than the broader principle of reporting relationships within the organization.