What step involves the relieving specialist indicating that they assume position responsibility?

The step that involves the relieving specialist indicating that they assume position responsibility is referred to as the assumption of position responsibility. This step is critical in air traffic control as it formally signifies to all involved personnel that the relieving specialist is now accountable for the safe and effective operation of the airspace or sector they are taking over.

During this process, the relieving specialist communicates their assumption of responsibility, which helps ensure clarity and continuity of operations. This transmission is crucial for enhancing safety as it indicates that the outgoing controller is handing over not just the workload but also the authority and accountability associated with managing air traffic.

In contrast, while position handoff may refer to the actual physical transfer of operational duties, it does not specifically encompass the aspect of authority. Control transfer typically relates to the physical handover of control instructions, and role confirmation usually involves validating specific responsibilities rather than formally accepting them. Thus, "assumption of position responsibility" is the most precise term for this critical control process.