Which authority must approve the SOP locally before it goes to the installation commander?

The authority that must approve the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) locally before it is forwarded to the installation commander is the supervisor. This is because supervisors hold a critical role in ensuring that the SOP meets the operational requirements and standards specific to their team or department. They possess firsthand knowledge of the processes and procedures that need to be documented and can assess the SOP's alignment with the organization's goals and compliance with regulatory policies.

Supervisors are also responsible for overseeing the implementation of SOPs within their areas. This includes evaluating the effectiveness of the procedures, ensuring that they are clear and practical for team members, and identifying any potential issues that could arise from the SOP before it is formally submitted for further approval. Their insights and authorization are vital for maintaining operational integrity and achieving compliance before the SOP reaches higher levels of command for final approval.