Section II. PATIENT DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES

G-10. Decontaminate a Litter Chemical Agent Patient

Before contaminated patients receive medical treatment in the clean treatment area, they must be decontaminated. Place the cutting device in a container of 5 percent hypochlorite solution between each use. Each decontamination team member decontaminates his gloves and apron with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution frequently to prevent spreading any contamination to patient's skin. Decontaminate the patient's skin, bandages, wounds, mask, identification tags with chain, and splints with a 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution. The litter patient is decontaminated and undressed as follows:

NOTE

Litter patients requiring EMT or ATM in the clean area of the MTF will be completely decontaminated. A patient not requiring clean EMT or ATM at the MTF, but requiring further evacuation (for example: a stable patient with a partial amputation of a lower extremity) should only have his wound area and MOPP spot decontaminated to remove any gross contamination. The patient should be evacuated in his MOPP.

a. Step 1. Physically remove gross contamination. Use any stiff material (stick, cardboard, plastic strip, metal banding strap) to physically remove gross contamination from the patient's MOPP ensemble. Much of the CW agent contamination can be removed through physical means.

b. Step 2. Decontaminate the patient's mask and hood. The patient has been triaged and stabilized (if necessary) by the senior trauma specialist in the patient decontamination area. A two-man decontamination team moves him to the litter stands at the clothing removal station.

(1) Decontaminate the mask and hood. Use the SDK, or use a 5 percent hypochlorite solution or household bleach to sponge down the front, sides, and top of the mask hood. Decontaminate spots with the SDK or the 5 percent hypochlorite solution.

(2) Remove hood. Remove the hood by cutting the hood. Before cutting the hood, dip the cutting device in a 5 percent hypochlorite solution. For the M17-series mask, cut the neck cord and the small string under the voicemitter. Release or cut the hood shoulder straps and unzip the hood zipper. Cut the hood, close to the filter inlet cover and eye-lens outsert, upward to the top of the eye-lens outsert, and across the forehead to the outer edge of the other eye-lens outsert. Proceed downward toward the patient's shoulder, staying close to the eye-lens, then across the lower part of the voicemitter to the zipper. After dipping the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution, cut the hood from the center of the forehead over the top of the head (see [Figure G-3]). Fold the left and right sides of the hood to the side of the patient's head, laying the sides of the hood on the litter. For the M40-series protective mask cut the hood shoulder straps, then cut the quick-doff hood from the front bottom center to the chin through the elastic band under the chin. Fold the left and right sides of the hood over the shoulders away from the head.

Figure G-3. Cutting the M17 protective mask hood.

(3) Decontaminate the protective mask and exposed skin. Using the SDK, soap and water, or a 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution, wipe the external parts of the mask. Cover the mask air inlet(s) with gauze or your hand to keep the mask filter dry. Continue by wiping the exposed areas of the patient's face, including the neck and behind the ears.

(4) Remove the Field Medical Card. Cut the patient's FMC tie wire, allowing the FMC to fall into a plastic bag. Seal the plastic bag and rinse the outside of the bag with a 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Place the plastic bag with the FMC under the back of the protective mask head straps. The FMC will remain with the patient.

c. Step 3. Remove gross contamination from the patient's overgarment. Remove all visible gross contamination by scraping with a stick or other device.

d. Step 4. Remove the patient's personal effects and protective overgarment.

(1) Remove patient's personal effects. Remove the patient's personal effects from his protective overgarment and BDU pockets. Place the articles in a plastic bag, label with the patient's identification, and seal the bag. If the articles are not contaminated, return them to the patient. If the articles are contaminated, place them in the contaminated holding area until they can be decontaminated, and then return them to the patient.

(2) Cut the patient's overgarment. The overgarment jacket and trousers may be cut simultaneously. Two persons may be cutting clothing at the same time. Cut around bandages, tourniquets, and splints, leaving them in place.

NOTE

A cut is a separation of material by use of a cutting device that cuts material into two pieces. EXAMPLE: Cutting the sleeve from the cuff to the jacket collar is one cut.

CAUTION

Bandages may have been applied to control severe bleeding and are treated like tourniquets. Only medical personnel remove bandages, tourniquets, and splints.

(3) Remove overgarment jacket. Make two cuts, one up each sleeve from the wrist up to the shoulder, and then through the collar ([Figure G-4]). Do not allow the gloves to touch the patient along the cut line. Dip the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution before making each cut to prevent contamination of the patient's uniform or underclothing. Keep the cuts close to the inside of the arms so that most of the sleeve material can be folded outward. Unzip the jacket; roll the chest sections to the respective sides, with the inner surface outward. Continue by tucking the clothing between the arm and chest. Roll the cut sleeves away from the arms, exposing the black liner.

Figure G-4. Cutting the overgarment jacket.

(4) Remove overgarment trousers. Cut both trouser legs starting at the ankle as shown in [Figure G-5]. Keep the cuts near the inseams to the crotch. With the left leg, continue cutting to the waist, avoiding the pockets. With the right leg, cut across at the crotch to the left leg cut. Place the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Fold the cut trouser halves away from the patient and allow the halves to drop to the litter with contaminated (green) side down. Roll the inner leg portion under and between the legs.

Figure G-5. Cutting the overgarment trousers.

(5) Remove outer gloves. This procedure can be done with one person on each side of the patient working simultaneously. The decontamination team will decontaminate their gloves in 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Next, lift the patient's arms up and out of the cutaway sleeves unless detrimental to the patient's condition. Grasp the fingers of the glove, roll the cuff over the fingers, turning the glove inside out. Do not remove the inner cotton glove liners at this time. Carefully lower the arms across the chest after the outer gloves have been removed ([Figure G-6]). Do not allow the patient's arms to come into contact with the exterior of his overgarment. Drop his gloves into the contaminated waste bag. Dip your gloves in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution.

Figure G-6. Remove outer gloves and position arms after glove removal.

(6) Remove overboots. Cut the overboot laces and fold the lacing eyelets flat outwards. If the green vinyl overboot (GVO) is worn, first try to remove the overboot without cutting; if necessary, cut the boot along the front. While standing at the foot of the litter, hold the heel with one hand, pull overboot downwards, and then pull towards you to remove the overboot over the combat boot heel. Remove the two overboots simultaneously. This reduces the likelihood of contaminating one of the combat boots. While holding the heels off the litter, have a decontamination team member wipe the end of the litter with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution to neutralize any liquid contamination that was transferred to the litter from the overboots. Lower the patient's heels onto the decontaminated litter. Place the overboots in the contaminated waste bag. Decontamination personnel dip their gloves in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution.

e. Step 5. Remove patient's battle dress uniform.

(1) Remove battle dress uniform. Cut the BDU jacket and trousers as described above for the protective overgarment. Roll the jacket and trousers as described for the protective overgarment.

(2) Remove combat boots. Cut the bootlaces along the tongue. Remove the boots by pulling them towards you. Place the boots in the contaminated waste bag. Do not touch the patient's skin with contaminated gloves when removing his boots.

(3) Remove undergarments. Remove the patient's tee shirt. Dip the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution between each cut. Cut both sleeves from the inside, starting at the elbow, up to the armpit. Continue cutting across the shoulder to the collar. Cut around bandages or splints, leaving them in place. Next, peel the tee shirt away from the body to avoid spreading contamination. If the patient is wearing a brassiere, cut it between the cups. Cut both shoulder straps where they attach to the cups and lay them back off of the shoulders. Remove the patient's under shorts/panties by cutting from the lower side of the hip to the waist on both sides. Fold the front flap of the shorts/panties down between the patient's legs onto the litter. Do not allow the outside of the garment to touch the patient's skin. Remove the socks and cotton glove liners. Do not remove the patient's identification tags.

f. Step 6. Transfer the patient to a decontamination litter. After the patient's clothing has been cut away, he is transferred to a decontamination litter or a canvas litter with a plastic sheeting cover. Three decontamination team members decontaminate their gloves and aprons with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. One member places his hands under the patient's legs at the thighs and Achilles tendons, a second member places his arms under the patient's back and buttocks, and a third member places his arms under the patient's shoulders and supports the head and neck. They carefully lift the patient using their knees (not their backs) to minimize back strain. While the patient is elevated, another decontamination team member removes the litter from the litter stands and replaces it with a decontaminated (clean) litter. The patient is carefully lowered onto the clean litter. The contaminated clothing and overgarments are placed in bags and moved to the contaminated waste dump. The dirty litter is rinsed with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution and placed in the litter storage area.

g. Step 7. Decontaminate skin.

(1) Spot decontamination. With the patient in a supine position, spot decontaminate the skin using the SDK or a 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution. Decontaminate areas of potential contamination. Include areas around the neck, wrists, and lower parts of the face. Decontaminate the patient's identification tags and chain, if necessary.

NOTE

Complete body wash is not appropriate and may be injurious to the patient. During complete body wash, the patient would have to be rolled over to reach all areas of the skin. This is not necessary for adequate decontamination.

(2) Trauma specialist care. During decontamination, the clothing around bandages, tourniquets, and splints was cut and left in place.

WARNINGS

1. DO NOT apply the SDK or irrigate wounds in the abdominal and thoracic cavities or intracranial head injuries.

2. DO NOT remove splints.

(3) Check patient for completeness of decontamination. The patient is checked with the CAM or with M8 detector paper for completeness of decontamination.

NOTE

Other monitoring devices may be used when available.

(4) Dispose of contaminated waste. Dispose of contaminated bandages and coverings by placing them in a contaminated waste bag. Seal the bag and place it in the contaminated waste dump.

h. Step 8. Transfer the patient across the shuffle pit.

(1) The patient's clothing has been cut away; his skin, bandages, and splints have been decontaminated. Now the litter is transferred to the shuffle pit and placed upon the litter stands. The shuffle pit is wide enough to prevent the patient decontamination team members from straddling it while carrying the litter. Four decontamination team members transfer the patient to a clean treatment litter in the shuffle pit. A member of the patient decontamination team removes the bagged FMC and holds it so that a trauma specialist on the clean side of the hot line can read it. A trauma specialist on the clean side of the hot line prepares a new FMC before the patient is moved to the clean area. The old FMC is disposed of with other contaminated waste.

(2) Decontamination team members rinse or wipe down their aprons and gloves with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution.

(3) Three decontamination team members lift the patient off the decontamination litter (see [Step 6] for lifting procedures).

(4) While the patient is elevated, another decontamination team member removes the litter from the stands and returns it to the decontamination area. A trauma specialist from the clean side of the shuffle pit replaces the litter with a clean one. The patient is lowered onto the clean litter. Two trauma specialists from the clean side of the shuffle pit move the patient to the clean treatment area. The patient is treated in this area or waits for processing into the CPS. The litter removed by the decontamination team member is wiped down with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution in preparation for reuse.

NOTE

Before decontaminating another patient, each decontamination team member drinks approximately one-half quart of water. The exact amount of water consumed is increased or decreased according to the temperature (see [Table G-2] below).

Table G-2. Heat Injury Prevention and Water Consumption.

EASY WORKMODERATE WORKHARD WORK
HEAT CATEGORYWBGT INDEX DEGREES FWORK/ REST MINWATER INTAKE QT/HRWORK/ REST MINWATER INTAKE QT/HRWORK/ REST MINWATER INTAKE QT/HR
1 (WHITE)78-81.9NL½NL¾40/20¾
2 (GREEN)82-84.9NL½50/10¾30/301
3 (YELLOW)85-87.9NL¾40/20¾30/301
4 (RED)88-89.9NL¾30/30¾20/401
5 (BLACK)>9050/10120/40110/501
THE WORK/REST TIMES AND FLUID REPLACEMENT VOLUMES WILL SUSTAIN PERFORMANCE AND HYDRATION FOR AT LEAST 4 HOURS OF WORK IN THE SPECIFIED HEAT CATEGORY.
NL=NO LIMIT TO WORK TIME PER HOUR.
REST MEANS MINIMAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY (SITTING OR STANDING) ACCOMPLISHED IN SHADE, IF POSSIBLE.
CAUTION: HOURLY FLUID INTAKE SHOULD NOT EXCEED 1 QUART.
DAILY FLUID INTAKE SHOULD NOT EXCEED 12 QUARTS.
WEARING BODY ARMOR ADDS 5° F TO WBGT INDEX.
WEARING ALL MOPP OVERGARMENTS ADDS 10° F TO WBGT INDEX.

WARNING

Do not exceed a fluid intake of 1 quart per hour. Do not exceed a fluid intake of 12 quarts per day.

G-11. Decontaminate an Ambulatory Chemical Agent Patient

a. All ambulatory patients requiring EMT or ATM in the clean area of the BAS will be decontaminated. A member of the decontamination team or other ambulatory patients will assist the patient in removing his clothing and decontaminating his skin.

b. Patients requiring only minimal care will undergo spot decontamination of their MOPP gear as required for their medical treatment. They will be treated in the contaminated EMT area and returned to duty. They will undergo decontamination and a MOPP gear exchange with their unit.

c. Stable patients not requiring treatment at the BAS, but requiring evacuation to a higher level of care for treatment (example: A patient with a broken arm) should be evacuated in MOPP Level 4 by any available transportation. However, before evacuation, spot remove all thickened/persistent agents from protective clothing.

NOTES

1. Remember, do not remove clothing from an ambulatory patient unless he requires treatment in the clean treatment area of the BAS or clearing station. Only spot decontaminate the patient's clothing and evacuate him to the next level of care.

2. Place cutting device used in this procedure in a container of 5 percent hypochlorite solution when not in use. Most ambulatory patients will be treated in the contaminated treatment area and returned to duty. Upon removal of an ambulatory patient's clothing, he becomes a litter patient. The BAS and clearing station do not have clothing to replace those cut off during the decontamination process. The patient must be placed in a PPW for protection during evacuation. A battery operated blower unit with a CB filter may be attached to the PPW to provide fresh air to the patient; thus reducing the carbon dioxide buildup inside the PPW (Figure G-7).

Figure G-7. Chemical warfare agent protective patient wrap.

d. Step 1. Remove load-carrying equipment. Remove load-carrying equipment (LCE) by unfastening/unbuttoning all connectors or tie straps; then place the equipment in a plastic bag. Place the plastic bag in the designated storage area for later decontamination.

e. Step 2. Decontaminate the patient's mask and hood. After the patient has been triaged and treated (if necessary) by the senior trauma specialist in the PDS, the patient (assisted by another ambulatory patient or a member of the patient decontamination team, if necessary) begins the clothing removal process.

(1) Decontaminate and remove mask hood. Sponge down the front, sides, and top of the hood with a 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Remove the hood by cutting ([Figure G-3]) or, with the quick-doff hood or other hoods, by loosening the hood from the mask attachment points. Before cutting the hood, dip the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Begin by cutting the neck cord and the small string under the voicemitter. Next, release or cut the hood shoulder straps and unzip the hood zipper. Proceed by cutting the hood upward, close to the filter inlet cover and eye-lens outserts, to the top of the eye-lens outsert, across the forehead to the outer edge of the other eye-lens outsert. Proceed downward toward the patient's shoulder, staying close to the eye-lens and filter inlet. Cut across the lower part of the voicemitter to the zipper. After dipping the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution again, cut the hood from the center of the forehead over the top of the head and fold the right and left sides of the hood away from the patient's head, removing the hood.

(2) Decontaminate the mask and patient's face. Decontaminate the mask and the patient's face by using the SDK or a 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution. Wipe the external parts of the mask; cover both mask air inlets with gauze or your hands to keep the mask filters dry. Continue by wiping the exposed areas of the patient's face, to include the neck and behind the ears.

f. Step 3. Remove Field Medical Card. Cut the FMC tie wire, allowing the card to fall into a plastic bag. Seal the plastic bag and rinse it with the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Place the plastic bag under the back of the protective mask head straps.

g. Step 4. Remove all gross contamination from the patient's overgarment. Remove all visible contamination spots by using the SDK (preferred method) or a sponge dipped in a 5 percent hypochlorite solution.

h. Step 5. Remove overgarments.

(1) Remove the patient's personal effects. Place the patient's personal effects in a clean bag and label with the patient's identification. If they are not contaminated, give them to him. If his personal effects are contaminated, place the bagged items in the contaminated storage area until they can be decontaminated, then return them to the patient.

(2) Remove overgarment jacket. Have the patient stand with his feet spread apart at shoulder width. Unsnap the jacket front flap and unzip the jacket. If the patient can extend his arms, have him clinch his fists and extend his arms backward at about a 30° angle. Move behind the patient, grasping his jacket collar at the sides of the neck, peel the jacket off the shoulders at a 30° angle down and away from the patient. Avoid any rapid or sharp jerks that can spread contamination. Gently pull the inside sleeves over the patient's wrists and hands. If the patient cannot extend his arms, you must cut the jacket to aid in its removal. Dip the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution between each cut. As with the litter patient, cut both sleeves from the inside, starting at the wrist, up to the armpit. Continue cutting across the shoulder to the collar. Cut around bandages or splints, leaving them in place. Next, peel the jacket back and downward to avoid spreading contamination. Ensure that the outside of the jacket does not touch the patient or his inner clothing.

(3) Remove overgarment trousers. Unfasten or cut all ties, buttons, or zippers before grasping the trousers at the waist and peeling them down over the patient's combat boots. Again, the trousers are cut to aid in removal. If necessary, cut both trouser legs starting at the ankle, keeping the cuts near the inside of the legs, along the inseam, to the crotch. Cut around all bandages, tourniquets, or splints. Continue to cut up both sides of the zipper to the waist and allow the narrow strip with the zipper to drop between the legs. Place the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Peel or allow the trouser halves to drop to the ground. Have the patient step out of the trouser legs, one at a time. Place the trousers in the contaminated disposal bag.

(4) Remove overboots. Remove the patient's overboots by cutting the laces with cutting device dipped in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Fold the lacing eyelets flat on the ground. Step on the toe and heel eyelets to hold the overboot on the ground and have the patient step out of it. Repeat this procedure for the other overboot. If the GVO are worn, first try to remove the overboots without cutting; if necessary, cut the overboots along the front. If the overboots are in good condition, they can be decontaminated and reissued.

(5) Remove the patient's outer gloves. Grasp the heel of the glove, peel the glove off with a smooth downward motion. Place the contaminated gloves in a plastic bag with the overgarment jacket. Do not allow the patient to touch his clothing or other contaminated objects with his exposed hands.

(6) Remove the patient's cotton glove liners. Have the patient remove his cotton glove liners to reduce the possibility of spreading contamination. Have the patient grasp the heel of one glove liner with the other gloved hand, peeling it off of his hand. Hold the removed glove by the inside and grasp the heel of the other glove, peeling it off of his hand. Place both glove inserts in the contaminated waste bag.

i. Step 6. Remove patients BDU.

(1) Remove the patient's personal effects. Place the patient's personal effects in a clean bag and label with the patient's identification. If they are not contaminated, give them to him. If his personal effects are contaminated, place the bagged items in the contaminated storage area until they can be decontaminated, then return them to the patient.

(2) Remove BDU jacket. Have the patient stand with his feet spread apart at shoulder width. Unbutton the front flap of the jacket. If the patient can extend his arms, have him clinch his fists and extend his arms backward at about a 30° angle. Move behind the patient, grasping his jacket collar at the sides of the neck, peel the jacket off the shoulders at a 30° angle down and away from the patient. Avoid any rapid or sharp jerks that can spread contamination. Gently pull the inside sleeves over the patient's wrists and hands. If the patient cannot extend his arms, you must cut the jacket to aid in its removal. Dip the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution between each cut. As with the litter patient, cut both sleeves from the inside, starting at the wrist, up to the armpit. Continue cutting across the shoulder to the collar. Cut around bandages or splints, leaving them in place. Next, peel the jacket back and downward to avoid spreading contamination. Ensure that the outside of the jacket does not touch the patient or his inner clothing.

(3) Remove BDU trousers. Unfasten or cut all ties, buttons, or zippers before grasping the trousers at the waist and peeling them down over the patient's combat boots. Again, the trousers are cut to aid in removal. If necessary, cut both trouser legs starting at the ankle, keeping the cuts near the inside of the legs, along the inseam, to the crotch. Cut around all bandages, tourniquets, or splints. Continue to cut up both sides of the zipper to the waist and allow the narrow strip with the zipper to drop between the legs. Place the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution. Peel or allow the trouser halves to drop to the ground. Have the patient step out of the trouser legs, one at a time. Place the trousers in the contaminated disposal bag.

(4) Remove undergarments. Remove the patient's tee shirt. Dip the cutting device in the 5 percent hypochlorite solution between each cut. Cut both sleeves from the inside, starting at the elbow, up to the armpit. Continue cutting across the shoulder to the collar. Cut around bandages or splints, leaving them in place. Next, peel the tee shirt away from the body to avoid spreading contamination. If the patient is wearing a brassiere, cut it between the cups. Cut both shoulder straps where they attach to the cups and lay them back off of the shoulders. Remove the patient's under shorts/panties by cutting from the lower side of the hip to the waist on both sides. Allow the shorts/panties to fall to the ground. Do not remove the patient's identification tags.

j. Step 7. Check patient for contamination. After the patient's BDU and underwear has been removed check the skin for contamination by using M8 detector paper or the CAM. Carefully survey all areas of the patient's skin, paying particular attention to areas around the neck, wrist, ears, and dressings, splints, or tourniquets.

k. Step 8. Decontaminate skin.

(1) Spot decontamination. Use the SDK or the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution to spot decontaminate exposed neck and wrist areas, splints, other areas where the protective overgarment was damaged, and where dressings or bandages were removed. Decontaminate the patient's identification tags, if necessary. Have the patient hold his breath and close his eyes. Have him, or assist him, lift his mask at the chin. Wipe his face with the M291 pad or the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution. Wipe quickly from below the top of one ear, being careful to wipe all folds of the skin, top of the upper lip, chin, dimples, earlobes, and nose. Continue up the other side of the face to the top of the other ear. Wipe the inside of the mask where it touches the face. Have the patient reseal and check his mask.

CAUTION

Keep the decontamination solution out of the patient's eyes.

(2) Trauma specialist care. During clothing removal, the clothing around bandages, tourniquets, and splints was cut and left in place.

l. Step 9. Dispose of contaminated waste. Dispose of contaminated bandages and coverings by placing them in a plastic bag and sealing the bag with tape. Place the plastic bags in the contaminated waste dump.

m. Step 10. Proceed through the shuffle pit to the clean treatment area. Have the decontaminated patient proceed through the shuffle pit to the clean treatment area. Make sure that the patient's boots are thoroughly decontaminated by stirring the contents of the shuffle pit with his boots as he crosses it. The patient will remove his combat boots and socks at the entrance of the clean treatment area or CPS; remove the protective mask at the entrance to the clean treatment area or inside the ambulatory air lock of the CPS.

G-12. Biological Patient Decontamination Procedures

The decontamination station as established for chemical agent patients is also used for biologically contaminated patients. The eight-man patient decontamination team is required for biologically contaminated patient decontamination procedures.

G-13. Decontaminate a Litter Biological Agent Patient

a. Remove the patient's personal effects. Place the patient's personal effects in a clean bag and label with the patient's identification. If they are not contaminated, give them to him. If his personal effects are contaminated, place the bagged items in the contaminated storage area until they can be decontaminated, and then return them to the patient.

b. Remove the Field Medical Card. Remove the FMC by cutting the tie wire and allowing the FMC to drop into a plastic bag. Keep the FMC with the patient.

c. Remove the patient's clothing. Patient decontamination team members first apply the 5 percent hypochlorite solution to the patient's clothing and the litter. Then, remove the patient's clothing as in decontamination of chemical agent patients. Bandages, tourniquets, and splints are not removed. Move patient to a clean litter as described for a chemical agent patient. Place patient's clothing in a plastic bag and dispose in the contaminated waste dump.

d. Decontaminate the patient's skin. Bathe the patient with soap and warm water or apply the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution. The trauma specialist places a new tourniquet ½ to 1 inch above the old tourniquet, and then he removes the old one. The trauma specialist removes bandages and decontaminates the skin and wound with the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution; he replaces the bandage, if needed, to control hemorrhage. Splints are disinfected by soaking the splint, cravats, and straps with the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution.

NOTE

Use a 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution to decontaminate patients suspected of being contaminated with mycotoxins.

e. Transfer patient to hot line. Two decontamination team members move patient to the hot line. Request assistance from two other decontamination team members to transfer him to a clean litter as described for chemical agent patients. Place the patient's FMC in the plastic bag on the clean litter with him. Two trauma specialists from the clean side of the hot line move the patient from the hot line to the clean treatment/holding area.

G-14. Decontaminate an Ambulatory Biological Agent Patient

a. Remove the patient's personal effects. Place the patient's personal effects in a clean bag and label with the patient's identification. If they are not contaminated, give them to him. If his personal effects are contaminated, place the bagged items in the contaminated storage area until they can be decontaminated, then return them to the patient.

b. Remove the Field Medical Card. Remove the FMC by cutting the tie wire and allowing the FMC to drop into a plastic bag. Keep the FMC with the patient.

c. Remove the patient's clothing. Patient decontamination team members first apply the 5 percent hypochlorite solution to the patient's clothing. Then remove the patient's clothing as in decontamination of chemical agent patients. Bandages, tourniquets, and splints are not removed. Place patient's clothing in a plastic bag and dispose in the contaminated waste dump.

d. Decontaminate the patient's skin. Have the patient bathe with soap and warm water or apply the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution. If the patient is unable to bathe himself, a member of the decontamination team must bathe him. The trauma specialist places a new tourniquet ½ to 1 inch above the old tourniquet, and then he removes the old one. The trauma specialist removes bandages and decontaminates the skin and wound with the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution; he replaces the bandage, if needed, to control hemorrhage. Splints are disinfected by soaking the splint, cravats, and straps with the 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution.

NOTE

Use a 0.5 percent hypochlorite solution to decontaminate ambulatory patients suspected of being contaminated with mycotoxins.

e. Direct patient across hot line. Direct the patient to cross the hot line to the clean treatment area. His boots must be decontaminated at the hot line before he enters the clean treatment area.

NOTES

1. Remember, do not remove clothing from an ambulatory patient unless he requires treatment in the clean treatment area of the BAS or clearing station. Only spot decontaminate the patient's clothing and evacuate him to the next level of care.

2. Place cutting device used in this procedure in a container of 5 percent hypochlorite solution when not in use. Most ambulatory patients will be treated in the contaminated treatment area and returned to duty. Upon removal of an ambulatory patient's clothing, he becomes a litter patient. The BAS and clearing station do not have clothing to replace those cut off during the decontamination process. The patient must be placed in a PPW for protection during evacuation ([Figure G-7]).

G-15. Decontaminate Nuclear-Contaminated Patients

The practical decontamination of nuclear-contaminated patients is easily accomplished without interfering with the required medical care.

NOTE

Patients must be monitored by using a radiac meter (AN/VDR2, AN/PDR27, or AN/PDR77) before, during, and after each step of the decontamination procedure.

G-16. Decontaminate a Litter Nuclear-Contaminated Patient

a. Remove patient's personal effects. Patient decontamination team members remove the patient's personal effects and place them in a plastic bag. Place plastic bag in a clean holding area.

b. Remove patient's clothing. Patient decontamination team members remove the patient's outer clothing as described for chemical agent patients. Do not remove bandages, tourniquets, or splints. Move the patient to a clean litter. Place the patient's contaminated clothing in a plastic bag and move the bagged clothing to the contaminated waste dump.

NOTE

Patients arriving at the MTF in MOPP will only have their MOPP removed. They can remain in their BDU unless contamination is found on it.

c. Spot decontaminate patient's skin. Wash exposed skin surfaces with soap and warm water. Wash the hair with soap and warm water, or clip the hair and wash the scalp with soap and warm water.

d. Transfer patient to hot line. Move the patient to the hot line. Two trauma specialists from the clean side of the hot line move the patient into the clean treatment area.

G-17. Decontaminate an Ambulatory Nuclear-Contaminated Patient

a. Remove patient's personal effects. Have the patient remove his personal effects and place them in a plastic bag.

b. Remove patient's outer clothing. Have the patient remove his outer clothing (or have a decontamination team member assist him). Place his contaminated clothing in a plastic bag and move the bagged clothing to the contaminated waste dump.

NOTE

Patients arriving at the MTF in MOPP will only have their MOPP removed. They can remain ambulatory in their BDU unless contamination is found on it.

c. Spot decontaminate patient's skin. Have the patient wash his exposed skin surfaces with soap and warm water. Wash his hair with soap and water, or clip the hair and wash the scalp with soap and water.

d. Transfer patient to hot line. Direct the patient to move to the hot line. Decontaminate his boots by stirring the shuffle pit contents with his feet before he crosses into the clean treatment area.

NOTE

If a new protective overgarment is not available, after treatment, the ambulatory patient must be placed in a PPW for protection during MEDEVAC to the next level of care MTF. Thus, he becomes a litter patient for evacuation.


[APPENDIX H]
FIELD EXPEDIENT PROTECTIVE SYSTEMS AGAINST NUCLEAR, BIOLOGICAL, AND CHEMICAL ATTACK

H-1. General

Medical units must have protection from NBC attack and contamination to survive and function effectively. The extent of protection provided is only limited by the resources available and efforts of unit personnel. Protection as simple as an individually dug foxhole or as elaborate as the subbasement of a concrete building may be used. Expedient protection from the effects of biological and chemical agents are usually much less labor intensive.

H-2. Protection Against Radiation

The level of protection from radiation is expressed in terms of shielding. Material is available on the battlefield to construct/prepare expedient fallout shelters that offer substantial shielding against gamma radiation (see [Table H-1]). Generally, the denser or heavier the material, the better shielding it offers. The degree of protection afforded by a fallout shelter is expressed as a "protection factor," or a "transmission factor." The protection factor is simply the fraction of the available radiation dose that penetrates the shelter and reaches those inside compared to the radiation received by an unprotected person. Thus, a protection factor of 2 indicates that an individual in the shelter receives one-half of the radiation dose he would receive if unprotected. A protection factor of 100 (associated with about six half-value thicknesses) indicates that only 1/100 or 1 percent of the radiation dose reaches the inside. Transmission factors are expressed in percentages, or in decimals. Either refers to that fraction of the ambient unshielded dose that is received by personnel within the shelter. Fallout gamma transmission factors for some common shelters are shown in [Table H-2].

Table H-1. Shielding Potential of Common Materials—Fallout Gamma Protection

MATERIAL1/2 VALUE LAYER THICKNESS[*]
STEEL1.8 CM(.7")
CONCRETE5.6 CM(2.2")
EARTH8.4 CM(3.3")
WATER12.2 CM(4.8")
WOOD22.4 CM(8.8")

[*] 1/2 VALUE LAYER THICKNESS—THICKNESS OF A GIVEN MATERIAL WHICH REDUCES THE DOSE OR DOSE RATE TO APPROXIMATELY ONE-HALF OF THAT FALLING UPON IT.

Table H-2. Transmission factors for Nuclear Radiation[*]

INITIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL SHIELDINGNEUTRONSGAMMARESIDUAL
BUILT-UP CITY AREA (IN OPEN)1.00.50.7
FOXHOLES0.30.20.1
FRAME HOUSE:
FIRST FLOOR1.00.90.5
BASEMENT0.50.30.1
MULTISTORY BUILDINGS:
TOP FLOOR1.00.90.1
INTERMEDIATE FLOORS0.90.90.02
LOWER FLOOR0.90.50.1
BASEMENT0.50.30.01
SHELTER, CLOSED 91 CM (3 FT)
(EARTH COVER)0.050.020.005
ARMORED VEHICLES:
ARMORED PERSONNEL CARRIER0.30.20.1
TANKS0.30.20.1
WOODED FOREST1.01.00.8
[*] INSIDE DOSE = TRANSMISSION FACTOR TIMES OUTSIDE DOSE.

H-3. Expedient Shelters for Protection Against Radiation

a. In many cases it will be unnecessary to construct field expedient or other types of fallout shelters. There are many structures and terrain features available that afford a degree of fallout protection. Existing fallout shelters are tunnels, caves, culverts, overpasses, ditches, ravines, and man-made structures. The best existing shelters are basements. [Figure H-1] shows typical protection provided in buildings. Windows can be sandbagged or covered with dirt from the outside to provide additional protection.

Figure H-1. Typical shelter protection provided in buildings.

b. Planners should attempt to locate HSS units near existing shelters, whenever possible. However, if an HSS unit is already established, or must be established where fallout shelters are not available, then a shelter must be constructed. Elaborate shelters are not required, since they usually only need to be occupied for a few days. There are a number of field expedients that will serve to save personnel and patients even though they may not be comfortable for those few days.

c. When engineer support is available, a bulldozer trench about 2.7 meters (9 feet) wide and 1.2 meters (4 feet) deep can be dug ([Figure H-2]). The length of the trench will be determined by the number of patients/personnel to be sheltered. About 0.6 meter (2 feet) length of trench is required for each person to be sheltered. These trenches reduce exposure of personnel lying on the floor to about 20 to 30 percent of the radiation that they would receive in the open. Protection and comfort can be improved, as time permits, by digging the trenches deeper; undercutting the walls (care must be taken in this option; the earth may cave in); erecting tents over the trenches; and providing improved flooring. When used with other individual and collective protection measures, bulldozer trenches provide adequate fallout shelters for most situations; they can be provided in a minimum of time and effort. Trenches should not be dug in areas subject to flooding during rainstorms; a berm should be formed on the uphill side of the trench to direct water around the trench in the event rainfall occurs in the area. Undercutting will not be possible in sandy soil; also some form of support to keep the walls from caving in is required.

Figure H-2. Dozer trench.

d. Dug-in tents ([Figure H-3]) for hospitals provide more comfort and require less movement than the bulldozer trench; however, they have two drawbacks. First, they offer far less radiation protection than the bulldozer trench, and second, they require considerably more engineer effort. This option should work well with GP tents, but will probably be hard to accomplish with the TEMPER.

Figure H-3. Dug-in tents.

e. Sandbagged walls around the hospital tents, as shown in [Figure H-4], or lightly constructed buildings provide protection from fallout. Sandbagged walls 1.2 meters high give significant protection (20 to 40 percent transmission factor); however, the effort required to achieve the protection is such that it is marginally feasible. Sandbagging is an effective means for supplementing other shelters by—

f. When other shelters are not available, HSS units must prepare foxholes and trenches for patients and unit personnel. As time permits, improve these shelters by deepening, covering, undercutting, and sandbagging.

Figure H-4. Sandbag walls around tents.

H-4. Expedient Shelters Against Biological and Chemical Agents

a. When CPS systems are not available, well-sealed shelters (TEMPER, ISO, and GP) can significantly minimize or prevent the entry of CB agents. The ventilation system must be turned off, and kept off, before, during, and after the attack. The shelter must be totally sealed during this time to maximize protection. [Table H-3] provides examples of protection values for well-sealed shelters. For example, a well-sealed TEMPER will only permit 1/60 of the CB agent outside to enter the shelter. If a persistent agent is used, be aware of agent off-gassing hazards. Persistent agents can penetrate TEMPER fabric and create a vapor hazard inside. In a CB agent attack, ensure that all staff and patients are protected by wearing their MOPP or are in PPWs.

Table H-3. Ratio at Nonpersistent Agent Concentrations (Inside/Outside) for Different Shelters

SHELTERRATIO INSIDE/ OUTSIDE
TEMPER TENT1:60[*]
GENERAL PURPOSE TENT, MEDIUM, WITH COTTON LINER1:50
GENERAL PURPOSE TENT, LARGE, WITH COTTON LINER1:30
ISO SHELTER1:60
[*] THE VENTILATION SYSTEM MUST BE TURNED OFF ON ALL SHELTERS TO PROVIDE THIS LEVEL OF PROTECTION.

b. Sealing shelters to prevent entry of CB agents does not require elaborate materials or procedures.

(1) Materials needed for sealing shelters include, but are not limited to the following:

(2) All vulnerable areas must be sealed. Seal—

NOTES

1. Do not allow any entries/exits to shelters during a CB attack.

2. In hot climates the heat load will rise in sealed shelters with the ventilation system turned off. Personnel must carefully monitor each other and the patients. All personnel must drink plenty of water to prevent heat injuries; see FM 21-10.


[APPENDIX I]
DETECTION AND TREATMENT OF NUCLEAR, BIOLOGICAL, AND CHEMICAL CONTAMINATION IN WATER

I-1. General

Water supplies in areas with NBC contamination and in surface water supplied by runoff from such areas will most likely be contaminated. The contamination of water, whether intentional or inadvertent, may reach concentrations that will produce casualties. By special methods of analysis, the presence of contamination can be determined. Treatment of contaminated water requires chemicals and equipment that are only available to quartermaster water purification units; individuals or units should not attempt to treat their water. Decontamination of water is only undertaken when uncontaminated sources are not available; then ONLY with the approval of the medical authority (PVNTMED or surgeon).

I-2. Detection of Contamination in Water

a. Detection of nuclear contamination in water is accomplished by using the AN/PDR77, AN PDR/27 or AN VDR/2 radiac meters.

CAUTION

DO NOT allow the probe to come into contact with the water source; allow at least one inch of air space between the probe and water surface.

b. Detection of BW agents in water is accomplished by the use of field biological water test kits and specially designed collection and detection kits. The specialty kits will be provided as needed, and will be available to PVNTMED and supporting medical laboratory personnel. When required for the President and Secretary of Defense purpose, samples must be collected and prepared for shipment to the supporting medical laboratory. A chain of custody document must be prepared by the collector and maintained as the sample(s) is being transported to the supporting medical laboratory and throughout its transit to the CONUS laboratory. See [Appendix F] for details on suspect BW sample collection, packaging, chain of custody, and handling.

c. The Chemical Agent Water Testing Kit, M272, provides a rapid field test to detect chemical agent contamination in water. The test must be conducted before the water is treated with chlorine; the chlorine will affect the accuracy of the test for chemical agents.

I-3. Procedures on Discovery of Contamination in Water

When contamination is discovered the following actions are taken:

a. Mark the water source, using the standard NBC contamination markers, and ensure that personnel do not consume the water until approved.

b. Notify the commander that the water source is contaminated and unfit for drinking, food preparation, and personal hygiene.

c. Notify the supporting water production unit, such as the quartermaster water production and distribution unit of the contaminated water source.

d. The commander establishes safeguards to prevent personnel from using the contaminated water supply.

e. An alternative source of uncontaminated water is sought and used. The primary source for obtaining water is from quartermaster-operated water production and distribution points. Other sources are considered only when quartermaster-operated faculties are not available. Alternative sources that may be considered include—

f. Contaminated water must not be used until it has been treated by quartermaster water production and distribution units or other equally capable water purification units and approved for use by the medical authority.

I-4. Treatment of Contaminated Water

Contaminated water requires additional equipment and supplies to remove the contamination. Quartermaster water purification and distribution units are equipped to perform these duties. See FM 10-52 for details.


[APPENDIX J]
FOOD CONTAMINATION AND DECONTAMINATION

J-1. General

a. Food Susceptibility. Stored, transported, and prepared food is susceptible to NBC contamination throughout the TO. Planning for any battle or operation must include food protection from contamination; food contamination detection; and contaminated food disposition (decontaminate or destroy).

b. Countermeasures. There are three primary countermeasures to overcome or reduce the NBC hazard to food:

(1) Contamination avoidance.

(2) Nuclear, biological, and chemical agent detection.

(3) Nuclear, biological, and chemical agent decontamination.

c. Priorities. The priorities for conducting NBC countermeasures are—

(1) Contamination avoidance. Contamination avoidance includes using natural and fabricated barriers to prevent, or significantly reduce the spread of contamination. Also, using specific procedures for entry and exit between contaminated and uncontaminated areas reduce the potential for spreading contamination. Use of these barriers and procedures may reduce the subsequent need for detection and decontamination.

(2) Detection, measurement, and identification. These activities are essential for determining the presence, extent, and nature of NBC contamination. This information is essential in identifying the existence of uncontaminated supplies, or decontamination requirements.

(3) Decontamination. Decontamination removes the contaminant and provides food that is safe for consumption.

d. Decontamination. Decontamination efforts require an extensive amount of labor, time, and supplies. The use of hasty decontamination is emphasized. That is, decontaminate just enough to sustain operations and keep fighting, rather than to make a contamination-free environment. Normally, decontamination efforts will be limited to the packaging and packing materials. Food decontamination will only occur in critical situations where other food supplies are not available. Most decontamination is performed in or very near the AO. Before beginning decontamination procedures, divide exposed food items into groups based on protection of item at time of exposure. These groups establish priorities based on ease of decontamination and the ability to monitor the food.

(1) Group I—Canned or packaged items exposed only to a chemical agent vapor.

(2) Group II—Canned or packaged items that are contaminated on the outside with a liquid chemical agent, a biological agent, or radioactive fallout.

(3) Group III—Unpacked or poorly packaged items that have been exposed to any NBC agent.

(4) Group IV—Food contaminated through the food chain.

J-2. Protection of Food from Contamination

An adequate defensive posture for a chemical attack will also protect food against biological contamination and radiation fallout.

a. Operational Rations. Operational rations include, but are not limited to, MREs; unit group ration (UGR), A; unit group ration, heat and serve; and medical diet supplement.

(1) Packaging materials and storage methods normally protect these rations. The packaging and packing of operational rations protect the contents from deterioration. As a result, the contents are protected from moisture, to include chemical liquids, chemical vapors, and biological agents. Operational rations delivered to an AO will usually have increased levels of packaging and/or packing protection. Operational rations are substantially protected while contained in the shipping cases, especially if protected with an overlay of fiberboard, shrink wrap, or film wrap.

(2) Enclosed storage is used whenever possible. Refrigerated warehouses, cold storage rooms, and even prefabricated refrigerators and trailers provide excellent protection. Underground shelters, caves, and tunnels that can be made airtight provide maximum NBC protection. Buildings provide protection depending on how well they can be closed and sealed. The basement of a building is a good storage place. However, keep in mind that chemical vapors tend to seek out low-lying areas. Storing rations indoors will protect them from liquid droplet and fallout contamination unless the building is damaged by an attack. Complete protection against chemical vapors is only offered by airtight closed spaces like cold storage facilities.

(3) Chemical protective measures are to be integrated into daily logistical operation to avoid the contamination of operational rations. Maximum use is made of alarm and detection equipment, overhead shelter, shielding materials, and protective covers. Back up stocks of operational rations should be dispersed to minimize the risk of destruction or contamination.

(4) An NBC Protective Cover or similar equipment will help greatly. The NBC Protective Cover is discarded and replaced upon becoming contaminated; it reduces overall decontamination requirements; and it improves the survivability of supplies and equipment. The NBC Protective Cover provides 24-hour protection against liquid chemical contamination. Detection paper used on the NBC Protective Cover will rapidly identify a contaminated cover.

b. Bulk and Fresh Foods.

(1) Field expedient or improvised storage may be the only choice available under high-risk conditions. Expedient storage for food supplies may be a natural or man-made depression lined to protect contents against moisture, and then covered with earth and sod. The earth gives good protection against all forms of chemical or biological contamination and nuclear fallout.

(2) Foods are only stored outdoors or in partially protected areas when absolutely necessary. Only cases of foods packed in cans, bottles, or airtight foil or film wraps, and foods packed in sealed boxes or multilayered wrappings can be subjected to exposed storage. Partial protection is provided by open sheds, temporary roofing, or tents. When subsistence must be stored in the open, give as much protection as possible. Protection material may include NBC Protective Covers, tarpaulins, tarpaulin sheds, or any other available covering such as plastic sheeting. Tarpaulins and other treated or waterproof coverings do not prevent contamination by chemical vapors, but they do reduce contamination from liquid agents. Canvas will keep out more than 95 percent of liquid contamination for a short period of time after the attack. The canvas must be removed soon after the attack to prevent the agent from seeping through onto the subsistence; placement of spacers between the covering and the food will greatly reduce this problem. Even the thinnest material will offer some protection and is better than nothing at all. Therefore, food supplies must be covered by whatever material is available.

J-3. Nuclear

a. Contamination.

(1) Following a nuclear detonation, food can become contaminated in three ways:

(2) Consumption of food contaminated with radioactive fallout may cause a risk of radiation injuries from internal radiation; that is, radiation from radioactive sources within the body. Most isotopes will pass through the digestive tract or be excreted very quickly. However, the intestinal tract may receive a considerable dose. Some isotopes are more hazardous because they are absorbed from the digestive tract and enter the metabolism of man and animals.

(3) Operational rations are safe when surface decontamination is performed before breaking the package. Operational rations stored close to ground zero may become radioactive from induced radiation. It is more likely, however, that the food will be damaged or destroyed by the blast and thermal effects of the nuclear explosion.

(4) Bulk and fresh food stored in the open without protection will be contaminated. Decontamination is very difficult and time-consuming. Efforts should be made to ensure proper packing to prevent food contamination from radioactive fallout. Packing made from hard and nonporous materials, such as plastic or multilayer cardboard with a smooth surface, should be used. In addition, storage facilities should be enclosed to avoid the entry of fallout. Any material used as a protective cover will give some protection against nuclear fallout. Protection against induced radiation, blast, and thermal effects requires a hardened shelter or underground storage.

(5) Food supplies require protection throughout the chain of production or procurement. Protection of the civilian-based food supply includes countermeasures along the production chain. Meats and milk are the most vulnerable products because of the possibility for concentration of radioactive isotopes (Strontium, Cesium, and Iodine). The primary, and possibly the only, protection of animal products is to keep the animals indoors and to avoid contaminated fodder. Immediate slaughter of food animals is recommended if there is a shortage of uncontaminated fodder. Also, food animals exposed to fallout should be considered fit for consumption and slaughtered using routine procedures. Unharvested crops cannot be protected.

b. Inspection and Monitoring.

(1) Fallout close to ground zero, especially after a surface burst, may be visible as dust. The presence of dust is an immediate indicator of contamination. Fallout on unprotected food produces a grittiness that is unpleasant and warns against eating the food. The degree and means of food protection (packaging and storage faculties) must be considered. Food in a building that remains intact should not receive enough contamination to be dangerous when eaten.

(2) Veterinary units have the AN/VDR2 Radiac Set and UDR13 dosimeter to conduct ground or aerial surveys for gamma radioactive contamination levels in an area. The measurement of the external gamma radiation in the fallout area is an indication, but not a quantitative measure, for the degree of hazard from food contamination. These units also use the AN/VDR2 Radiac Set for point detection of gamma and beta radiation sources. Food monitoring is conducted in an area with low background radiation. If the storage area is contaminated, the food must be moved to a cleaner area for monitoring. With the AN/VDR2, the initial food monitoring is performed with the probe cover in place and the probe passed approximately 6 inches from the surface. If the reading is twice the background dose rate, the food is considered contaminated. If the reading is not above the background level but contamination is still suspected, place the probe closer to the food with the beta probe cover off. Monitor meat and fish with the probe cover off; pass the probe approximately one-half inch from the surface of the food.

(3) Monitoring food contaminated through the food chain is more complicated; depending on the detection instrument used, special procedures must be followed. Gamma and beta emitting radionuclides in small volumes may be detected using radiac sets such as the AN/VDR2; however, alpha emitting ones cannot. They are rough instruments and may be used only for screening surface contaminated food. To evaluate the hazards; the isotopes contributing to the radioactivity must be identified. Surface contaminated food will contain a mixture of isotopes with some more hazardous than others, depending upon whether they are used by the body. Milk will contain mostly I-131, Cs-137, Sr-89, and Sr-90. Meat and fish will contain mostly Cs-137. To verify I-131, Cs-137, Sr-89, and Sr-90 contamination, samples must be sent to laboratories equipped to analyze the samples.

(4) All newly selected food supplies must be surveyed. Begin continuous monitoring immediately following receipt of a fallout warning, or when increased levels of radiation are detected by periodic monitoring.

(5) Periodic monitoring is needed to establish baseline levels of background radiation in the environment and various food products. This monitoring is performed during peacetime, when possible, and throughout the time US forces are deployed in a TO.

NOTE

The AN/VDR2 is being replaced by the AN/PDR77 Radiac Set.

c. Decontamination. There are two methods for nuclear decontamination: aging and removing. Aging is the process of allowing natural radiation decay to occur. The time necessary for this decay to take place depends upon the isotopes present; each has a different decay rate (half-life). Aging may not be possible when there is a short food supply. In some instances, such as with induced radioactivity, it may be the only way to decontaminate. Removing nuclear contamination from areas, personnel, food, or moving equipment to another location eliminates the immediate hazard. To determine which decontamination method is required, food supplies are divided into groups. See [Table J-1] for additional information on food items and decontamination.

(1) Group II—Food in sealed and dust-proof packing such as cans, jars, fiberboard, and cellophane. These products are easily decontaminated by removing the radioactive dust covering the packing; brush, wash with soap and water, or remove the packing (depending on the type of packing material). If radiation is still detected after removing the dust, repeat the brush/wash procedure and remonitor. If radiation is still present, the food itself is then considered radioactive (induced radiation) and is unfit for consumption. Decontamination of induced radiation is possible only through aging. After aging one to two weeks, the food should be safe for consumption. After surface decontamination, the contents are safe to eat unless the food has induced radiation.

(2) Group III—Unprotected food. The method chosen to decontaminate unprotected food items will depend upon whether or not the food supply is critical. If the food supply is not critical, the contaminated items are isolated and allowed to decontaminate by aging. If the food supply is critical, food with surface contamination can, in principle, be decontaminated by removing the contaminated surface, or by washing.

(3) Some products can be decontaminated by washing, peeling, or trimming the outer skin or leaves. Decontaminate potatoes and hard-skinned fruits and vegetables by washing or scrubbing under running water, followed by peeling or scraping, then washing again. Potatoes, carrots, beets, and turnips can be washed at the supply depot. However, do not wash beans, rice, and onions until they are delivered to the field kitchen; washing reduces their storage quality and shelf life. Citrus fruits, pineapples, corn, peas, beans, melons, pumpkins, cabbage, and nuts can be peeled. Decontaminate cucumbers, tomatoes, cherries, cranberries, grapes, pears, plums, and thin-skinned squash by soaking in a water or detergent solution and rinsing with vigorous agitation or brushing. Apricots, peaches, most berries, asparagus, broccoli, and leafy vegetables cannot be satisfactorily decontaminated because of fuzzy surfaces, irregular shapes, or small size, which makes washing difficult.

Table J-1. Decontamination of Food Supplies

SURFACE OR MATERIALTYPE OF CONTAMINATION
CHEMICALBIOLOGICALNUCLEAR
CANNED, BOTTLED, OR PROTECTED BY IMPERMEABLE CONTAINER.IMMERSE IN BOILING, SOAPY WATER FOR 30 MINUTES AND RINSE.WASH WITH SOAP AND WATER, THEN IMMERSE IN DISINFECTANT SOLUTION. (IMMERSE IN BOILING WATER FOR 30 MINUTES. FOOD DISINFECTANT, OR 1/3 CANTEEN CUP OF HOUSEHOLD BLEACH IN 10 GAL OF WATER).WASH WITH SOAP AND WATER, RINSE.
BRUSH, WIPE CHLORINE, FOOD CONTAMINATION FROM SURFACE OF CONTAINER.
SPRAY WITH DS2 AND RINSE
WASH IN HOT, SOAPY WATER, RINSE, AND AERATE.BOIL IN WATER 15 MINUTES; NOT EFFECTIVE ON TOXINS AND SOME SPORES.
IMMERSE IN 5% SODIUM CARBONATE (4 LB WASHING SODA IN 10 GAL WATER), RINSE WITH POTABLE WATER.
IMMERSE IN HOUSEHOLD BLEACH SOLUTION (1/2 GAL BLEACH IN 25 GAL WATER) FOR 30 MINUTES THEN RINSE AND AERATE FOR 10 MINUTES.
IMMERSE IN HTH SOLUTION (1/2 LB IN 25 GAL WATER) 20 MINUTES, THEN RINSE.
IMMERSE IN STB SOLUTION (1 LB IN 25 GAL WATER) 30 MINUTES, THEN RINSE.
IMMERSE IN 2% PERACETIC ACID FOR 10 MINUTES, RINSE, AND AERATE FOR 10 MINUTES.
NOT CANNED OR IMPERMEABLE CONTAINER.FOOD KNOWN OR SUSPECTED TO BE CONTAMINATED SHOULD NOT BE CONSUMED UNTIL APPROVED BY VETERINARY PERSONNEL.BOIL IN WATER 15 MINUTES.
COOK.
IMMERSE IN OR SPRAY WITH 2% HOUSEHOLD BLEACH SOLUTION. PACKAGED, PEELED, OR PARED FOOD MAY BE IMMERSED OR SPRAYED.
WASH OR TRIM CONTAMINATION FROM UNPACKAGED FOOD.

(4) Group IV—Food contaminated through the food chain. It is not practical to decontaminate this food. Meat and milk are the two most common foodstuffs contaminated in this way.

(5) Food animals. Food animals that have been exposed to fallout should be considered fit for consumption and slaughtered using routine inspection and slaughter procedures. In those cases where the animal has been exposed to fallout, but is not scheduled for immediate slaughter, the radiation burden can be reduced by moving the animal to an uncontaminated area (barn if available) and washing it with soap and water. Mild radiation sickness does not necessarily mean that the animals cannot be used for food. If the animals have been exposed to an internal radiation hazard, the meat can be eaten if the internal organs are discarded. Chickens that have eaten radioactive material may lay contaminated eggs, but most of the radioactivity will be concentrated in the shells. The white and yolk will be free of harmful amounts of radiation and can be eaten. Chickens will not lay eggs if the radioactive body burden is large enough that their eggs are unfit to eat.

Table J-2. Traditional Salt Preserving Brine

MEAT, WHOLE 4-5 KG
25% NaCl (SALT) BRINE 5-LITER BRINE PER KG.
KEEP MEAT IN BRINE FOR 3 WEEKS, TEMPERATURE BELOW 10°C.
SOAK IN WATER FOR 1-2 DAYS.
65-70% OF CS ACTIVITY WILL BE REMOVED.
MEAT, CUT 1-2 KG
25% NaCl BRINE 5-LITER BRINE PER KG.
KEEP MEAT IN BRINE FOR 4 DAYS.
SOAK IN WATER FOR 4 HOURS.
65-70% OF CS ACTIVITY WILL BE REMOVED.
MUTTON/LAMB RIB
PIECE OF RIB 1-5 KG.
25% NaCl BRINE 5-LITER BRINE PER KG.
KEEP IN BRINE FOR 2 DAYS.
SOAK IN WATER FOR 2 HOURS.
AIR-DRYING FOR 10 DAYS.
SOAK IN WATER FOR 2 HOURS.
BOIL IN WATER FOR 3 HOURS.
85-90% CS ACTIVITY WILL BE REMOVED.
DECONTAMINATION OF COARSELY CHOPPED MEAT
0.9% NaCl SOLUTION. 2-LITER SOLUTION PER KG.
SOAK IN NaCl SOLUTION FOR 10 MIN.
60-70% CS ACTIVITY WILL BE REMOVED.
REPEATED PROCEDURES WILL REMOVE THE SAME PERCENTAGE OF CS ACTIVITY.
SIX TIMES REPEATED TREATMENT WILL REMOVE NEARLY 100% OF CS ACTIVITY.

d. Considerations When Decontamination is Not Possible. When food cannot be decontaminated, sealing the product in a wrapping material or container may be needed. Sealing the product can reduce or shield the emanation of the contamination and/or fix the contamination in place. The hazard from contaminated food is small compared with that from external gamma radiation. Hungry people or animals should not be denied food because of possible fallout contamination. It is not practicable or desirable to preset maximum permissible limits of gross fallout radioactivity as a basis for judging whether or not food should be used. Common sense must be applied in establishing priorities for distribution of available food. For example, use the least contaminated and the most protected food first; hold milk products for 1 to 2 weeks before use.

J-4. Biological

a. Contamination. Biological warfare agents exist in the form of toxins and microorganisms. The normal packaging and packing of food (to protect against moisture, dust, and bacterial or other contamination) provides protection against most biological agents. The exception may be toxins and biologically derived substances. However, the protective methods used for chemical agents will also protect against toxins and derived substances. Food in freezers, refrigerators, and in refrigerated trucks or rail cars will be safe if these containers remain sealed until the outer surfaces are decontaminated.

(1) It is unlikely that a biological agent will affect the appearance, taste, or smell of the food enough for the change to be apparent.

(2) Packaging and packing materials are not life supportive to pathogenic agents and are, therefore, self-decontaminating with the exception of spore-forming organisms.

(3) Most operational rations are packaged in metal containers, or encased in heavy aluminum laminated plastics that can withstand boiling water; also, they are impervious to arthropod penetration. This food is highly resistant to biological agents.

(4) The use of unpackaged items (unwrapped meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables) should be restricted; use only operational rations. Unprotected fresh food stored in the open and close to the source of dissemination will become contaminated.

b. Detection.

(1) Rapid identification of agents used is absolutely essential to implement effective countermeasures. Agent identification must be achieved quickly; it is the first step in answering critical management questions. What adjustments must be made in food preparation and distribution? What are the essential countermeasures? What is the expected outcome of the incident?

(2) Samples of food that are suspected of being contaminated are transported to the designated supporting laboratory. Samples must be accompanied by a description of the samples, the sample collection procedures, and the circumstances, which prompted the collection. The designated medical laboratory in the TO will provide a field confirmation identification of the agent(s). Designated CONUS laboratories accomplish definitive identification. See [Appendix B] for sampling procedures.

NOTE

New biological detection equipment is under development that will enable units to conduct presumptive identification of biological warfare agents. However, samples must also be collected and processed as described in [Appendix B].

c. Decontamination.

(1) Food contaminated with toxins is handled in the same manner as food contaminated with chemical agents. Food contaminated with microorganisms is handled in the same manner as when contaminated with the more common foodborne disease-producing microorganisms.

(2) Several methods are available to decontaminate food items contaminated with biological agents. The following decontamination methods are considered to be the minimum. See [Table J-1.]

(3) Group II food that is sealed in containers that are resistant to the passage of biological agents requires only that the exterior of the container be decontaminated. Decontamination of these items is as follows:

(a) For containers made of metal, glass, plastic, or porcelain:

1. Thoroughly wash the container in potable water and soap, or in a disinfectant solution. If the water used for washing is contaminated, the soap and water wash may increase, not reduce, the contamination hazard. After which, the food containers are immersed in a disinfectant solution for 30 minutes (see [Table J-3]); then rinsed with potable water, if available and time permits. Chlorine solutions are not as reactive or corrosive as DS2.

2. Place the containers in boiling soapy water for 15 minutes; then rinse with potable water.

NOTES

1. The chemical field decontamination kits do not meet the requirements to decontaminate food supplies exposed to biological agents.

2. The same procedures should be followed even if there is only suspicion of a biological warfare attack.

(b) Thoroughly wipe containers that will not withstand soaking with a cloth soaked in a chlorine detergent solution. Remove the food from the container and place it in Group III.

(c) Metal or glass containers determined to have trichothecenes (Yellow Rain) present can be decontaminated using DS2. Allow a contact time of 5 to 30 minutes for the DS2 to neutralize the toxin. Then rinse the container with potable water.

(4) Group III food items that are not protected by the packaging material are decontaminated or disposed of as follows:

(a) Decontaminate foods that can be peeled or pared by immersing them in a disinfectant solution for 30 minutes, and then rinsing them with potable water (see [Table J-3]). Peel or pare the items after decontamination, then wash and, if appropriate, cook before eating.

(b) With the exception of certain heat-stable toxins, heat is the most practical means of decontaminating food. Several heating methods may be used, but the method chosen depends upon the type of food to be decontaminated. The key is to apply as much heat as possible without rendering the food unfit.

1. Cook in a pressure-type cooker with 15 pounds of pressure at 250°F (121°C) for 15 minutes.

2. Cook in a low-pressure cooker at 228°F (109°C) for 1 hour.

3. Bake bread or related items at 400°F (204°C) for 40 minutes.

CAUTION

Bread made with toxin-contaminated flour (especially with trichothecenes) is still toxic.

4. Bake or roast meat at 325°F (163°C) for 2 hours.

5. Boil for at least 15 minutes when no other method is available.

(c) Although decontamination methods are provided above, vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower, or unwrapped meats that have been exposed to biological agents should not be eaten.

(d) Foods, such as butter, ice cream, and bread that will not withstand any of the above treatments must be destroyed.

(5) Established meat inspection procedures are followed when animals exposed to biological agents must be used for food. The meat must be thoroughly cooked.

Table J-3. Chlorine Solutions for Decontamination of Biological Warfare Agents

CHLORINE SOURCEMIXTURE TO PRODUCE 200 PPM SOLUTION OF AVAILABLE CHLORINE
HOUSEHOLD BLEACH1/2 GAL/25 GAL WATER
HIGH-TEST HYPOCHLORITE (CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE)1/2 LB/25 GAL WATER
SUPERTROPICAL BLEACH1 LB/25 GAL WATER

J-5. Chemical

a. Contamination.

(1) Contamination of foodstuffs by a chemical agent may occur at any point on the battlefield. This contact may render the food unpalatable also. In many cases, decontamination is difficult, thus, emphasis must be placed on protection. Keep food supplies covered at all times. Take special precautions to protect food that is not packed in protective packages. Unprotected food, forage, and grain supplies may be so contaminated that their consumption will produce gastrointestinal irritation, or systemic poisoning. Nerve agents, vesicants, and arsenicals are the most dangerous. Field concentrations of phosgene, hydrocyanic acid, irritants, and smokes will seldom be high enough to cause serious food contamination. The effect of CK on food is not known. As a precaution, foods exposed to CK should be considered toxic.

(2) The effects of chemical agents on food depend on the nature of the agent and the type of the food. The extent to which chemical agents penetrate food also depends on the amount, form of dispersal (liquid [droplet size], or vapor) and duration of exposure. Nerve agents and mustard will penetrate deeply into unprotected fatty foods and will readily penetrate granular products such as grain and sugar. Liquid food products can be completely contaminated. Arsenicals readily hydrolyze to poisonous arsenical oxides in some foods. Foods can be divided into three categories based on their water content, fat content, and crystalline structure:

(a) Foods having a high water content, a low fat content, and/or a crystalline structure (fresh vegetables, fruits, sugar, salt, and eggs) will absorb mustard and nerve agents, either as a liquid or as a vapor. Nerve agents will be hydrolyzed slowly.

(b) Foods having a low fat content and an irregular (amorphous) structure (flour, bread, grain, rice, cereals, dried fruits, dried vegetables, tea, coffee, peas, and beans) readily absorb mustard and nerve agents in liquid form. As a vapor, these agents are absorbed to some extent, but are easily removed by airing.

(c) Foods having a low water content and a high fat content, such as butter, fat, fatty oils, ham, cheese, milk, bacon, fatty meat, and fish, absorb mustard and nerve agents such that removal of the agents is virtually impossible.

(3) Chemical agents can be physically and chemically absorbed into food. In addition to the toxic effect, they often adversely affect taste, smell, and the appearance of the food. However, chemical agents can cause the food to become very toxic without causing any other changes in the food. [Table J-4] shows the effects of a number of chemical agents on food. Since food can be contaminated without any outward change in appearance, the possibility of contamination must be assumed in a chemical agent environment. Treat the food with the same precautions as established for known contaminated items.

(4) The protective properties of packaging materials are dependent upon a number of factors. The factors include the form of the agent (liquid versus vapor); concentration and exposure time; weather (temperature, wind speed, and humidity); and packaging material (the type of material, thickness, and the presence of folds, tears, and small holes). Even the thinnest material will offer some protection and is better than nothing at all. Therefore, always cover food supplies with whatever material is available. [Table J-5] summarizes the protection values of various packaging materials against vapors and liquids.

(a) Operational rations are substantially protected while contained in the shipping cases and especially if stored in the original palletized unit load with an overlay of fiberboard, shrink wrap, or film wrap. The worst case is pallets of subsistence contaminated by liquid droplets during an attack. After the attack, high vapor concentrations will exist in the vicinity of the palletized loads. If the outer barrier is permeable such as fiberboard, it is possible that a liquid agent can seep through the overlay fiberboard and contact the shipping containers in liquid form. Normally, with seepage resistant materials, such as shrink wrap as the outer barriers, only the vapors of the agent are found within the pallet.

(b) While MREs are stored, the food is protected by up to six layers of material. Multilayer barriers result in a complex diffusion process of the agent from the outside towards the interior. Vapor penetration into nonhermetically sealed spaces is a simple gaseous diffusion process. Permeation through packaging is a much more complex process regardless of whether the challenge is a liquid or a vapor.

1. Liquid is adsorbed into permeable materials such as fiberboard or chipboard. With permeation-resistant materials (such as shrink wrap), the agent dissolves into, seeps through, and then desorbs from the barrier material. Shrink wrap provides adequate protection. Fiberboard sheathing provides adequate protection against mustard agents, but not against nerve agents.

2. The low-density polyethylene used to construct the menu bag can absorb chemical agents and possibly toxins. If the menu bag is removed from the shipping container and is exposed to liquid contamination, enough agent may pass through the bag to create a health hazard. Keep MREs in the shipping container until issued to the soldier. The menu bags should then be kept under the same degree of protection as the soldier.

3. The aluminum-laminated materials used to construct the MRE (retort and nonretort) pouches protect food from chemical contamination if hermetically sealed. The only item in the MRE meal bag that is not adequately protected is the spoon.

(5) Mylar and cellophane are resistant to chemical agents.

Table J-4. Effects of Chemical Agents on Food

INFLUENCE ONRESIDUAL TOXICITY
AGENTTASTESMELLCOLOR
MUSTARDBADBADDISCOLORS MEAT+
N-MUSTARDSBADBADDOESN'T DISCOLOR MEAT+
ARSENICALSACIDBADDISCOLORS MEAT AND VEGETABLES+, ARSENIC
NERVE AGENTSBADNONENONE+
PHOSGENEACIDNONE?- AFTER WEATHERING
CYANOGEN AGENTSBITTERBADNONE- AFTER WEATHERING
IRRITANTSACIDBADNONE+
SMOKEACIDBAD?-
WHITE PHOSPHOROUS???+
+ INDICATES THE PRESENCE OF RESIDUAL TOXICITY.
- DENOTES THAT RESIDUAL TOXICITY IS NOT PRESENT.
? THE INFLUENCE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED.

Table J-5. Protection from Chemical Contamination by Packaging Methods and Materials

CHEMICAL VAPORSLIQUIDS
BOTTLES AND CANS
AIRTIGHT BOTTLESCOMPLETECOMPLETE
SEALED METAL CANSCOMPLETECOMPLETE
GLASS BOTTLESGOODGOOD
METAL CONTAINERSGOODGOOD
BOXES
CARDBOARDMODERATEMODERATE
WOODEN CRATESMODERATEPOOR OR NONE
WRAPPINGS
METAL FOIL LAMINATESCOMPLETECOMPLETE
PAPERPOORNONE
TEXTILESNONENONE
WAXED PAPERGOODMODERATE
MULTILAYER BAGSGOODMODERATE
CELLOPHANEGOODGOOD
CELLOPHANE, WETNONENONE
CANVASPOORPOOR

b. Detection.

(1) Currently, a field method for detecting chemical agent contamination in food does not exist. Contamination is not always spread evenly throughout food; this makes it impossible to take a single sample and determine the presence or absence of chemical agents in the entire lot. Additionally, standardized laboratory tests have not been developed for determining levels of chemical agents in food. Until a specific method to detect chemical agents in food is available, reliance will have to be made upon determination of contamination, or lack thereof, on the packaging material; the integrity of the packaging material; the protective qualities of the packaging material; and the penetration characteristics of the suspected chemical agents.

(2) Food may become toxic without any change in outward appearance. Never taste or smell food to determine if contamination is present in food.

(3) Veterinary and subsistence units have the following equipment available to detect chemical agents in the field:

(a) The M8 Automatic Chemical Agent Alarm System consists of the M43 detector unit and the M42 alarm unit. The detector unit is a portable, automatic, point-monitoring device that is designed to be hand carried from point to point. The M8 is used to provide early warning of a toxic agent position and detects the presence of chemical vapors and aerosols. The M43 detects all nerve, blood, and choking agents, and some blister agents. The M43A1 (the replacement for the M43) only detects nerve agents.

(b) The M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit detects and identifies nerve, blood, and blister agents. The M256 is the most sensitive of the chemical agent vapor detectors available. However, it is not a continuous, real-time monitoring system. It requires 15 to 20 minutes for sampling and analysis.

(c) The ABC-M8 VGH Chemical Agent Detector Paper can detect and differentiate between nerve and blister agents by color change. It is intended to be used by blotting and wiping surfaces suspected of contamination. The M8 paper will respond with a visual color change in 10 seconds or less.

(d) The M9 Chemical Agent Detector Paper will detect liquid nerve (G & V) and blister agents (H & L), but will not identify the specific agent or differentiate between nerve and blister agents. The M9 tape is sensitive to droplets as small as 100 μ, and will respond with a visual color change in 10 seconds or less.

(4) All subsistence in a chemical attack area are considered contaminated until a survey can be conducted, preferably by veterinary and chemical personnel. Personnel must be at MOPP Level 4 while conducting the survey. Concentrate the initial portion of the survey on the adequacy of the storage facility and other protective measures in preventing chemical agent contact with subsistence items. The area surrounding the storage facility is examined for the presence of animals, rodents, birds, and arthropods acting unusual, or dead in unusual numbers. If animals are present and assistance is required in identifying the NBC agent, specimens can be collected and submitted to the area medical laboratory. Damage such as broken windows, holes, or loss of structural integrity of the storage facility is noted. This information combined with knowledge of the agent form (liquid or vapor), type of agent (which will indicate the degree of persistency), and approximate time of attack will provide a risk assessment. Liquid agents should not significantly penetrate an intact facility, but may produce vapor contamination by off-gassing.

(a) Upon entering the storage facility, the M8 can be used to determine the presence of chemical vapors. However, precautions must be taken. The M42 alarm is not to be used inside shelters, vehicles, vans, or other interior modes. Therefore, when checking food storage facilities, the alarm unit must be left outside, turned off, or disconnected. Do not tilt the M43 detector more than 45 degrees (because of the liquids it contains). This is not a problem with the improved M43A1, but the M43A1 requires attachment of an exit port filter when used indoors. The M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit can be used to sample the air.

(b) Pre-position M9 chemical agent detector paper in food storage areas; especially on the least protected pallets and in areas where droplets may enter, such as near doors or windows. Examine the M9 paper for indications of liquid chemical agents. If the M9 paper is positive, or if the packaging materials show the presence of liquids or stains, use the M8 detector paper to determine the type of the agent. If an agent is not indicated by the detector paper, then the amount of agent present will be insufficient to cause secondary contamination when the outer package is removed.

(5) Detection procedures become more complicated if a chemical agent has penetrated or permeated through the packaging and packing materials. Unless liquid has seeped through the cardboard, any agent in the interior of the shipping case will be in a vapor form. Liquid seeping should be obvious. The sampler-detectors in the M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit do not have an aspirator for sampling the interior of the case. However, there are several procedures that can be used. One is to open the case, place the activated sampler-detectors inside the case, and then reclose the case. Another is to punch holes in the case, place the activated sampler-detector over the holes, and cover the sampler-detector with an empty box or can (open end down) to concentrate the vapors escaping from the case. Alternatively, remove the food from the case and place it in a plastic bag with the sampler-detectors to concentrate the vapors. These procedures require two sampler-detectors; one for blood agents and one for nerve and blister agents. Neither method is very sensitive in low concentrations of vapor as is expected to be present inside shipping containers. A better method is to modify the M43 detector with a field expedient probe of Teflon tubing attached to the detector's air inlet. Insert the open end of the tubing into a hole in the case or package to sample the interior air. When available, the improved chemical agent monitor (ICAM) can be used; its design will allow aspiration of air from inside shipping cases. The ICAM can also be used to detect and identify liquid agents on a surface provided the agent is vaporizing in sufficient quantity. The ICAM gives a visual representation of a hazard evaluation.

c. Decontamination.

(1) Decontamination is only required for contamination remaining 10 minutes or longer. Decontamination efforts on subsistence items will normally be limited to removal of the containers and carton overwrap material.

(2) The need for decontamination is primarily dictated by the type of chemical agent used. The method of decontamination selected will depend upon the type of packaging material used and the urgency with which the food is required.

(3) Food supplies in storage are not likely to be seriously contaminated if reasonable protection precautions are taken. For this reason, large supplies of food are not to be condemned as a whole simply because they have been exposed to possible chemical contamination. A prompt and careful survey of the supplies may reveal that only a few items have been contaminated to a level that decontamination is required. Prompt segregation of the heavily contaminated portions will prevent, or minimize, contamination of the remainder. Foods without protective packages constitute the major difficulty.

(4) Individual decontamination is performed by each soldier on those subsistence items in his possession at the time of the attack. Individual decontamination is limited to operational rations that are in original, intact containers. Unit-level decontamination is performed by unit personnel under the supervision of unit NBC personnel. Support decontamination is attempted at major subsistence storage facilities. Again, decontamination is limited to packing material. Decontamination of food itself is only attempted in emergency situations when alternative supplies are not available.

(5) Start decontamination operations with the easiest method and proceed to the most difficult. This allows for the removal of a relatively large portion of the contamination in a minimum of time. The simplest procedure is to allow the materials to age and air ("weather"). Substantial self-decontamination will occur with most agents. Exceptions are thickened mustard, thickened GD, and VX. [Table J-6] provides the length of time for which contaminated subsistence supplies may present a contact hazard. Weather elements that affect decontamination are—

(a) Warm temperatures speed liquid agent off-gassing and hasten the dispersion of chemical agents into the air.

(b) High winds rapidly disperse chemical agent vapors and speed off-gassing from surfaces.

(c) Moisture causes chemical agents to react with water to form nontoxic or less toxic chemicals. Heavy rain or rain of long duration can aid decontamination by mechanically removing chemical agents.

(d) Even in cold weather, direct sunrays warm surfaces above the air temperature and hasten the off-gassing and decomposition of chemical agents.

Table J-6. Persistency of Selected Liquid Chemical Agents

WEATHER CONDITIONS
AGENTSUNNY, AROUND 20°C, LIGHT BREEZEWET AND WINDY, AROUND 10°CCALM, SUNNY, LYING SNOW, AROUND -10°C
MUSTARD(HD)2-7 DAYS1/2-2 DAYS2-8 WEEKS
TABUN(GA)1-4 DAYS1/2-6 HOURS1 DAY-2 WEEKS
SARIN(GB)1/4-4 HOURS1/4-1 HOUR1-2 DAYS
SOMAN(GD)2-1/2-5 DAYS3-36 HOURS1-6 WEEKS
NERVE(VX)3-21 DAYS1-12 DAYS1-16 WEEKS

(6) Active decontamination is attempted only when weathering will not decontaminate the packaging material in sufficient time. Decontamination procedures can be enhanced by using heat to vaporize the chemical agent; by reaction with decontaminants; or by removing with hot soapy water.

(a) The simplest (standard) decontamination materials are water and detergents. An effective decontaminant is hot water used with the addition of soap or detergent and scrubbing. Commercial abrasive powdered cleansers are effective decontaminants for many surfaces (metal, glass, Formica), but not wood or soft plastics.

(b) Water can be used to flush chemical agents from surfaces. High-pressure application produces a better cleansing action than low pressure. If the surface has absorbed the agent, flushing will remove the surface contamination, but will not affect the agent that is absorbed.

(c) Soaking contaminated items in boiling water is an excellent decontamination method for some agents. Water alone will not be sufficient to decontaminate all chemical agents. Soaking in warm or cold water may reduce the contamination slightly; however, the hazard may not be reduced sufficiently even after prolonged soaking. If hot water is not available, or if it might cause damage to the item, other methods of decontamination should be considered, such as decontaminating solutions or a caustic solution followed by thorough rinsing.

(d) Fibrous materials such as cloth and canvas are best decontaminated by washing and scrubbing.

(e) Glass, metal, porcelain, and plastic surfaces are best decontaminated by using hot water or hot soapy water. Some toxic materials are readily removed with no more than slight abrasion or brushing.

(f) Painted, varnished, and waxed surfaces are generally smooth and nonporous. Dust and liquids are readily removed by wiping, brushing, or vacuuming. Absorbed materials are removed by hot water, detergent, or complexing agents. None of these surfaces stand up well to heavy abrasive techniques. Agents can be attacked and removed by caustics, acids, and organic chemicals. Some of these surfaces readily absorb agents, so weathering following decontamination is advisable.

(g) Rubber is a porous material that can absorb agents. It is not easily decontaminated by abrasive techniques. Warm, soapy water used with brushing is effective since it removes some absorbed contamination. Strong acids, alkalies, and organic solvents may deteriorate and decompose rubber articles.

(7) Operational rations are the primary rations issued; always issue uncontaminated stocks first. This allows for decontamination of contaminated stocks without interrupting supply support. Normally, contaminated stocks are not issued. The decision to issue contaminated items is based on the tactical situation, criticality of the items, type and extent of contamination, and the time and resources available for decontamination. Decontamination efforts on subsistence items are limited to the containers and carton overwrap material.

(a) The MRE retort and nonretort food pouch may be decontaminated with soap and water wash. The chemical agents will be removed by the solutions.

(b) Semipermeable materials (polyethylene menu bag, shrink wrap, and film wrap) may have chemicals deposited not only on the surface, but also dissolved into the matrix of the material. The chemicals can be removed from the surface by washing with hot soapy water, but contaminant dissolved in the material is not removed. The remaining agent can only be removed by weathering which can be accelerated through the use of heat and sweeping the surface with air.

(c) Fiberboard is both sorbent and permeable and acts like a blotter. Liquid decontaminants can force the contaminant further into the fiberboard. Any attempt to decontaminate fiberboard would be futile. The only alternatives are to remove the fiberboard, or to allow it to weather.

(d) Palletized unit loads of MRE and UGR outerwraps can be decontaminated through the aid of a forced clean air sweep in 4 to 5 days, compared to 3 weeks or more under natural conditions without a forced air sweep.

(8) Contaminated food supplies are only handled by personnel trained in decontamination methods and in MOPP Level 4. Contaminated food items are divided into three groups as described below (see [Table J-1] for additional information).

(a) Group 1 consists of canned and unopened packaged items which have been exposed only to agent vapors. Most items in this group will be safe to issue after a brief period of outdoor airing to remove clinging vapors. Table J-7 lists the decontamination procedures for packaging materials contaminated with nerve agents, mustards, and arsenicals.

Table J-7. Chemical Decontamination of Packaged Material

PACKAGING MATERIALCONTAMINATIONDECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES
AIRTIGHT METALVAPOR ANDAIR FOR 24 HOURS. WASH
CONTAINERS, GLASSLIQUIDWITH HOT SOAPY WATER,
BOTTLES, FOILSODA, OR BLEACH SOLUTION.
ALUMINATED LAMINATEDRINSE WITH WATER.
MATERIALS.
POLYESTER, PVF.VAPORREMOVE CONTAMINATED
WOODEN BOXES, CRATES,PACKAGE. AIR CONTENTS FOR
BOARD, MULTILAYER24 HOURS.
BAGS.
CARDBOARD,LIQUIDCONTAMINATED CONTENTS—
POLYETHYLENE.TREAT AS UNPACKAGED FOOD.

(b) Group II consists of canned and unopened packaged items which have been contaminated with a liquid chemical agent.

1. Attempts to decontaminate porous packaging materials, such as cardboard or wood, are likely to be unsuccessful and may result in spreading the contamination. The best procedure in handling such items is to strip off the outer contaminated coverings and examine the inner layer to see if penetration of the agent has occurred. If it has, continue stripping off layers until an uncontaminated layer is reached and place it in Group I. If the agent has penetrated to the food, place it in Group III.

2. Food in cans or in other sealed, impermeable containers is not in danger of chemical contamination. Because contamination is confined to the outer surface of the sealed container, decontamination is accomplished by: immersion in boiling, soapy water for 30 minutes and rinse; immersion in boiling water for 30 minutes; spray with DS2; or to wash in hot soapy water, rinse, and aerate. Under no conditions should contaminated containers be opened before they have been decontaminated and monitored.

3. Supertropical bleach and DS2 can be used on the polyethylene menu bag for up to 24 hours without a significant change in appearance, tensile properties, and size of the plastic. The use of DS2 will cause significant degradative changes to most other plastics, while STB will cause little or no change. Also, DS2 may cause false positive readings when using M8 or M9 paper, or the M256 Detector Kit to check completeness of decontamination.

(c) Group III will consist of unpackaged or poorly packaged items which have been exposed to an agent in either vapor or liquid form. Foodstuffs in this group should be decontaminated only when absolutely necessary. The decision to use foods that have been contaminated is to be made by the commander. Decontamination procedure to be followed, in order, is: trim surface fat and grossly contaminated areas; wash with water or 2-percent sodium bicarbonate solution; then boil in water.

1. Boiling in water may be eliminated when the contamination has been only with the vapors of irritant agents. When such an exposure has been light, aeration for a short time may be used for decontamination.

2. Frying, roasting, or broiling will not remove traces of blister agents from meats. In general, salvage of foods heavily contaminated with droplets of the blister agents, especially the arsenical blister agents, is not practical. Foods of high water or fat content are unfit for consumption and reclamation is not practical when contaminated with liquid mustard or a liquid nitrogen mustard.

3. When foods have been exposed to blister agent vapor, they can be reclaimed by washing with sodium bicarbonate solutions and rinsing with clear water, by intensive cooking, or in the case of dry provisions, by 24 to 48 hours of aeration. Lean meat contaminated with mustard vapor can be reclaimed by boiling in water for 30 minutes or more. With nitrogen mustard vapor contamination, the meat should be boiled in a 2-percent sodium bicarbonate solution. Discard the water used to boil the meat.

4. Nerve agent contamination is treated the same as blister agent contamination.

5. Foods, such as potatoes and hard-skinned fruits and vegetables, can be decontaminated by washing or scrubbing, followed by peeling or scraping, then washing again.

6. Prepared food in open containers will be contaminated; it must be temporarily isolated, or disposed of (bury or as directed by commander).

7. A food Item that is contaminated with irritants can be decontaminated by airing. Consumability is determined by taste rather than toxicity.

8. Phosgene is rapidly hydrolyzed, therefore, washing the food with water or airing it will usually suffice.

9. Food contaminated with white phosphorous should be destroyed.

10. Normally, hydrocyanic acid will have little effect on food supplies. The exposures will most likely be as a vapor. However, foods with a high water content may become unfit for consumption after exposure to high concentrations.

11. The effect of CK on foods is not known. Foods exposed to CK vapors are considered toxic.

12. [Table J-8] lists the decontamination procedures for unpackaged food contaminated with a chemical agent.

(9) Decontaminating cattle, poultry, and other livestock is only attempted when other sources of food are not available. Heavily contaminated animals should be destroyed. Livestock contaminated lightly by phosgene, nerve agents, mustards, and arsenicals (such as vapor or liquid) may be slaughtered in the early stages of poisoning before the full effects of exposure are shown. If these animals are slaughtered in the preliminary stages of poisoning and all tissues exposed to the agent (the head, blood, lungs, organs, and local areas) are discarded, there is no danger in consumption of the meat, provided the animal passes a pre-slaughter and slaughter inspection. This is true even of animals poisoned by arsenical agents since the edible tissue will contain amounts of arsenic too small to be toxic. Organs (liver, brain, heart, kidney, and lungs) will contain more arsenic than the musculature and are discarded. The meat must be well cooked. Personnel involved in slaughtering procedures must be careful to prevent spreading contamination to the meat and to themselves.

(10) Decontaminating forage and grain exposed to only chemical agent vapors is by aeration. Aerated supplies, especially if mixed with larger amounts of uncontaminated supplies, produces no ill effects when fed to animals. Forage or grain heavily contaminated by liquid vesicants, especially arsenicals, should not be used.

Table J-8. Chemical Decontamination of Unpackaged Food

CHEMICAL AGENTFATTY FOODS (BUTTER, BACON, MILK, CHEESE, HAM).NONFATTY FOODS, HIGH WATER CONTENT CRYSTALLINE (FRUITS, VEGETABLES, SALT, SUGAR).NONFATTY FOODS, LOW WATER CONTENT, AMORPHOUS (FLOUR, CEREALS, BREAD, PEAS).
NERVE AGENTS
VAPOR, HEAVYDESTROYDESTROY, UNLESS POSSIBLE TO BOIL AFTER AIRING 48 HOURS.AIR FOR 48 HOURS, THEN BOIL.
VAPOR, LIGHTDESTROYAIR FOR 48 HOURS, THEN BOIL.AIR FOR 48 HOURS, THEN BOIL.
LIQUIDDESTROYDESTROYDESTROY
MUSTARDS
VAPORREMOVE 1-3 cm OF OUTER LAYER AND WASH WITH 2% SODIUM BICARBONATE SOLUTION. BOIL FOR AT LEAST 30 MINUTES. DESTROY MILK.WASH WITH WATER. AIR FOR 48 HOURS.WASH WITH WATER. AIR FOR 48 HOURS.
LIQUIDDESTROYDESTROYDESTROY
ARSENICALS
DESTROYDESTROYDESTROY

[GLOSSARY]

ABBREVIATION, ACRONYMS, AND DEFINITIONS

ABCA American, British, Canadian, and Australian
ABO agents of biological origin
AC hydrogen cyanide
AFJMAN Air Force Joint Manual
amb ambulance
AMEDD Army Medical Department
AMEDDC&S Army Medical Department Center and School
AMedP Allied Medical Publication
AML area medical laboratory
AN/PDR27 radiac meter
AN/PDR77 radiac meter
AN/VDR2 radiac meter
AO area of operations
AR Army regulation
ATM advanced trauma management
ATTN attention
AXP ambulance exchange point
BAS battalion aid station
BAT Biological Augmentation Team
BC blood culture
bde brigade
BDU battle dress uniform
BI battle injury
BIDS Biological Integrated Detection System
Biological Warfare Agent Field Confirmation Identification Identification of a suspect biological warfare agent by means of devices/materials/technologies that are based on detecting biological markers using two or more independent biomarker results. Examples might include the findings of the presumptive biomarker identification with the addition of a positive PCR, ELISA, or electrochemiluminescence (ECL) results, using specific target nucleic acid sequences for the organism and antibody recognition of agent-specific antigen sites, respectively. (Field sample/specimen identification by forward deployed or forward positioned laboratories [such as the US Air Force Biological Augmentation Team (BAT), theater army medical laboratory, or forward deployed preventive medicine unit (US Navy) and homeland security Laboratory Response Network (LRN) Level B or C, US Army Community Hospitals or Medical Centers].)
Biological Warfare Agent Definitive Identification And Confirmation The specific identification of a suspect biological agent as to genus and species, serological type, or toxin. This level of identification is by means of devices/materials/technologies that are based on two or more independent biomarker results and using different methodologies. This level of identification is performed in a reference laboratory with a broader variety of methodologies available and highly skilled testing personnel, thus providing the highest levels of accuracy. (Sample/specimen identification is accomplished by homeland security LRN Level C and D and nationally recognized laboratory such as the US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Disease or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)
Biological Marker Characteristics of a biological agent (organism, virus, toxin, or product) that are specific to the agent. This includes (1) recognition of specific nucleic add sequences (DNA or ribonucleic acid [RNA]) unique to the bacteria or virus by a technique such as PCR; (2) identification of specific ECL assay; (3) specific growth properties as seen on selective media such as characteristic colony morphology on culture along with phage inhibition; (4) Identification using specific microscopic characteristics such as Gram stain, fluorescent antibody stain, immunohistochemical stain, or cytopathic effects.
Biological Warfare Agent Presumptive Identification Identification of a suspect biological warfare agent by means of devices/materials/technologies that are based detecting biological markers (biomarkers) using a single methodology. The biomarkers and/or methodologies used at this level of testing have significant limits to their accuracy. Agent identification to species level, or differentiation among a family of similar agents, may not be possible. This is equivalent to the LRN Level A and the US Army BIDS. (EXAMPLES: Identification by sensor triggering, hand-held devices [hand-held assays] or initial systems, or laboratory analysis employing one screening methodology [such as microscopic morphology, antibody/protein, or nucleic acid-based test].)
bot/pkg bottle/package
BSA brigade support area
BW biological warfare
BZ an incapacitating chemical warfare agent
C Centigrade/Celsius
C2 command and control
C4I Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence
CaCl calcium hypochlorite
cal/cm2 calories per square centimeter
cal/cm2/sec calories per square centimeter per second
CAM chemical agent monitor
CANA convulsant antidote for nerve agent (diazepam)
CB chemical/biological
CBDA Chemical Biological Defense Agency
CBPS chemically biologically protected shelter
CBRNE chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosive
CBSCC Chemical-Biological Sampling Control Center
CBSCE Chemical-Biological Sampling Control Element
cc cubic centimeter
CG phosgene
cGy centigray
CIS Commonwealth of Independent States (Russia)
CK cyanogen chloride
Cl chlorine
CLASS VIII Classification of medical supplies and equipment within the Federal Stock Classification
System
CLS combat lifesaver
cm centimeter
cm2 square centimeter
CNS central nervous system
CO2 carbon dioxide
CONUS continental United States
COSC combat operational stress control
CP chemically protected
CP DEPMEDS chemically protected deployable medical system
CPS collective protection shelter
CREST Casualty Requirements Estimation Tool
CS combat support
Cs-137 Cesium 137
CSF cerebrospinal fluid
CSH combat support hospital
CSS combat service support
CW chemical warfare
CX phosgene oxime
DA Department of the Army
DAP decontamination apparatus, portable
DCS division clearing station
DD Department of Defense
decon decontamination
DEPMEDS Deployable Medical System
DNA deoxyribonucleic acid
DNBI disease and nonbattle Injury
DOD Department of Defense
DP diphosgene
DS2 decontaminating solution Number 2
DTF dental treatment facility
E EDTA
EAC echelons above corps
ECL electochemiluminescence
ECP entry control point
ECU environmental control units
EDTA ethylenediaminetetraacetate
EEE eastern equine encephalitis
ELISA enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
EM electron microscopy
EMP electromagnetic pulse
EMS emergency medical services
EMT emergency medical treatment
EOD explosive ordnance disposal
EPW enemy prisoner of war
ER emergency room
evac evacuation
F Fahrenheit
F-1 Fraction-1
FA fluorescent antibody
FDECU field deployable environmental control unit
FH field hospital
FLOT forward line of own troops
FM field manual
FMC Field Medical Card
FSOP field standing operating procedures
FST forward surgical team
g gram
G1 Assistant Chief of Staff (Adjutant)
G2 Assistant Chief of Staff (Intelligence)
G3 Assistant Chief of Staff (Operations and Training)
G4 Assistant Chief of Staff (Logistics)
GA Tabun
gal gallon
GB Sarin
GD Soman
GF a nerve agent
GH general hospital
gm gram
GP general purpose
GVO green vinyl overboots
Gy gray (100 cGy)
H heparin
HD sulfur mustard (a blister agent)
HG chemical symbol for mercury
HL mustard and Lewisite mix
HMMWV high mobility multi-purpose wheeled vehicle
HN nitrogen mustard
HPLC high-pressure liquid chromatography
HSL health service logistics
HSS health service support
HUB hospital unit base
HUH hospital unit holding
HUM hospital unit medical
HUS hospital unit surgical
HTH high test hypochlorite (70% available chlorine)
I-131 Iodine-131
IATA International Air Transportation Association
IAW in accordance with
IC intensive care
ICAM improved chemical agent monitor
ICC incident command center
ICU intensive care unit
ICW intensive care ward
ID Incapacitation dose
IgG immunoglobulin class G
IgM immunoglobulin class M
IMA installation medical authority
ISO International Organization for Standardization
IV intravenous
J2 Joint Intelligence Directorate
J3 Joint Operations Directorate
kg kilogram
km kilometer(s)
kph kilometers per hour
KT kiloton
L Lewisite
LAB laboratory
lb pound
LCE load-carrying equipment
LD lethal dose
LD 50/60 lethal dose for 50 percent of exposed persons within a period of 60 days
LRN Laboratory Response Network
LSD d-lysergic acid diethylamide
LZ landing zone
µ micron
m meters
m3 milligrams per minute
MCRP Marine Corps Reference Publication
MEDEVAC medical evacuation
Medical Countermeasures Those measures taken to maintain soldier sustainability through the prevention and pretreatment of injury from NBC agent hazards; and following injury those measures taken to treat NBC casualties and improve medical capability for diagnosis, physiological resuscitation and continued medical management of NBC casualties.
MES medical equipment set
MF2K Medical Force 2000 (Army of Excellence Organizations)
mg milligram
mg/kg milligrams per kilogram
MILVAN military-owned demountable container
ml milliliter
mm millimeter
MOPP mission-oriented protective posture
MOS military occupational specialty
MRE meal ready-to-eat
MRI Medical Reengineering Initiative
MSR main supply route
m/sec meters per second
MT megaton
MTF medical treatment facility
NaCl sodium chloride (salt)
NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization
NAVMED P Naval Medical Publication
NBC nuclear, biological, and chemical
NBCC nuclear, biological, and chemical control
NBCWRS nuclear, biological, and chemical warning and reporting system
NCO noncommissioned officer
NL no limit
NTTP Navy Tactics Techniques and Procedures
O2 oxygen
OEG operational exposure guide
OPLAN operation plan
OPSEC operations security
Patient Decontamination —The removal and/or the neutralization of hazardous levels of nuclear, biological, and chemical contamination from patients at a medical treatment facility. Patient decontamination is performed under the supervision of medical personnel to prevent further injury to the patient and to maintain the patient's health status during the decontamination process. Patient decontamination serves multiple purposes; it protects the patient from further injury, it prevents exposing medical personnel to the contamination, and it prevents contamination of the medical treatment facility.
PCR polymerase chain reaction
PDS patient decontamination station
pH symbol relating the hydrogen ion activity in gram equivalents per liter used in expressing the acidity and alkalinity on a scale whose values run from 0 to 14 with 7 representing neutrality. Numbers less than 7 indicate increasing acidity, and numbers greater than 7 indicate increasing alkalinity.
PMM preventive medicine measures
pnt patient
ppm parts per million
PPW patient protective wrap
PS chloropicrin
PVF polyvinyl fluoride
PVNTMED preventive medicine
QSTA Quadripartite Standardization Agreement
RDD radiological dispersal device
recon reconnaissance
RES radiation exposure status
RNA ribonucleic acid
ROWPU reverse osmosis water purification unit
RT red top
RT-PCR reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction
RTD return to duty
S1 Adjutant (US Army)
S2 Intelligence Officer (U.S. Army)
S3 Operations and Training Officer (U.S. Army)
S4 Supply Officer (U.S. Army)
SCUD ballistic missile
SDK skin decontaminating kit
SFG Special Forces Group
SMART special medical assistance response team
SOF Special Operations Forces
SOP standing operating procedure
Sr-89 Strontium-89
Sr-90 Strontium-90
STANAG Standardization Agreement (NATO)
STAT statim
STB supertropical bleach
Sv Sievert
T2 trichothecene
TAML theater Army medical laboratory
TC training circular
TEU technical escort unit
TEMPER tent, expandable, modular, personnel
Toxic Industrial Biological (TIB) Biological materials (bacteria, viruses, and toxins) found in medical research, pharmaceutical, and other manufacturing processes that are toxic to humans and animals, or cause damage to plants.
Toxic Industrial Chemical (TIC) Chemical compounds used or produced in industrial processes that are toxic to humans and animals, or cause damage to plants. EXAMPLES include fuels, solvents, heavy metals, and chemicals used in manufacturing processes.
Toxic Industrial Material (TIM) Toxic industrial materials may be toxic industrial chemical (TIC), toxic industrial biological (TIB) and toxic industrial radiological (TIR) materials.
Toxic Industrial Radiological (TIR) Radiation-emitting materials used in research, power generation, medical treatment, and other non-weapon developmental activities that are harmful to humans and animals if released outside their controlled environment.
TIR toxic industrial radiological
TM technical manual
TM trademark
TOE table of organization and equipment (US Army organizational structure document)
TO theater of operations
trmt treatment
TSOP tactical standing operating procedures
TT tiger top
µ microns
UGR unit group rations
UN United Nations
US United States
USAF United States Air Force
V-agent a nerve agent
VEE Venezuelan equine encephalitis
VX a persistent nerve agent
WBGT wet bulb globe temperature
WEE western equine encephalitis
WMD-IST weapons of mass destruction—installation support team


[REFERENCES]

NATO

NATO Emergency War Surgery Handbook. 1988.

NATO STANAGs

These agreements are available on request (using DD Form 1425) from the Standardization Documents Order Desk, 700 Robins Avenue, Building 4, Section D, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111-5094.

2002. Warning Signs for the Marking of Contaminated or Dangerous Land Areas, Complete Equipments, Supplies and Stores. Edition 8. 29 January 1999.

2047. Emergency Alarms of Hazard or Attack (NBC and Air Attack Only). Edition 7. 24 July 1998. (Latest Amendment, 7 February 2000.)

2068. Emergency War Surgery. Edition 4. 28 October 1986. (Latest Amendment, 17 October 1991.)

2083. Commander's Guide on Nuclear Radiation Exposure of Groups. Edition 5. 19 September 1986. (Latest Amendment, 26 June 1994.)

2103. Reporting Nuclear Detonations, Biological and Chemical Attacks, and Predicting and Warning of Associated Hazards and Hazard Areas—ATP 45(A). Edition 8. 31 August 2000.

2104. Friendly Nuclear Strike Warning. Edition 7. 28 June 1994. (Latest Amendment, 28 June 1995.)

2112. Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Reconnaissance. Edition 4. 6 March 1998.

2475. Medical Planning Guide for the Estimation of NBC Battle Casualties (Nuclear)—AmedP-8(A), Volume I. December 2000.

2476. Medical Planning Guide of NBC Battle Casualties (Biological)—AmedP-8(A), Volume II. March 2001.

2477. Planning Guide for the Estimation of NBC Battle Casualties (Chemical)—AmedP-8(A), Volume III. March 2001.

2500. NATO Handbook on the Medical Aspects of NBC Defensive Operations—AMedP-6(B). Edition 4. 11 February 1997.

2873. Concept of Operations of Medical Support in Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Environments—AmedP-7(A). Edition 3. 16 October 1996.

2879. Principles of Medical Policy in the Management of a Mass Casualty Situation. Edition 3. 7 September 1998.

2941. Guidelines for Air and Ground Personnel Using Fixed and Transportable Collective Protection Facilities on Land. Edition 2. 19 June 1992. (Latest Amendment, 30 October 1995.)

2954. Training of Medical Personnel for NBC Operations. Edition 1. 28 December 1987. (Latest Amendment, 6 June 1995.)

ABCA QSTAGs

These agreements are available on request (using DD Form 1425) from the Standardization Documents Order Desk, 700 Robins Avenue, Building 4, Section D, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111-5094.

183. Emergency Warning Signals and Alarms for NBCD Hazards or Attacks (NBC and Air Attacks Only). Edition 3. 12 August 1991.

187. Reporting Nuclear Detonations Biological and Chemical Attacks and Predicting and Warning of Associated Hazards and Hazard Areas. Edition 5. 21 May 1998.

189. Friendly Nuclear Strike Warning. Edition 3. 12 August 1991.

501. Warning Signs for the Marking of Contaminated or Dangerous Land Areas, Complete Equipment, Supplies and Stores. Edition 2. 11 May 1982.

608. Interoperable Chemical Agent Detector Kits. Edition 3. 13 December 2000.

816. Medical Aspects of Mass Casualty Situations. Edition 1. August 1990.

1330. Medical Aspects of NBC Defensive Operations. Draft.

2000. Guidelines on Entry and Exit Procedures for Using Collective Protection Facilities. 17 December 1996.

JOINT OR MULTISERVICE PUBLICATIONS

AR 40-535. Worldwide Aeromedical Evacuation. AFR 164-5; OPNAVINST 4630.9C; MCO P4630.9A. 1 December 1975. (Reprinted with basic including Change 1, 10 May 1979.)

AR 40-562. Immunizations and Chemoprophylaxis. AFJI 48-110; BUMEDINST 6230.15; CG COMDTINST M6230.4E. 1 November 1995.

AR 40-656. Veterinary Surveillance Inspection of Subsistence. NAVSUPINST 4355.10; MCO 10110.45. 15 October 1986.

AR 40-657. Veterinary/Medical Food Inspection and Laboratory Service. NAVSUPINST 4355.4F; MCO P10110.31G. 6 November 1997.

FM 3-3. Chemical and Biological Contamination Avoidance. FMFM 11-17. 16 November 1992. (Change 1, 29 September 1994.)

FM 3-4. NBC Protection. FMFM 11-9. 29 May 1992. (Reprinted with basic including Changes 1-2, 21 February 1996.)

FM 3-5. NBC Decontamination. MCWP 3-37.3. 28 July 2000.

FM 3-6. Field Behavior of NBC Agents (Including Smoke and Incendiaries). AMF 105-7; FMFM 7-11 H. 3 November 1986.

FM 3-9. Potential Military Chemical/Biological Agents and Compounds. NAVFAC P-467, AFR 355-7. 12 December 1990.

FM 3-11.34. Multiservice Procedures for Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) Defense of Theater Fixed Sites, Ports, and Airfields. MCWP 3.37.5; NTTP 3-11.23; AFTTP(I) 3-2.33. 29 September 2000.

FM 3-19. Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Reconnaissance. FMFM 11-20. 19 November 1993.

FM 3-100. Chemical Operations, Principles and Fundamentals. MCWP 3-3.7.1. 8 May 1996.

FM 4-02.33. Control of Communicable Diseases Manual. 17th Edition. NAVMED P-5038. 31 December 1999.

FM 4-02.283. Treatment of Nuclear and Radiological Casualties. NTRP 4-02.21; AFMAN 44-161(I); MCRP 4-11.1B. 20 December 2001.

FM 6-22.5. Combat Stress. MCRP 6-11C; NTTP 1-15M. 23 June 2000.

FM 8-9. NATO Handbook on the Medical Aspects of NBC Defensive Operations AMedP-6(B), Part I—Nuclear, Part II—Biological, Part III—Chemical. NAVMED P-5059; AFJMAN 44-151V1V2V3. 1 February 1996.

FM 8-284. Treatment of Biological Warfare Agent Casualties. NAVMED P-5042; AFMAN(I) 44-156; MCRP 4-11.1C. 17 July 2000. (Change 1, 8 July 2002.)

FM 8-285. Treatment of Chemical Agent Casualties and Conventional Military Chemical Injuries. NAVMED P-5041; AFJMAN 44-149; FMFM 11-11. 22 December 1995.

FM 21-10. Field Hygiene and Sanitation. MCRP 4-11.1D. 21 June 2000.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

DOD 5100.52-M. Nuclear Weapon Accident Response Procedures (NARP). September 1990.

DOD Directive 3150.8. DOD Response to Radiological Accidents. 13 June 1996.

DD Form 1380. US Field Medical Card. December 1991.

DD Form 1911. Material Courier Receipt. May 1982.

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FORM

DA Form 4137. Evidence/Property Custody Document. 1 July 1976.

ARMY PUBLICATIONS

AR 40-5. Preventive Medicine. 15 October 1990.

AR 40-61. Medical Logistics Policies and Procedures. 25 January 1995.

AR 40-66. Medical Records Administration and Health Care Documentation. 3 May 1999.

AR 40-400. Patient Administration. 12 March 2001.

FM 3-06.11. Combined Arms Operations in Urban Terrain. 28 February 2002.

FM 3-7. NBC Field Handbook. 29 September 1994.

FM 3-50. Smoke Operations. 4 December 1990. (Change 1, 11 September 1996).

FM 3-101. Chemical Staffs and Units. 19 November 1993.

FM 3-101-4. Biological Detection Platoon Operations—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 9 June 1997. (Reprinted with basic including Changes 1-2, 1 September 2000.)

FM 4-02.1. Combat Health Logistics. 28 September 2001.

FM 4-02.4. Medical Platoon Leaders' Handbook—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 24 August 2001.

FM 4-02.6. The Medical Company—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 1 August 2002.

FM 4-02.10. Theater Hospitalization. 29 December 2000.

FM 4-02.17. Preventive Medicine Services. 28 August 2000.

FM 4-02.19. Dental Service Support in a Theater of Operations. 1 March 2001.

FM 4-25.12. Unit Field Sanitation Team. 25 January 2002.

FM 8-10. Health Service Support in a Theater of Operations. 1 March 1991.

FM 8-10-1. The Medical Company—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 29 December 1994.

FM 8-10-6. Medical Evacuation in a Theater of Operations—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 14 April 2000.

FM 8-10-8. Medical Intelligence in a Theater of Operations. 7 July 1989.

FM 8-10-9. Combat Health Logistics in a Theater of Operations—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 3 October 1995.

FM 8-10-14. Employment of the Combat Support Hospital—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 29 December 1994.

FM 8-10-15. Employment of the Field and General Hospitals—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 26 March 1997.

FM 8-10-18. Veterinary Service—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 22 August 1997.

FM 8-10-24. Area Support Medical Battalion—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 13 October 1993.

FM 8-10-25. Employment of Forward Surgical Teams—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 30 September 1997.

FM 8-10-26. Employment of the Medical Company (Air Ambulance). 16 February 1999. (Change 1, 20 May 2002.)

FM 8-30. Veterinary Food Inspection Specialist. 12 August 1986.

FM 8-42. Combat Health Support in Stability Operations and Support Operations. 27 October 1997.

FM 8-50. Prevention and Medical Management of Laser Injuries. 8 August 1990.

FM 8-51. Combat Stress Control in a Theater of Operations—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 29 September 1994.

FM 8-55. Planning for Health Service Support. 9 September 1994.

FM 8-250. Preventive Medicine Specialist. 27 January 1986. (Reprinted with basic including Change 1, 12 September 1986.)

FM 8-500. Hazardous Materials Injuries: A Manual for Pre-Hospital Care. Edition 4. 17 January 1997.

FM 10-52. Water Supply in Theaters of Operations. 11 July 1990.

FM 21-11. First Aid for Soldiers. 27 October 1988. (Reprinted with basic including Changes 1-2, 4 December 1991.)

FM 22-51. Leaders' Manual for Combat Stress Control. 29 September 1994.

FM 31-71. Northern Operations. 21 June 1971.

FM 90-3. Desert Operations. FMFM 7-27. 24 August 1993.

FM 90-5. Jungle Operations. 16 August 1982.

FM 90-10. Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain (MOUT). 15 August 1979.

STP 8-91 W15-SM-TG. Soldier's Manual, Skill Levels 1/2/3/4/5 and Trainer's Guide, MOS 91W, Health Care Specialist. 10 October 2001.

TC 8-13. Deployable Medical Systems—Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. 7 December 1990.

TM 3-4240-288-12&P. Operator's and Unit Maintenance Manual including Repair Parts and Special Tool List for Collective Protection Equipment NBC, Simplified M20 (NSN 4240-01-166-2254). NAVFAC P-475. 20 August 1987. (Reprinted with basic including Changes 1-2, 3 May 1989.)

TM 10-5410-228-10. Operator's Manual for Chemical Biological Protective Shelter System. 31 August 2001.

TM 10-5410-283-14&P. Operator's Unit, Direct Support, and General Support Maintenance Manual (Including Repair Parts and Special Tools Lists) for Chemically Protected Deployable Medical System (CP DEPMEDS) (NSN 5410-01-479-9730) (5410-01-479-9727) and CP DEPMEDS Training Set (6910-01-479-2464). 30 November 2001.


[INDEX]

References are to paragraph numbers unless otherwise indicated.

personnel protection, [2-6]a, [3-8]
planning, [3-8]
proximity, [3-1]c
replacements, [3-1]c
survival, [3-5]a, [3-16]c, [5-15], [5-22]a, [D-7]b
technical channels, [3-1]c
treatment, [3-7], [4-1]a(3)
heat stress, [2-6]a
homeland security, [2-7], [5-28], [C-12]
hospitalization
bed requirements, [D-8], [D-16], [D-24]
blood services, [5-11]
conventional operations, [4-8]
decontamination, [4-1]a(5)
defensive measures, [4-1]b
emergency services, [4-4]
general medical services, [4-5]
integrated battlefield, on, [4-1]a
intensive care, [5-11]
locations, [4-1]a(1)
logistics support, [4-1]b(2), [A-11]
nursing services, [4-7]
protection, [4-1]a(5) and b(2), [4-2]b(2)(b), [4-4]
protective procedures, [4-1]a(5) and b(1)
biological, [4-1]b(3)
chemical, [4-2]b(4)
MOPP levels, [4-1]b
nuclear, [4-2]b(2)
response, [4-2]a
surgical services, [4-6], [5-11]
warning system, [4-1]b(4)
initial effects
alternate operational sites, [3-10]
detection, [3-1]d, [5-7], [5-27], [A-1], [C-2], [C-4], [C-6]—7, [C-11], [Appendix E], [F-12]c, [F-14], [I-2], [J-1], [J-2]a, [J-4]b
installation medical authority, [5-28]
International Standardization Agreements, [D-1]
STANAG 2475, [p. viii], [D-3]
STANAG 2476, [p. viii], [D-11]
STANAG 2477, [p. viii], [D-19]
laboratory services, [5-9]—11, [A-1]Oa, [Appendix E]
biological specimens, [5-11], [5-14]
chain of custody, [5-14]
clinical, [5-11]
levels, [5-11]
samples, [5-10]
animals, small, [5-14]
environmental, [5-14]
field, [5-14]
food, [5-14]
soil, [5-14]
vegetation, [5-14]
support, [5-11]
theater Army medical laboratory, [5-11]
leadership
logistics, [2-6], [3-8], [4-2]b(4)(c), [5-6], [D-9], [D-12]a, [D-17], [D-25], [Appendix E]
main supply routes, [3-5]c
mass casualties, [2-1], [5-15]—16, [5-29], [A-10]b, [A-14]b, [A-15]b, [D-4]a, [D-12]a, [D-20]b
medical equipment sets
chemical agent patient decontamination, [3-8]b, [4-3]c(3), [C-2], [C-4]
chemical agent patient treatment, [3-8]b, [4-3]c(3), [C-2], [C-4]
medical evacuation, [2-5]b(3) and (5), [3-1]c and e, [3-2]a, [3-3]a, [3-10]b, [3-12]b, [3-17], [4-1], [5-28]
medical surveillance, [3-3]a, [3-14]f
medical treatment facility, [2-1], [2-2]a, [2-5]b, [3-3]c
mission-oriented protective posture
clothing, [2-5]b, [3-1]ab, [3-9]—10, [3-15]a, [5-19]b, [5-21]e, [C-3], [F-2]a
equipment, [2-5]b
performance degradation, [2-6]
movement and management of contaminated facilities, [2-5]b, [3-10]d
nuclear, biological, and chemical battlefield
considerations, [C-1]
defense, [3-1]b, [5-21]
leadership, [2-6], [3-1], [3-6], [3-17]a, [5-21], [Appendix E]
operational exposure guide, nuclear, [2-5]a, [3-1]b
operations in, [1-3]b(4), [2-2]a, [2-4]—5, [3-5]a, [3-9], [3-12]d, [3-16], [4-2]b(1)(c), (2), and (4)(c), [4-3]a, [5-14]—15, [5-17], [A-7], [C-2], [C-11], [Appendix E], [F-4]—5
strikes, [4-1]a
warning and reporting system, [4-1]b
nursing services, [4-7], [A-10]
operational
exposure guide, nuclear, [2-5]a, [3-1]b, [3-12]d, [3-17]b
plans, [2-5]a, [3-1]a
operations, [4-2]b(1)(c) and (2)(a), [4-3]a(2), [A-1], [A-7], [C-1], [C-5], [C-11], [D-3]d, [F-3]—5, [F-11]—12, [G-1]a, [J-1]d, [J-5]c(5)
security, [4-1]b(1), [4-2]b
passive defense measures, [3-14]b
patient
chemical agent, [A-14]
contaminated, [3-10]c, [3-12], [4-1]a(3), [C-5]
decontamination, [3-3]b, [3-10], [4-1]a(3) and b, [A-14]c, [A-15]c
externally contaminated, [3-12]a
holding, [3-3]a
internally contaminated, [3-12]a
irradiated, [3-12]a
management of, [A-10]c
number of, [2-1]b(3)
protective wrap, [3-17]f, [F-15]b(2)(a), [G-11]c
stability operations and support operations, in, [A-7]
types of, [2-1]b(3), [3-12]b, [C-4]
personnel
protection of, [2-1]b(9), [2-6]a
replacement of, [3-1]c
planning
considerations for, [D-4], [D-20]a
estimates, [D-2], [D-4], [D-11]c, [D-17], [D-19]
health service support, [3-9]
medical force, for, [D-10], [D-18], [D-20], [D-26]
medical NBC staff officer, [Appendix E]
mobilization, [C-2]—3
NBC, [3-5]c, [p. D-1]
predeployment, [C-2]
tool, medical, [D-2]
plans
establish a medical treatment facility, [C-1]
HSS, [3-17]d
load, [C-3]
movement, [C-3]
operation, [2-5]a, [3-1]a
tactical, [3-17]d
preventive medicine
arthropods, [5-2]b, [5-3]
climate, [5-2]a
detachments, [5-4]
determining factors, [5-1], [5-2]a
disease, [5-1]
divisional, [3-3]a, [5-3]
field hygiene and sanitation, [5-3]
field sanitation team, unit, [5-3]—4
immunizations, [5-3], [D-11]f
incidents and morbidity, [5-2]b
measures, [3-1]e, [5-1], [5-4], [5-11]—12
medical surveillance, [5-4]
occupational and environmental health threat, [5-3]—4
operations, [5-1]—2, [5-4]
pest management, [5-2]b, [5-4]
prophylaxis, [D-11]f
services, [3-3]a, [5-1], [5-14], [C-6], [Appendix E]
water and food, [5-2]a, [5-3]—4
protection
buildings of opportunity, use of, [3-1]d, [3-5]b, [3-12]
collective, [3-1]d, [3-2]b, [3-3]b, [3-4], [3-10]a, [3-15], [4-7], [C-2], [C-4]
covers, [3-1]d, [3-12]
environmental, [4-2]b(2), [4-5], [4-6]a and c, [4-7]c
hospital, [4-2]a
individual, [4-2]b, [5-21]d
mask-only, [4-2]b(4)(a), [4-7]b
materiel, [3-1]d, [4-2]b(4)(d)
overhead, [3-1]d, [3-12]
patient, [3-5]d, [4-2]b(4)(c), [A-6]
personnel, [3-5]b, [4-2]b(4)(a)
proximity, [3-1]c
shielding, [3-5]b, [4-2]b(2)
site selection, [3-12]
supplies, [3-5]b
types of, [3-1]d
warning system, [4-2]b(4)
expedient, [2-5]b(1), [3-5]b, [3-12]
shielding, [4-2]b(2)(b)3
radiation exposure status, [3-12]d, [3-17]b
radiological dispersal devices, [1-1]a, [4-1]a, [A-1]
rations, [F-6]b, [J-5]a(4)
reporting, [Appendix E]
return to duty, [3-1]e
samples, [5-3]—4, [5-9], [C-6]—7, [C-10], [Appendix E]
analysis of, [B-1]—2
chain of custody, [5-9], [5-14]a and b(1), [C-6]—7
documentation, [5-9]
collection, [5-9], [B-1]—2, [B-4]b
description of, [B-2]
environmental, [5-9], [5-14], [B-1], [B-3]b, [B-5]
air, [5-12]b(1), [5-14], [B-1], [B-8]
soil, [5-12]b(1), [5-14], [B-1], [B-10]
vapor, [B-8]
vegetation, [5-12]b(1), [5-14], [B-1], [B-4]
water, [5-12]b(1), [5-14], [B-1], [B-3]c, [B-9]
food, [5-9]b(1), [5-14], [J-4]b(1), [B-1], [B-3]d
handling, [5-9]
history of, [B-2]
identification, [5-9]b(1), [5-13]
labeling, [5-9], [5-13], [B-4]b
preservation, [5-9]b(1), [B-2], [B-4]b, [C-6]—7
transportation, [5-9]b(1)
sleep loss, [2-6]a
special medical response teams, [5-28]—29
specimens, [Appendix E]
analysis, [5-10]—11, [5-12]b, [A-10], [B-1]—3
ante mortem, [B-3]a
background documents, [B-18]
biological, [5-3]—4, [5-9], [A-10], [B-1], [B-5], [B-12]—13, [p. C-6]—7
chain of custody, [5-9]a, [5-11]—12, [5-14]b(1), [B-4], [B-17], [C-6]—7, [C-10]—11
civilians, from, [B-1]b, [B-13]
collection of, [5-3]—4, [5-9]b(1), [5-10]—12, [5-14], [B-1], [B-4]b, [B-12]—13, [C-7], [C-10]—11
description of, [B-2]
documentation of, [B-2]
field, [5-14]
history of, [B-2], [B-15]
identification, [5-9]b(1), [5-12]b, [5-13], [A-10]a
post mortem and forensic, [B-3]b, [B-14]
preservation, [5-9]b(1), [5-11]—12, [B-2]—3, [B-4]b, [B-15]—16, [C-6]—7, [C-10]—11
reporting, [5-12]b, [B-15], [B-17]
transportation, [5-9]a and b(1), [5-12]
types of, [B-3]
stability operations and support operations, [A-7]
Standardization Agreement (STANAG). See [International Standardization Agreements].
stress, [2-6]a
supply, Class VIII
tactical standing operating procedures, [C-2]
threat, [1-1]a
biological warfare, [1-2], [1-3]b, [3-14]
chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosive, [1-2]
chemical warfare, [1-2], [1-3]c
directed energy, [1-2]
medical, [1-2]
nuclear, [1-2], [1-3]a
radiological dispersal device, [1-2], [1-3]a
toxic industrial material, [1-1]b, [1-3]d
toxic industrial material, [1-1]b, [1-2], [3-1]a and d, [4-1]a, [5-3], [A-1], [A-15], [Appendix E]
training, [3-1]b, [C-3]
treatment, [3-1]—2, [3-7], [3-9]—10, [3-13]—16, [5-29], [A-3]a(3), [A-6]e, [A-10]d, [A-14]d, [A-15]d, [Appendix E]
advanced trauma management, [3-1]e, [3-9]
clean area, [3-1]—3, [3-10], [3-15], [3-17]b(4)
emergency medical treatment, [3-1]e, [3-3]b, [3-7], [3-9], [3-15]b, [4-1]a(3), [D-4]a, [D-12]a
triage, [2-3], [3-13], [4-1]a(3) and b, [4-4]b, [5-20], [5-29], [C-2], [C-5], [D-4]a, [D-5], [D-12]a, [D-13], [D-21]
veterinary services, [5-5], [5-14], [C-7], [Appendix E]
animal care, [5-8]
food protection, [5-6]
waste disposal, [F-6]b
water supply, [4-1]a, [C-2], [F-6]b, [I-1]—4
actions to protect, [I-3]
detection in, [I-2]
treatment of, [I-4]
weapons, [1-3], [3-1]b and c, [4-1]a, [A-1]
biological, [4-2]b(3), [5-2]b, [A-8], [D-11]e, [D-12]b
agents, [A-8]
behavior, [A-9]
dispersion, [A-8]—9
effects, [3-7], [A-7], [A-10], [D-11]c
incubation period, [A-8]a(3)
individual, [F-14]
infection, [A-8]a(2)
live agents, [A-8]a
spore-forming, [A-8]b
toxins, [A-8]c

categories
nonpersistent, [A-12]a(2)
persistent, [A-12]b(1)
protection against, [3-10]
vapor hazard, [3-10]d
chemical, [4-2]b(4)
agents, [3-7], [A-11]b
attacks types of, [A-11]b
behavior, [A-12]
blister, [Table A-12], [A-13]b, [D-20]e
blood, [Table A-12], [A-13]d
characteristics, [A-12]—13
incapacitating, [A-12]a, [Table A-12]
lung damaging, [Table A-12], [A-13]c
nerve, [Table A-12], [A-13]a
effects, [3-5]b, [A-11]
employment of, [A-1]
nuclear, [4-2]b(2)
biological effects, [A-4]
blast, [3-7], [3-12]a, [A-2]c, [A-3]a
burns, [A-4]
detonation of, [D-3]e
effects of, [D-3]d
electromagnetic pulse, [A-2]a, [D-4]d
eye injuries, [A-4]c
fallout, [3-12]b
overpressure, [A-3]a(2)
physical effects, [A-2]
physiological effects, [A-3], [A-5]
radiation injury, [3-7], [3-12]a
thermal injury, [3-7], [3-12]a, [D-4]a
radiological dispersal device, [1-1]b, [1-3], [A-1], [A-3]
threat, [1-1], [3-1]a, [3-2]b
work/rest cycles, [2-6]a


FM 4-02.7 (FM 8-10-7)
1 OCTOBER 2002

By Order of the Secretary of the Army:

ERIC K. SHINSEKI
General, United States Army
Chief of Staff

Official:

Administrative Assistant to the
Secretary of the Army
0225424

DISTRIBUTION:

Active Army, U.S. Army Reserve and Army National Guard: To be distributed in accordance with the initial distribution Number, 114899, requirements for FM 4-02.7.


TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE

Blank space in some sample documents in the text is denoted by ____.

Footnotes are all within a specific Table, including the Table of Contents. They are positioned at the bottom of that Table, as in the original text, and are denoted by [*] or [**].

Page numbering of the original text has been retained. It is in the form a-b, where a is a Chapter number or Appendix letter, and b is the sequential number within that section. For example B-3 is the third page in Appendix B.

Obvious punctuation errors have been corrected after careful comparison with other occurrences within the text and consultation of external sources.

Fractions in the original text are mostly full-height format, eg 1/2, and have been left in that form. Some are half-height and have been converted to Unicode fractions eg ½ ¾ whenever possible.

Except for those changes noted below, all misspelling in the text, and inconsistent or archaic usage, have been retained.

Chapter-Paragraph:
[2-1.] 'thermoberic' replaced by 'thermobaric'.
[3-3.] 'proves' replaced by 'provides'.
[3-8.] 'company's' replaced by 'companies'.
[4-3.] 'are also' replaced by 'is also'.
Appendix:
[Table A-1.] 'RADIATON' replaced by 'RADIATION'.
[Table A-7.] 'Cal/cm2/sec' replaced by 'Cal/cm2/sec'.
[Table A-10.] '0.8%-2% CANCER.' replaced by '0.8%-2%'.
[Table A-13.] 'Characteristics' replaced by 'Characteristics of'.
[Para B-11.] 'handsful' replaced by 'handful'.
[Para B-18.] 'BLUFFED VISION' replaced by 'BLURRED VISION'.
[Para J-5.] 'modify to M43' replaced by 'modify the M43'.
Index:
[heat injury prevention.] '6-10g(4)' replaced by 'G-8'.
[monitor for completeness.] '6-10f' replaced by 'G-10g'.