CHAPTER
II DECONTAMINATION OPERATIONS: PLAN, PREPARE, AND EXECUTE
CHAPTER
III IMMEDIATE DECONTAMINATION CHAPTER IV OPERATIONAL DECONTAMINATION CHAPTER V
THOROUGH DECONTAMINATION Background......................................................................................
II-1 Decontamination
Planning............................................................
II-1Wartime Planning
Considerations.................................................
II-3Homeland Security Planning Considerations
..............................
II-6Preattack Decontamination Operations
.......................................
II-7Execution................................................................................................
II-10Postdecontamination Operations......................................................
II-11Background....................................................................................
III-1
Skin Decontamination
..................................................................
III-1
Personal Wipe
Down......................................................................
III-1
Operator Wipe Down
.....................................................................
III-2
Spot Decontamination
...................................................................
III-3
Background....................................................................................
IV-1
Planning .........................................................................................
IV-1
Phases.............................................................................................
IV-2
Background......................................................................................
V-1
Planning
..........................................................................................
V-2
Preparation......................................................................................
V-3
Execution.........................................................................................
V-3
Predecontamination Staging Area
............................................. ...
V-6
Vehicle
Crews..................................................................................
V-6
Detailed Equipment Decontamination and
Detailed TroopDecontamination Areas
V-7
Thorough Decontamination Under Unusual
Conditions ...........
V-30
Colocation of Patient Decontamination
With Troop Decontamination.........................
Chapter I
Decontamination: Concepts, Principles, and Levels Chapter I addresses the threats, purposes, and
principles behind CBRNdecontamination.
Chapter II
Decontamination Operations: Plan, Prepare, and Execute Chapter II addresses the planning of decontamination
operations for wartime and for civil support (CS). It also addresses the
reconnaissance and preparation of decontamination sites.
Chapter III
Immediate Decontamination Chapter III
addresses the steps used for immediate decontamination. This chapter
alsodiscusses the techniques and procedures for using the most common
decontamination kits and equipment available in the US inventory.
Chapter
IV Operational Decontamination Chapter IV
addresses the planning, preparing, executing, and implementing techniques for
operational decontamination. It covers vehicle wash down and mission-oriented
protective posture (MOPP) gear exchange.
Chapter V Thorough
Decontamination Chapter V addresses
planning, preparing, and executing the techniques for thorough decontamination.
It covers predecontamination requirements, decontamination techniques, detailed
troop decontamination (DTD), detailed equipment decontamination (DED),
postdecontamination operations, site closure, and resupply.
Chapter II
DECONTAMINATION OPERATIONS: PLAN, PREPARE, AND
EXECUTE
1. Background Decontamination planning provides recommendations for
commanders’ guidance. This helps ensure that forces and facilities are prepared
to operate in CBRN environments; supports the commander’s decision-making
requirements; and identifies, assesses, and estimates the enemy’s CBRN
capabilities, intentions, and most likely courses of action (COAs).
2.
Decontamination Planning The
decontamination planner must consider the hazards that may result from CBRN or
TIM contamination. Decontamination assessments include mission analysis, COA
development, and the analysis and comparison of enemy and friendly COAs.
Decontamination planning is dynamic and continuous from preattack to
postattack, through recovery operations. NOTE: TIC and other hazardous
materials [HAZMAT] are considered TIM throughout this manual. The unit CBRN
defense personnel and staff work together to ensure that decontamination
planning is fully integrated into deliberate and crisis action planning. They
accomplish this through wargaming friendly versus enemy COAs and by mutually
developing products designed to assist the service components, multinational
partners, and joint force commanders (JFCs) decision-making processes.
a. Commanders, with input
from their staffs, assess their vulnerability to CBRNattacks. Commanders
determine the required protection for their units by assessing the capabilities
of the enemy. They estimate the likely impact of CBRN attacks and, based on the
concept of operations (CONOPS), determine the methods to reduce the impact and
allow for mission accomplishment. This includes MOPP acclimatization training
anddecontamination planning to mitigate the affects of a CBRN attack. See
Multiservice Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Nuclear, Biological, and
Chemical Vulnerability Assessment for further information on CBRN vulnerability
assessment (VA).
b. The CBRN planner writes a
decontamination plan as part of a CBRN defense annex of the operation order
(OPORD).
(1) In preparing the decontamination portion
of the CBRN defense annex, the planner assesses the likelihood that
decontamination operations will be required, the probable extent of those
operations, and the best procedures for execution.
(2) In preparing the
decontamination portion of the CBRN defense annex, the planner should consider
the following questions: •Does the enemy possess CBRN weapons and has he
demonstrated the intent to use them? •Does the
unit’s mission bring it into likely contact with TIM hazards? 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 II-1
•What is the unit’s decontamination capability (see
Appendixes G and H for a summary of decontamination capabilities for the
services)? •Does weather and terrain favor enemy use of CBRN
weapons? (For terrain decontamination, see Appendix I.) •What are the unit’s logistics requirements? •What is the unit’s level of decontamination training? •Is contamination avoidance possible? •What decontamination assets are available? •What likely decontamination sites are available
(through map reconnaissance)?
(3) During the plan
preparation, all factors of the METT-TC considerations are measured. The
METT-TC considerations will impact the representative planning areas (e.g.,
decontamination sites, priorities of effort, decontamination decisions, and
decontamination triage).
(a) The preselection of
decontamination sites is essentially a map reconnaissance that is based on the
supported commander’s plan. (Detailed information ona potential site may be
determined from intelligence assets.) Preselected sites should be within an
avenue of approach, but just off main routes for easy access. Close proximity
torivers, streams, or other water sources is also important. In conducting a
mapreconnaissance, consider the following: •Probable
level of decontamination that will be conducted. •Terrain
(soil composition). •Mission. •Cover
and concealment. •Water sources. •Drainage.
•Presence or absence of contamination. •Road network that facilitates the movement in and out
of the site for both the contaminated unit and the resupply squad. •Adequate area for the dispersal of equipment before,
during, and after decontamination. •Location
of downwind friendly personnel.
(b) The commander will establish priorities of
effort that determine which contaminated units are decontaminated first. Since
decontamination assets are limited, the commander must establish a priority of
decontamination support. The priority of effortlists the units in the order
they will receive decontamination support. This can changefrom phase to phase
during an operation. The CBRN staff develops the priority of effort based on an
understanding of the commander’s intent. II-2 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I)
3-2.60 4 April 2006
(c) The commander decides
when and where operational and thorough decontamination will occur according to
METT-TC. Note that the different levels of immediate decontamination always
occur as battle drills at the prescribed times following a CBRN attack.
(d) Planning to decontaminate what is
necessary ensures that units or activities understand the decontamination
triage (identifying clean and dirty elements). Even though a unit has been
identified for decontamination, it does not follow that each individual,
vehicle, or item belonging to that unit is contaminated. Decontamination
triageis the process of identifying those individuals, vehicles, aircraft,
ships, ships spaces, or items of equipment that require decontamination. Only
the identified elements are to be processed through the decontamination site.
The commander may then employ his uncontaminated elements to support the
decontamination operation. c. Plans for decontamination operations will be
included in the CBRN defense annex to the operation plan (OPLAN) or OPORD. In
preparing the decontamination portion of the CBRN defense annexes, the planner
must assess the disposition of forces and assets available for CBRN
reconnaissance and decontamination. It must identify locations for preselected
decontamination sites and linkup points and the missions for the CBRN
decontamination assets. It must also identify plans for divert airfields and/or
naval vessels for recovery operations and identify contingency plans for
stations, ports, airfields, forward arming and refueling points (FARPs), and
facilities to receive contaminated aircraft and ships with personnel and cargo
aboard.
3. Wartime
Planning
Considerations Multiple factors must be considered when planning CBRN
decontamination during wartime. a. Joint or Combined Operations. These factors
include the following: •Intelligence collection, analysis, and production. •Situational awareness (SA). •Common planning, training, and equipment standards. •Health service support (HSS). •Protection of the joint rear area (JRA) and theater
sustainment capabilities. •Priorities. •Minimum essential requirements for the
decontamination. •Human factor effects of the MOPP. •Logistics burden of CBRN decontamination. •Effect of the CBRN attack on the C2 systems. •Capabilities and limitations of US, multinational, and
host nation (HN) decontamination assets. •Consequence
management (CM) support outside the continental United States(OCONUS), its
territories, and possessions. •Mortuary affairs. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 II-3
(1) SA. Adequate SA is a
central concern for decontamination planning. An integrated warning and
reporting system provides a significant measure of protection by allowing friendly
forces to minimize exposure to the hazard. Accurate and timely understanding of
the hazard and its effect minimizes the possibility of having excessive or
inadequate force protection (FP). Warning system provisions also address the
need to warn personnel, based on an alarm, thus causing units to increase their
protective posture, and can act as a warning order (WARNORD) for dedicated
decontamination assets.
(2) Common Planning,
Training, and Equipment Standards. Common standards for CBRN decontamination
(especially training, exercises, and equipment maintenance) enhance joint force
capabilities.
(3) HSS. Key elements of HSS
include casualty estimation, chemoprophylaxis and immunizations, MEDSURV,
PVNTMED, diagnostics, mass casualty management, evacuation, and patient
decontamination requirements. HSS planning addressesdecontamination
considerations. Unit plans should recognize that CBRN attacks have the
potential to create mass casualties. The treatment and evacuation of CBRN
patients will be difficult and hazardous to the patients, medical personnel,
and medical treatment facilities (MTFs). HSS CBRN defense planning includes
appropriate liaison with affected and supportive civilian HSS MTFs and an
assessment of the capabilities and limitations of those MTFs.
(4) Protection of the JRA and Theater
Sustainment Capabilities. The JRA and theater sustainment capabilities must be
protected. A successful adversary CBRN attackon a critical logistics facility
or a major TIM attack near it may degrade OPTEMPO and force generation
capabilities. Mitigation and decontamination measures focus on maintaining
support to combat operations and rapidly restoring the degraded capabilities.
Alternate sites are designated and exercised in advance to ensure uninterrupted
JRA operations and theater sustainment capabilities.
(5) Priorities. In wartime,
manpower and time are critical resources that cannot be wasted on nonessential
tasks. Therefore, the decontamination of areas, facilities, and equipment will
be prioritized and limited by necessity, to allow resumption of operations by
protected personnel. Priorities will be directly impacted by the mission with
the realization that protected personnel can work with contaminated equipment.
Therefore, decontamination must be aimed at restoring mission capability rather
than totally minimizing hazards. If decontamination is not possible or needed,
non-mission-essential areas may be marked and restricted from use. The first
priority willbe given to personal decontamination to prevent casualties and
reduce manpower losses. The second priority will be the decontamination of
equipment and material or facilities necessary to meet mission requirements as
established by the commander. Duringwartime, decontamination operations will be
expedited as the situation requires. Primaryconsiderations will be for
effective accomplishment of the mission.
(6) Minimum Essential
Requirements. The minimal conditions that should be met in planning
decontamination operations are as follows: •Identification
of contamination. •Designation and marking of contaminated area. •Identification of facilities, equipment, and material
that have been contaminated. II-4 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4
April 2006
Availability of personnel to
fully operate each decontamination station. •Number
and deployment or utilization of decontamination personnel. •Selection of appropriate decontaminant and
decontamination equipment. •Selection of an
effective method of decontamination. •Selection
of a site for decontamination of equipment, supplies, and personnel.
(7) Human Factor Effects of
MOPP.
(a) Physiological and
psychological stress will occur during decontamination operations. Body
temperature must be maintained within a narrow limit for optimum physical and
mental performance. MOPP gear restricts the heat loss mechanisms because of its
high insulation and low permeability to water vapor. In addition, physical work
requires more effort when personnel wear protective clothing because of its
added weight and restricted movement. Work intensity, which is managed
byleaders, is also a major contributing factor to heat stress.
(b) Military personnel wearing MOPP while
conducting decontamination may experience heat stress. To prevent heat stress
from resulting in injuries, they follow a prescribed cycle of work and rest
periods. See Table II-1 for work/rest cycles and water replacement guidelines.
The work/rest cycles are based on the environment (temperature, humidity, and
solar load), the workload of the individual, and the clothing ensemble being
worn. These work/rest cycles are usually described in terms of minutes of work
allowed per hour. The remainder of the hour (after completing the work allowed)
is used for rest, allowing heat to dissipate and allowing the individual to
cool down. The local application of work/rest cycles is directly influenced by
METT-TC. Table II-1. Work/Rest
Cycles and Water Replacement Guidelines Heat Category WBGT Index (°F) 1, 2 Light (Easy) Work
Moderate Work Hard (Heavy) Work Work/Rest (minutes) 4, 5 Water Intake (qt/hr) 3 Work/Rest (minutes)4, 5 Water Intake (qt/hr)3 Work/Rest (minutes)
Water Intake (qt/hr) 1 78–81.9 No limit ½ No limit ¾ 40/20 ¾ 2 (Green) 82–84.9
No limit ½ 50/10 ¾ 30/30 1 3 (Yellow) 85–87.9 No limit ¾ 40/20 ¾ 30/30 1 4
(Red) 88–89.9 No limit ¾ 30/30 ¾ 20/40 1 5 (Black) More than 90 50/10 1 20/40 1
10/50 1 1Wearing all MOPP
overgarments (MOPP4) adds 10°F to the WBGT index.2If wearing body armor, add 5°F to WBGT in humid
climates. 3Hourly fluid intake
should not exceed 1¼ quarts, and daily fluid intake should not exceed 12
liters. 4Rest means minimal
physical activity (sitting or standing), accomplished in the shade if possible.
The information pertains to acclimated service personnel. 5The work/rest time and
fluid replacement volumes will sustain performance and hydration for at least 4
hours of work in the specified heat category. Individual water needs will vary
±¼ qt/hr.
(c) The
incidence of heat casualties can be reduced if personnel are allowed to lower
their work intensity and take frequent rest breaks. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 II-5
(8) Logistics Burden of CBRN
Attacks. See Multiservice Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for Nuclear,
Biological, and Chemical Protection.
(9) Effects of CBRN Attacks on C2 Systems.
CBRN attacks can degrade C2 systems. Effective decontamination operations rely
on a C2 system that keeps the commander informed and communicates the
commander’s intent. For example, beingnotified of the commander’s priorities
for decontamination is critical for ensuring that support is synchronized.
(10) Capabilities and Limitations of US,
Multinational, and HN Decontamination Assets. In preparation for multinational
operations, unit planners assess coalition member CBRN capabilities for
decontamination and interoperability with US forces. The planning process should
consider the implications and feasibility of diverting US assets and
capabilities to support HN and other multinational members in accomplishing the
required decontamination objectives.
(11) OCONUS CM Support.
OCONUS CM support will generally be characterized by crisis action planning. A
CBRN or TIM incident may result in US forces providing OCONUS decontamination
support. The support would probably be for a short duration and would require
extensive coordination and liaison with the HN. b. International Coalition
Operations. Decontamination may be conducted withinthe context of multinational
arrangements. Planning is accomplished through both US and multinational
channels. Coordinated CBRN defense planning is essential to the unity effort
(e.g., operations; logistics (including infrastructure); intelligence;
deception; decontamination; warning, detection, and monitoring; CM; and CBRN
interoperability). Supporting plans that address coordination and liaison, host
nation support (HNS), and the provision of mutual support are examples of the
essential tasks that must be accomplished.
4. Homeland
Security Planning Considerations Decontamination
support for HLS and CS present unique planning considerations. CBRN
decontamination planning ranges from planning to provide technical assistance
and recommendations to planning for resources for mass decontamination. The
following are examples of planning considerations that apply for HLS and CS: •CBRN specialists and planners understand and can
operate within the civilian based incident command system (ICS). •CBRN specialists and planners understand the terms of
reference used tosupport first-responder decontamination operations. •CBRN specialists conduct planning with civilian
counterparts at the federal, state, or local level, as applicable. •CBRN specialists and planners train and exercise for
support of HLS or CS operations. •CBRN
specialists, as required, maintain the required certification to operate in a
CS mission with civilian first responders. •Military
issue of the IPE (MOPP ensembles) do not meet Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) Level C requirements. II-6 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
5. Preattack
Decontamination Operations Preattack
decontamination actions are taken to increase readiness. a. Preattack
Considerations. Preattack considerations extend from the present until the
first enemy weapon effects occur within the theater of operations.
(1) Commanders will conduct VA and estimate
the need for decontamination based on the threat, the resources available for
decontamination, and the potential results of this operation. Preattack actions
also consider the following: •Assessing the CBRN
threat. •Identifying and preparing collective protective
shelters (CPSs) and MTFs. •Ensuring the
proficiency in CBRN decontamination procedures and methods. •Preparing to conduct decontamination operations (based
on the nature and extent of contamination and resources available for
decontamination). •Preparing to conduct response procedures (before and
after a CBRN attack). Guidance must be based on the concept that there may be
no warning before an attack and that all attacks in a high-threat area may
contain CBRN agents. •Providing instructions for a warning unit or the base
populace. •Notifying key personnel of an attack, of procedures
for the activation of preselected CPSs, and of the need to don the protective
clothing. •Decontaminating mission-essential facilities (see
Appendix I for information on terrain decontamination). •Identifying recovery actions that must begin as soon
as possible after the attack.
(2) Subordinate units and activities must
support and comply with the commander’s intent. They develop contingency plans
for CBRN defense actions that support missions conducted within the theater
assigned. Plans must address CBRN detection, warning, reporting, and decontaminating
procedures and a rapid transition into a CBRN defensive posture.
(3) Specialized CBRN teams
will be formed from existing personnel resources to detect, identify, and
decontaminate CBRN contamination and to operate protective shelters. (4) Each
soldier must be trained to perform decontamination of his own body, clothing,
personal equipment, individual weapons, and casualties. b. Reconnaissance/Site
Survey of Decontamination Sites. Decontamination site selection is necessary
during preattack operational and thorough decontamination planning. The
following criteria should be considered for decontamination site selection: •Wind direction (to include downwind direction from
friendly personnel). •Water supply. •Overhead
concealment. 4
April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 II-7
•Maximum use of existing facilities. •Drainage. •Trafficability.
The path or road must be able to withstand large amounts of water being placed
on it. •Accessibility. The site should be accessible to the
largest vehicle in the contaminated unit. •Size.
The area must be large enough to handle all stations of the level of
decontamination being conducted, especially Station 3 of thorough
decontamination. c. Site and Linkup Point Selection.
(1) The controlling headquarters
(HQ) selects the potential decontamination sites as part of mission planning.
More than likely, this HQ will only be capable of a map reconnaissance. For
decontamination sites on the friendly side of the forward line of own troops
(FLOT), every effort must be made to conduct a ground reconnaissance of the
site. For thorough decontamination and supported operational decontamination,
it is imperative that these sites be further reconnaissanced by the supporting
decontamination unit. For example, when an operational decontamination is
executed by an Army battalion, the battalion CBRN noncommissioned officer (NCO)
should make every attempt to reconnoiter these sites.
(2) As decontamination sites
are selected (during the map reconnaissance), one or more linkup points are
chosen to support each site. Linkup at the designated point includes
establishing security, positioning the necessary marshalling areas,
camouflaging the entry and exit points, designating the direction of flow into
and out of the site, and ensuring that the unit’s supply or prestaged embarked
assets have sufficient replacement MOPP gear. d. Coordination.
(1) The individual in charge
of decontamination must make careful coordination with those elements involved
to ensure the successful completion of the operation. The unit to be
decontaminated must be aware of linkup points, times, and its own
responsibilities for the procedure.
(2) Much of the coordination will be arranged
through the decontamination element or the unit’s higher echelon, particularly
when involving the following: •Power-driven
decontamination equipment (PDDE) support. •Engineer
support for site preparation and closure. •Supply
and transportation for linkup with bulk water trucks. •Air defense and security forces for security when
those elements are required. •HSS. •Augmentee support. •Support
of medical patient decontamination operations (if the MTF is colocated adjacent
to troop decontamination). II-8 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4
April 2006
e. Communications. Primary
communications between the decontamination element and the supported unit will
be via radio. Therefore, signal operating instructions (SOI) should be included
in the supported unit’s initial request for decontamination support. f.
Maintaining SA.
(1) Warnings. Warnings of
CBRN contamination are conveyed by alarms and signals. Units use easily
recognizable and reliable alarm methods to respond quickly and reliably to CBRN
hazards. Standard alarms, the Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Warning and
Reporting System (NBCWRS), and contamination markers help give orderly warning
that may also require a change of MOPP level. Alarms and signals may include
the following: •Audible alarms. •Automatic
alarms. •Visual signals.
(2) Markings. Contamination
is marked to warn friendly personnel. Units or CBRN reconnaissance teams mark
the likely entry points into the area and report contamination to higher HQ.
The only exception is when marking would help the enemy. In this event, the
hazard is reported to higher HQ as an unmarked contaminated area. When a unit
enters a previously marked contaminated area, personnel check the extent of
contamination and adjust plans as necessary. As the hazard area changes, the
unit relocates the signs. When the hazard passes, the unit removes the signs.
The unit reportsall changes to higher HQ. The decontamination site
noncommissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) ensures that his team properly marks
the decontamination site with the standard markings and sends the NBC5 (areas
of actual contamination) report forward.
(3) Control Measures. (a)
Ensure that drivers of contaminated vehicles know when to move into position at
the wash-down location. (b) Ensure that the contaminated unit has provided site
security. (c) See Appendix J for thorough decontamination station signs used as
control measures.
(4) Wide-area data flow (Web
site) provides up-to-date status, information, and conditions across a broad
spectrum. g. Maintenance of Decontamination Equipment. A thorough operator
levelmaintenance should be done on all decontamination equipment. If no
mission-capable equipment is found, all the shortcomings should be forwarded to
higher echelons so that the force commander is aware of the full
decontamination capability. h. Pre-positioning of Logistics. Units will need to
pre-position the replacement IPE for issue at the end of the DED as part of the
thorough decontamination. If replacement IPE is needed during operational
decontamination, the unit should pre-position the IPE for use during MOPP gear
exchange. As the CBRN threat rises, IPE and chemical decontamination equipment
should be pre-positioned forward to ensure timely delivery to units for
operational and thorough decontamination. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 II-9
i. Other Preattack Actions.
Other key preattack actions are included in Table II-2. Table II-2. Preattack
Decontamination Actions •Know
the current and future missions. •Outline the capabilities of the unit or
activity. •Know the external support available from CBRN units. •Know the
decontamination support available to detached/remote elements. •Designate the
decontamination sites. •Employ avoidance (whenever possible) within the context
of the mission. •Designate the TFAs. •Establish and exercise the CBRN warning
and reporting system.
6. Execution Actions necessary to successfully execute
decontamination operations include establishing a C2 site, establishing clean
areas or zones, ensuring security, providing proper and detailed reporting,
ensuring the availability of resources, and controlling and documenting
personnel exposure. a. Decontamination Site C2. In a thorough decontamination,
the supported unit is responsible for overall control. The level that an
operational decontamination operation is being conducted determines C2 for the
decontamination site. There are different levels (ortechniques) of control when
conducting operational decontamination.
(1) Decentralized Operational Decontamination.
The unit commander requests decontamination equipment support, selects the
decontamination site, links up with the decontamination element, and conducts
the decontamination.
(2) Centralized Operational
Decontamination. The CBRN staff controls the decontamination. The commander
selects the site, and the battalion CBRN staff directs site setup and security
and provides C2. The CBRN staff officer or NCO travels with the decontamination
element and communicates via radio. b. Establishment of Clean Areas and Zones.
A predecontamination staging area is established downwind of the
decontamination site. In the predecontamination staging area, the supported
commander segregates vehicles by checking for contamination. Clean areas must
be provided to avoid recontaminating personnel and equipment as they finish the
decontamination process. The decontamination element should be set upwind of
the decontamination site entrance. The MOPP gear exchange should be in place
upwind and at a 45° angle of vehicle wash down. After processing, the vehicles
should marshal in a postdecontamination assembly area (AA) upwind of the DTD
and DED areas. c. Security. Security ensures that the decontamination operation
is conducted without interference. The supported unit is responsible for site security.
Cover and concealment must be considered in decontamination site selection.
Traffic control is another component of security. Linkup points and the
entrances to AAs should be controlled to ensure that uncontaminated personnel
or vehicles do not enter. d. Reporting. Proper and detailed reporting is
critical to the success of the decontamination operation and to the restoration
operations that will occur at the end of the conflict. At the end of the
decontamination operation, several things must be reported. II-10 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
The CBRN unit will be
responsible for submitting a complete NBC5 report after the site is closed. The
supported unit will report the following to its higher HQ: •Quantity and types of vehicles decontaminated. •Number of personnel decontaminated through the DTD. •Number of causalities. •Time
decontamination site was opened and closed. e. Consumption Rates.
Decontamination operations expend resources. The chemical unit must plan to
have enough of the proper supplies on hand to perform its mission. For
information on consumption rates, see Chapter XII. f. Resupply. After a
decontamination operation, the CBRN unit must restore itself to mission-capable
status. While the supported unit has the requirement to keep on-hand supplies
to conduct a DTD, the supporting CBRN unit may supply the majority of the
equipment and supplies expended. Likewise, while the supported unit is required
to provide the chemical unit with replacement supplies and material at the end
of a DED, the CBRN unit should make its material requirements known to the
maneuver forces logistics staff. The logistics staff may then arrange for
decontamination supplies to be issued, often in “push” packages. g. Personnel
Exposure Control and Documentation. During decontamination operations, steps
should be taken to limit the exposure of personnel to the contamination. Such
measures include the decontamination crews wearing toxicological aprons or
wet-weather gear over MOPP gear and locating post decontamination AAs upwind.
The accurate documentation of individual exposure to contaminants will be
essential for proper medical treatment should those personnel become injured.
7.
Postdecontamination Operations Postdecontamination
operations provide for the restoration of combat power to the commander. a.
Immediately following an attack, recovery operations will be
initiated.Operations related to mission-essential operations may continue in a
contaminated environment. Those personnel not immediately required to ensure
the continuation of mission-essential activities will likely remain in their
shelters until the hazard dissipates or decontamination efforts allow
resumption of their normal duties. b. Postattack operations involve assessing
the degree of mission degradation after the attack and reporting postattack
readiness. c. Commanders will ensure that postattack operations emphasize those
actions necessary to restore mission and support functions. Representative
postattack actions include the following: •Assessing
damage and casualties. •Restoring communications for C2. •Detecting, identifying, marking, isolating,
decontaminating, and reporting contaminated areas and equipment. •Performing casualty decontamination. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 II-11
d. After completion of
operational or thorough decontamination, units close out the sites used for
MOPP gear exchange, vehicle wash down, DED, and DTD. In a
thoroughdecontamination, the DED is closed first. The CBRN unit then processes
through the DTD and the DTD is closed. Then the CBRN unit marks the area as a
contaminated area and reports its exact location to the supported unit using an
NBC4 report. See Chapters IV andV for procedures to close a site.
---Chapter III IMMEDIATE DECONTAMINATION---
1. Background Once aware of chemical-biological (CB) contamination
on the bare skin, initiate immediate decontamination techniques, without
command, by using the personal skin decontamination kit (SDK). Decontaminate
the hood, mask, gloves, and weapon using the individual equipment decontamination kit (IEDK). To remove
radiological contamination from equipment and personnel, brush it off and wash
the area with soap and water. NOTE: Throughout this manual, SDK refers to the
M291 kit and IEDK refers to the M295 kit.
2. Skin
Decontamination Start the skin
decontamination techniques within 1 minute of becoming contaminated. Some toxic
chemical agents, especially nerve agents, kill within minutes. a. Chemical.
(1) Use the SDK within 1 minute of
contamination of the exposed skin. Instructions for its use are listed on the
individual packet within the kit. Flushing the eyes with water is also a
critical immediate decontamination action and should occur as soon as possible
following contamination.
(2) If an SDK is not available,
chemical contamination may be blotted from the skin with a cloth and flushed
with water from a canteen. Soap (if available) can be used to wash the agent
from the skin. Washing with soap and water (preferably warm water) is the best
method for toxic-agent removal if SDKs are not available, but this method is
not as effective as using the decontamination kits.
b. Biological.
Immediately decontaminate using soap and water when there is a suspected
exposure to a BW agent. Careful washing removes nearly all the agent from the
skin’s surface. Hypochlorite solution
or other disinfectants are reserved for gross contamination (e.g., following
the spill of a solid or liquid agent from a munition directly onto the skin).
Grossly contaminated skin surfaces should be washed with a 0.5 percent chlorine solution, if available, with a contact time
of 10 to 15 minutes. See Appendix C for details on how to make this solution.
c. Radiological. To remove radiological dust
particles, brush, wash, or wipe them off. If MOPP gear is wet, conduct a MOPP
gear exchange as soon as possible because brushing or shaking will not remove
the contamination. Wash the exposed areas of theskin with soap and water, and
pay particular attention to the hair and fingernails.
3. Personal Wipe
Down The personal wipe down technique is
most effective when done within 15 minutes of being contaminated. Using the
IEDK, wipe down the mask, hood, gloves, and other essential gear. Use the M295
IEDK, an M291 SDK pad, a stick, or any stiff device to remove the gross
contamination from the protective overgarment. Scrape any clumps off 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 III-1
the material. Brush off
radiological contamination or frozen chemical-agent contamination. See
Multiservice Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Nuclear, Biological, and
Chemical (NBC) Protection for detailed information on overgarment protective
qualities. a. Chemical. Decontaminate individual equipment using the IEDKs. The
ICAMs, chemical-agent monitors (CAMs), and M8/M9 detector paper are used to
detect contamination and monitor the level of contamination on the equipment.
b. Biological. Wash with soap and water. If water is not available, use IEDKs
in the same manner as described for chemical-agent decontamination. c.
Radiological. Locate radiological contamination with monitoring equipment and
remove by brushing or shaking it off. Avoid breathing the dust particles by
wearing the protective mask or a piece of cloth over the nose and mouth. Wipe
off the equipment with soapy water (preferably warm) using rags or damp paper
towels.
4. Operator
Wipe Down Decontaminate other
mission-essential surfaces of the equipment before continuing the mission.
Operators wipe down is most effective when done within 15 minutes of
contamination. a. Chemical.
(1) Decontaminate the
surfaces that must be touched on the exterior of the vehicle or the equipment
with the M100 SDS. If the M100 SDS is unavailable, scrub the surfaces with
super tropical bleach (STB) to decontaminate the equipment. NOTE: The M100 has
not been authorized for use on USN or USMC aircraft. Use hot, soapy water to
perform operator’s wipe down on all aircraft. Also, STB should not be used to
decontaminate aircraft surfaces.
(2) Scrub STB dry mix or
slurry onto the exterior surface with brushes (if available). Wait 30 minutes,
and then wash it off. If necessary, use the nonstandard decontaminants that are
discussed in Appendix C. The ICAM, CAM, and M8/M9 detector paper are used to
determine what surfaces require decontamination. b. Biological. For
decontamination of equipment, a 0.5 percent chlorine solution should be used,
if available. A contact time of 30 minutes prior to normal cleaning is
required. Bleach is corrosive to most metals and fabrics so rinse thoroughly
and oil the metal surfaces after completion. Other nonstandard biological
decontaminants are described in Appendix C. NOTE: Bleach has not been
authorized for use on USN or USMC aircraft. Use hot soapy water to perform
operators wipe down on all aircraft. c. Radiological. If surfaces are
contaminated by fallout, rain out, neutron-induced contaminations, or any type
of radiological agent, use the monitoring equipment to help locate it and then
decontaminate the surfaces as required. Decontaminate if detection equipment is
not available and contamination is suspected. Radiological contamination
canusually be removed by brushing or scraping. Water is effective for flushing
away radiological contamination; however, use drainage ditches that flow into a
sump to control the runoff. Remember, the contamination has not been destroyed,
it has just been moved. The runoff will still be hazardous. If time permits,
brush or scoop away the top inch of soil from the fighting position to lower
the effects of radiological contamination. III-2 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
5. Spot
Decontamination
a.
Purpose.
Aircrews and aircraft ground
support crews can use spot decontamination as an immediate measure to remove
contamination from critical locations. Spot decontamination is performed to
limit the spread of contamination on aircraft that requires servicing between
sorties, to support ingress and egress of aircraft by crews and passengers, and
when performing pre- and postflight inspections. Spot decontaminationreduces
the contamination on the areas that must be touched during servicing.
b. Procedures.
(1) Ensure that sufficient quantities of soapy
water or applicable aircraft cleaner and fresh water are available.
(2) Scrub service areas with soapy water using
brushes, rags, or sponges until deposited material, dirt, and grime are
removed.
(3) Rinse areas with fresh
water from a bucket or hose.
(4) Ensure that service providers
decontaminate gloves (SDK, soapy water, or high-test hypochlorite [HTH]
solution).
(5) Perform service on the
aircraft.
(6) Decontaminate runoff by
applying a standard or nonstandard decontaminant to the deck/ground/airfield.
Runoff can be hosed overboard or into collection sumps. If runoff is hosed
without prior decontamination, it should be treated as contaminated
Chapter IV OPERATIONAL
DECONTAMINATION
1. Background
Operational decontamination
limits the spread and transfer of contamination, allows temporary relief from
MOPP4, and facilitates additional decontamination requirements. By speeding up
the weathering process, the need for a thorough decontamination may be eliminated.
This chapter focuses on land forces operational decontamination TTP. This
process will likely require about a 120-square-yard area (depending on the
number of contaminated vehicles) and may not require a nearby water source. An
operationaldecontamination consists of a vehicle wash down and a MOPP gear
exchange. The techniques that may be used to conduct an operational
decontamination include the following: •Decentralized
control for a company-size unit. •Centralized
control for a battalion-size unit. •Centralized
control for a brigade-size unit. NOTES:
1. See Naval Ships Technical
Manual (NSTM) 470 and NSTM 070 for operational decontamination procedures and
Naval Air (NAVAIR) 00-80T-121 for TTP on USN and USMC aircrews, aircraft, and
support equipment.
2. See Recovery Operations in
a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Environment for other
information on USN and USMC operational decontamination procedures. 3. See
Chapters VIII and IX for additional information on aviation and shipboard
decontamination, respectively.
4. Aircrew CBRN IPE/advanced
logistics support site (ALSS) configurations for the operational
decontamination technique do not allow MOPP gear exchange. See NAVAIR
00-80T-121 for procedures to doff contaminated aircrew CBRN IPE and ALSS.
5. See Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 32-4005, AFMAN
32-4017, AFMAN 10-2602, and USAF Technical Order (TO) 11C15-1-3 for TTP on USAF
main operating base (MOB), colocated operating base (COB), and bare operating
base operational decontamination. 6. See Chapter VII for further information on
fixed-site, port, and airfield decontamination.
2. Planning
Operational decontamination requires a
well-thought-out plan to be successful.
The advantages and disadvantages of operational decontamination techniques are
listed in Table IV-1, page IV-2. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-1
Table
IV-1. Advantages and Disadvantages of Operational Decontamination Techniques Decentralized Control
(Company-Size) Centralized Control (Battalion-Size) Centralized Control
(Brigade-Size) Advantages Flexibility Dispersion C2 Flexibility Dispersion
Planning Sustained operations C2 Synchronized support assets Rehearsal Time
required Planning Sustained operations Disadvantages C2 Synchronized support
assets Rehearsal Time required Planning Sustained operations Synchronized
support assets Rehearsal Time required Flexibility Dispersion
a. Decentralized control of a
company-size element undergoing decontamination is provided by the contaminated
unit’s commander. The advantages of this method are that it is flexible and it
conforms to the METT-TC conditions. It also disperses the units over a large
area, making them less vulnerable to attack by the enemy. The disadvantages
arethat C2 is more difficult, it is difficult to synchronize the support assets
to one location, it may require rehearsal time, it takes more time overall,
planning assets are not available at that level, and the company cannot sustain
operations without additional support from higher HQ.
b. Centralized control of a
battalion-size unit is similar to the above except that the unit CBRN NCO
controls the decontamination. The unit commander and the CBRN NCO direct the
site setup and provide security and C2 for the selected site. The CBRN NCO
travels with the decontamination element and communicates via the radio.
c. Centralized control for a brigade-size unit
is done when decontamination assets within the brigade have been consolidated.
In this technique, the brigade CBRN NCO performs those functions described for
the battalion CBRN NCO.
3. Phases The three phases for an operational decontamination
are preparation, execution, and site clearance (see Table IV-2). Table IV-2. Operational
Decontamination Phases Area
Actions Preparation Decontamination assessment Identify the personnel and
equipment to be decontaminated. Coordination Request decontamination support.
The CBRNE section conducts coordination with the contaminated unit on the
linkup point. Decontamination operations should be done between 1 and 6 hours
after becoming contaminated. IV-2 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4
April 2006
Table
IV-2. Operational Decontamination Phases (Continued) Area Actions Preparation
Site selection (selected by the controlling HQ) Ensure that the site is off the
main route but has easy access. Ensure that the site has a large enough area
(120 square yards per site for a squad-size element). Ensure that the site has
good overhead concealment. Ensure that the site has food and water sources
(plan for 100 gallons of water per vehicle). Ensure that the site has good
drainage. Linkup Ensure that the NCOIC knows where to link up with the
contaminated unit and knows the location for site setup. Radio communication is
essential for the operations. Site setup Ensure that the decontamination
element is positioned properly and ready to dispense hot, soapy water. Ensure
that the contaminated unit sets up and operates the MOPP gear exchange at the
same time as the vehicle wash down. Consider contamination runoff when
positioning the decontamination element. Execution Site control Ensure that the
drivers of the contaminated vehicles know when to move into position at the
wash-down location. Ensure that the contaminated unit has provided site
security. Vehicle spray down Ensure that the decontamination site NCOIC is
processing vehicles at a rate of 2 to 3 minutes per vehicle. MOPP gear exchange
(buddy team) Ensure that personnel are going through the MOPP gear exchange at
the rate of 60 minutes per squad/crew. Site Clearance Cleanup Ensure that the
MOPP gear exchange area is cleaned up (NCOIC). Marking Ensure that the team
properly marks the decontamination site (NCOIC). Reporting Send the NBC5 report
forward (NCOIC).
a. Preparation.
(1) The preparation phase
starts with the decision to conduct an operational decontamination and ends
with a site that is set up and ready for operation. The ICAM/CAM is used to
identify which vehicles need decontaminating, and decontamination support is
requested.
(2) Coordination with higher HQ includes
identifying the linkup point and the unit that will provide the decontamination
support. SOI are exchanged, and the technique(decentralized company-size
control, centralized battalion size control, or centralized brigade-size
control) is selected. The number and type of vehicles and the number of
personnel for a MOPP gear exchange are provided.
(3) Site selection is done by
the controlling HQ. The site may have been designated in the OPORD or selected
based on the current METT-TC.
(4) Linkup at the designated
point includes establishing security, positioning necessary marshalling areas,
camouflaging removal points, designating the direction of flow into and out of
the site, and ensuring that unit supply has sufficient replacement MOPP gear. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-3
(5) Site setup requires the
decontamination crew to position itself upwind from the entrance, set up the
MOPP gear exchange about 164 feet upwind from the vehicle wash down at a 45°
angle, and notify the contaminated unit when the site is ready.
b. Execution.
(1) The execution phase starts with
establishing positive control over the site and ends with processing the last
contaminated vehicle and person through the site. Vehicles move from the
predecontamination area to the site upon order or by watching the vehicle
ahead. The assistant driver leaves the vehicle and proceeds to the MOPP gear
exchange point. The contaminated unit provides security. Throughout the
execution phase, periodic wind checks should be performed to ensure that the
wind has not shifted and placed the soldiers conducting the MOPP gear exchange
in a CBRN hazard.
(2) Each vehicle receives a 2- to 4-minute
wash down with hot, soapy water and moves to a point near the MOPP gear
exchange area. Vehicles can be washed with cold, soapy water or only cold water
when hot, soapy water is not available. Any remaining personnel requiring a
MOPP gear exchange will get one then. When the squad or crew ha sfinished,
personnel remount the vehicles and move into an after-decontamination AA to
await further instructions or move to their next battle position.
(3) Vehicle Wash Down. (a) A
vehicle wash down may be conducted with or without standard decontamination
equipment in a one- or two-lane configuration. An unsupported washdown requires
the contaminated unit to use its assigned decontamination apparatuses or other
alternate washing equipment that can produce 60 to 120 pounds per square inch
(psi) of water pressure. The capacity to heat water and inject soap increases
the effectiveness. A supported wash down requires decontamination equipment
assets that are organic to the unit or from a supporting decontamination unit.
A two-lane wash down is simply two one-lane wash downs parallel to each other
(see Figure IV-1). Figure
IV-1. Two-Lane Wash Down IV-4
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
(b) Other configurations are
limited only by the constraints of the METT-TC. Figure IV-2 illustrates a dispersed
operational decontamination setup. Table IV-3, page IV-6, describes the vehicle
wash-down process.
c. Site Clearance.
The site clearance phase includes cleanup,
marking, and reporting. METT-TC will dictate the cleanup requirements.
Contaminated waste is collected from the operational decontamination. See
Appendix K for information on site clearance procedures.
Table
IV-4. Steps for the Buddy Team Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the JSLIST
Chemical-Protective Ensemble Required Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment
Required Procedures
1.
Decontaminate gear (removes gross contamination from individual gear [weapon,
helmet, load-bearing equipment, and mask carrier]). All Four long-handled
brushes A large piece of plastic (poncho or similar material) STB (bulk) Shovel
The individual mixes three parts earth to two parts STB. CB One 30-gallon
container STB dry mix One IEDK The individual removes and discards the
chemical-protective helmet cover. He brushes or rubs STB onto his individual
gear (helmet and mask carrier) and the hose of the M42 or M43 mask if worn. He
gently shakes off any excess STB and sets aside his gear on an uncontaminated
surface. Radiological Hot, soapy water The individual brushes or wipes
radiological contamination from his individual gear. He washes it with hot,
soapy water (if available) and then sets it aside to dry on an uncontaminated
surface (plastic, poncho, or similar material).
2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates later removal of overgarment trousers and
overboots). All Cutting tool Buddy 1 removes the M9 paper from Buddy 2’s
overgarment. He unties the bow in Buddy 2’s coat retention cord if tied. He
unfastens the webbing-strip snap at the bottom front of Buddy 2’s coat and
releases the coat retention-cord loop at the waist. Buddy 1 then loosens the
bottom of the coat by pulling the material away from Buddy 2’s body. NOTES: 1.
If wearing the M43 protective mask, tie the microphone cord to the hose of the
mask. 2. The M40 voice amplifier (M7) and the M42 detachable microphone cannot
be decontaminated and will be disposed of as contaminated waste; however,
ensure that these items are contaminated before disposing of them. Buddy 1
unfastens and loosely refastens the hook-and-pile fasteners at Buddy 2’s wrists
and ankles. He unfastens or cuts the fasteners on Buddy 2’s overboots. NOTE: A
person can do this step by himself or with the help of his buddy. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-7
Table
IV-4. Steps for the Buddy Team Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the
JSLISTChemical-Protective Ensemble (Continued)
Required
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
3. Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross
contamination). CB Two IEDKs per person Buddy 1 instructs Buddy 2 to
decontaminate his own gloves using an IEDK. Buddy 1 instructs Buddy 2 to place
two fingers (thumb and forefinger) on his own voicemitter to ensure the
mask-to-face integrity. Buddy 1 uses and IEDK to wipe Buddy 2’s eye lens
outserts from the top, down NOTE: Do not press so hard that you break Buddy 2's
face mask seal. If wearing the JSLIST hood, stop here and move on to Step 4. If
wearing the one-piece hood or the quick-doff hood, Buddy 1 wipes the rest of
Buddy 2’s hood from the top of the head to the bottom of the hood. After he has
finished wiping Buddy 2’s mask and hood, he must wipe his own gloves in
preparation for rolling Buddy 2’s hood. He starts from the rear and rolls Buddy
2’s hood, using 2-inch tucks, until it reaches the center of his head. He rolls
the front of Buddy 2’s hood tightly under the outlet valve and filter. He
ensures that the hood is off Buddy 2’s garment. Radiological Three containers
(about 3-gallon capacity) Two sponges Soapy water Rinse water Paper towels or
similar drying material Buddy 1 wipes Buddy 2’s mask and hood (if wearing the
one-piece or quick-doff hood) with a sponge dipped in hot, soapy water and
rinses them with a sponge dipped in clean water. He dries Buddy 2’s mask and
hood with paper towels or rags. Buddy 2 wipes his own gloves.
NOTE:
Cool, soapy water is not as effective for removing contamination, but it can be
used if you scrub longer. If the water supply is limited, use drinking water
from a canteen and a wet sponge or cloth. If water is not available, brush off
the radioactive dust particles.
4. Remove chemical-protective coat (limits the
spread of agents and helps prevent agents from penetrating through to the
undergarments or the skin). All Two discard containers (e.g., plastic bags)
Buddy 2 locates the suspender snap couplers on the outside of his coat and
releases them. If Buddy 2 is wearing the JSLIST hood, then Buddy 1 unties Buddy
2’s draw cord, presses the barrel lock release, and unsnaps the barrel lock.
NOTE: If Buddy 1 has difficulty grasping the barrel lock, he should use the
draw cord to pull the barrel lock away from the mask. This will allow him to
grasp and unfasten the barrel lock without touching the interior of the hood.
Buddy 1 unfastens Buddy 2’s front closure flap and pulls the slide fastener
down from the chin to the bottom of the coat. Buddy 1 instructs Buddy 2 to turn
around. Buddy 1 grasps Buddy 2’s hood, rolls it inside out, and pulls it off
Buddy 2’s head. Buddy 1 grasps Buddy 2’s coat at the shoulders, instructs him
to make a fist to prevent the chemical-protective gloves from coming off, and
pulls the coat down and away from him, ensuring that the black part of the coat
is not touched. NOTE: If there is difficulty removing the coat in this manner,
Buddy 2 should pull one arm out at a time. Buddy 1 lays the coat on the ground,
black side up. NOTE: Buddy 2 will use the coat later as an uncontaminated
surface to stand on when putting on his new overgarment. IV-8 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-4. Steps for the Buddy Team Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the
JSLISTChemical-Protective Ensemble (Continued)
Required
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
5. Remove chemical-protective trousers. All
Two discard containers (from step 4) Buddy 1 unfastens Buddy 2’s hook-and-pile
fastener at the waistband, unfastens the two front closure snaps, and opens the
fly slide fastener on the front of the trousers. Buddy 1 grasps Buddy 2’s
trousers at the hips and pulls them down to his knees. Buddy 1 instructs Buddy
2 to lift one leg (with the foot pointed down and bent slightly at the knee for
stability). Buddy 1 grasps the trouser leg near Buddy 2’s elevated foot with a
hand on each side and pulls the trouser leg in an alternating motion until
Buddy 2 can step out of it. Repeat the process for the other leg. Buddy 1
discards the trousers. CAUTION Care must be taken to avoid contaminating Buddy
2’s clothing or skin.
6. Remove chemical-protective overboots. All
Two discard containers (from step 4) Buddy 1 Instructs Buddy 2 to loosen his
overboots by alternately stepping on each heel and pulling up on his foot.
Buddy 1 pulls off Buddy 2’s overboots (one overboot at a time), and Buddy 2
steps directly onto the coat spread on the ground as each foot is withdrawn
from the overboot. NOTE: Buddy 2 may put his hand on Buddy 1 for balance but
must then decontaminate his gloves. Buddy 1 discards the overboots.
7.
Remove chemical-protective gloves and liners. All Two discard containers (from
step 4) Buddy 2 holds the fingertips of his gloves and partially slides his
hand out. When the fingers of both hands are free, he holds his arms away from
his body and lets the gloves drop off, away from the black side of the coat.
Buddy 2 removes the glove liners. Buddy 1 discards the chemical-protective
gloves and liners. NOTE: If Buddy 2 has difficulty removing the gloves, then
Buddy 1 can assist. CAUTION Buddy 1 and Buddy 2 must take care to avoid letting
their gloves come in contact with the coat spread on the ground.
8.
Put on chemical-protective trousers. All One JSLIST chemical-protective
ensemble per person Buddy 1 opens the package containing the new trousers
without touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 removes the trousers. While
standing on an uncontaminated surface, Buddy 2 puts on his trousers, closes the
slide fastener, and fastens the two fly opening snaps. He pulls his suspenders
over his shoulders and fastens the snap couplers. He adjusts the length of the
suspenders to ensure a comfortable fit. He adjusts the hook-and-pile fastener
at the waistband for a snug fit. CAUTION Buddy 2 must take care to ensure that
the trousers touch only the uncontaminated surface. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-9
Table
IV-4. Steps for the Buddy Team Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the
JSLISTChemical-Protective Ensemble (Continued) Required Steps Contamination Type
Required Equipment Required Procedures
9. Put on chemical-protective coat. All One
JSLIST chemical-protective ensemble per person Buddy 1 opens the package
containing the new coat without touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2
removes the coat without touching the outside of the package. He puts on the
coat, pulls the slide fastener up as far as his chest, and secures the front
closure hook-and-pile fastener on the front flap up as far as his chest. He
pulls the bottom of the coat down over his trousers. He grasps the loop on the
back of the overgarment, pulls the loop away from the coat, and brings the loop
forward between his legs, pulling on it so that the bottom of the coat fits
snugly over the trousers. He places the loop over the webbing-strip snap and
fastens it. He adjusts the coat retention cord if necessary and ties the excess
cord in a bow.
10.
Put on chemical-protective overboots. All One set of chemical- protective
overboots per person Buddy 1 opens the package containing the new overboots
without touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 removes the overboots
without touching the outside of the package. He puts the overboots on over his
combat boots and secures the fasteners. He pulls his trouser legs over the
overboots and secures the two hook-and-pile fasteners on each ankle so that
they fit snugly around the overboots.
11.
Put on chemical-protective hood. All One JSLIST chemical- protective ensemble
per person Buddy 2 puts the hood on his head. He completely closes the front
slide fastener on the coat and secures the hook-and-pile fastener on the front
flap as far as the top of the slide fastener. He places the edge of the hood
around the edge of the mask and secures the hook-and-pile fastener on the hood.
He pulls the draw cord tight around the edge of the mask, snaps the ends of the
barrel lock together, squeezes both ends of the barrel lock while pulling the
draw cord, and slides the barrel lock up under his chin to keep the cord in
place. Without touching Buddy 2, Buddy 1 inspects the hood and mask to ensure
that the hood is positioned properly and the skin is not exposed. Buddy 2
adjusts the hood and mask as directed. If Buddy 1’s assistance is required for
proper adjustment, Buddy 2 will decontaminate Buddy 1’s gloves before he
touches the hood or mask. WARNING The barrel lock release button must face away
from the rear of the user when worn to avoid the barrel lock from unfastening
and possibly exposing the user to contamination. IV-10 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-4. Steps for the Buddy Team Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the
JSLISTChemical-Protective Ensemble (Continued) Required Steps Contamination Type
Required Equipment Required Procedures 12. Put on chemical-protective gloves
and liners. All One set of chemical- protective gloves with liners per person
(correct size) M9 detector paper Buddy 1 opens the package containing the new
chemical-protective gloves and liners without touching the inside of the
package. Buddy 2 removes the gloves and liners without touching the outside of
the package. He puts on the gloves and liners, pulls the cuffs of the coat over
the chemical-protective gloves, and fastens the hook-and-pile fasteners on each
sleeve of the coat. He puts the M9 detector paper on as required by the SOP.
13. Reverse roles. All One JSLIST chemical-
protective ensemble per person One set of chemical- protective gloves with
liners per person (correct size) Buddy 1 and Buddy 2 reverse roles and repeat
steps 2 through 13. 14. Secure gear. All One chemical- protective helmet cover
per person Buddy 1 places the new chemical-protective helmet cover on the PASGT
helmet if used. He uses the buddy system to check the fit of all secured gear. Table IV-5. Steps for
the BDO MOPP Gear Exchange Required Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment
Required Procedures 1. Decontaminate gear (removes gross contamination from
individual gear [weapons, helmet, load-bearing equipment, and mask carrier]).
All Four long-handled brushes A large piece of plastic (poncho or similar
material) Shovels The individual mixes three parts earth to two parts STB. CB
One 30-gallon container STB dry mix One IEDK The individual removes and
discards the chemical-protective helmet cover if worn. He brushes or rubs STB
onto his individual gear (helmet and mask carrier) and the hose of the M42 or
M43 mask if worn. He gently shakes off any excess STB and sets aside his gear
on an uncontaminated surface. Radiological Hot, soapy water The individual
brushes or wipes radiological contamination from his individual gear. He washes
it with hot, soapy water (if available) and then sets it aside to dry on an
uncontaminated surface (plastic, poncho, or similar material). 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-11
Table
IV-5 Steps for the BDO MOPP Gear Exchange (Continued) Required Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates later removal of BDO trousers and
overboots). All Cutting tool Buddy 1 unfastens the shoulder straps on Buddy 2’s
hood, pulls them over his shoulder, and reattaches them to the hook-and-pile
fasteners. He loosens the draw cord on Buddy 2’s hood. The M40 voice amplifier
(M7) and the M42A2 detachable microphone cannot be decontaminated and will be
disposed of as contaminated waste; however, ensure that these items are
contaminated before disposing of them. Buddy 1 removes the M9 detector paper
from Buddy 2’s overgarment. He unties Buddy 2’s draw cords on the trouser legs.
He unzips Buddy 2’s trouser legs and rolls a cuff in each trouser leg, ensuring
that the cuffs do not come above the tops of his overboots (see Figure IV-3).
He unfastens or cuts the fasteners on Buddy 2’s overboots. When wearing
overboots, he unsnaps both quick releases on Buddy 2’s overboots. NOTE: An
individual can do this step by himself or with the help of his buddy. Figure IV-3. Rolling
the Cuff in the Trouser IV-12
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-5. Steps for the BDO MOPP Gear Exchange (Continued)
Required
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
3.
Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross contamination). CB Two IEDKs per
person Buddy 1 uses an IEDK to wipe Buddy 2’s eye lens outserts from the top,
down. NOTE: Do not press so hard that you break Buddy 2’s face mask seal. Buddy
1 then wipes the rest of Buddy 2’s hood from the top of the head to the bottom
of the hood (see Figure IV-4). After he has finished wiping Buddy 2’s mask, he
must wipe his own gloves in preparation for rolling Buddy 2’s hood. He starts
at the rear and rolls Buddy 2’s hood, using 2-inch tucks, until it reaches the
center of his head (see Figure IV-5, page IV-14). He rolls the front of Buddy
2’s hood tightly under the outlet valve and filter. He ensures that the hood is
off of Buddy 2’s BDO. CAUTION Place two fingers on the voicemitter to prevent
the mask seal from breaking. Radiological Two containers (about 4-gallon
capacity) Two sponges Soapy water Rinse water Paper towels or similar drying
material Buddy 1 wipes Buddy 2’s mask and hood with a sponge dipped in hot,
soapy water and rinses them with a sponge dipped in clean water. He dries Buddy
2’s mask and hood with paper towels or rags. Buddy 2 wipes his own gloves.
NOTES: 1. Cool, soapy water is not as effective for removing contamination, but
it can be used if you scrub longer. If the water supply is limited, use
drinking water from a canteen and wet a sponge or cloth. If water is not
available, brush off the radioactive dust particles. 2. Do not reverse roles.
Only Buddy 2’s hood will be decontaminated and rolled at this time. Figure IV-4. Wiping
From the Head to the Bottom of the Hood 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-13
Figure
IV-5. Rolling the Hood to the Center of the Head Table IV-5. Steps for the BDO
MOPP Gear Exchange (Continued)
Required
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
4. Remove BDO and overboots (limits the spread
of agents and helps prevent agents from penetrating through to the
undergarments or the skin). All Two discard containers (e.g., plastic bags)
Buddy 1 grasps Buddy 2’s BDO jacket, unsnaps the snaps individually (see Figure
IV-6), and unties the draw cord at the bottom of the jacket. He unfastens the
hook-and-pile fasteners at the wrist of Buddy 2’s jacket and then refastens
them. He unfastens the hook-and-pile fastener over the zippered front of Buddy
2’s jacket and unzips the jacket. He grasps Buddy 2’s jacket at the shoulders
and instructs him to make a fist. He then pulls Buddy 2’s jacket down and away
from him, ensuring that the black part of the jacket is not touched (see Figure
IV-7). He lays Buddy 2’s BDO jacket on the ground, black side up (it will be
used to stand on later). He carefully unfastens and unzips Buddy 2’s trousers.
NOTE:
Do not loosen Buddy 2’s waist tabs. He instructs Buddy 2 to loosen his
overboots by alternately stepping on each heel and pulling up on his foot (see
Figure IV-8). He grasps Buddy 2’s trousers and pulls them down to his knees. He
instructs Buddy 2 to walk out of his trousers and overboots simultaneously and
step onto the black side of the jacket (see Figure IV-9, page IV-16). Buddy 2
should step onto the jacket wearing his mask, BDU, combat boots, and gloves
Figure
IV-9. Stepping on the Black Lining of the Jacket Table IV-5. Steps for the BDO
MOPP Gear Exchange (Continued)
Required Steps Contamination Type Required
Equipment Required Procedures 5. Remove gloves. All Two discard containers
(from step
4)
The individual holds the fingertips of his gloves and partially slides his hand
out. When the fingers of both hands are free, he holds his arms away from his
body and lets the gloves drop (see Figure IV-10).
6.
Put on BDO. All One set of CPOs per person Buddy 1 opens the package containing
the new BDO without touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 pulls out the
BDO without touching the outside of the package. He puts on the BDO and fastens
it, leaving the trouser legs open (see Figure IV-11). NOTE: Do not reverse
roles. Only Buddy 2 will put on the clean overgarment at this time
Table
IV-5. Steps for the BDO MOPP Gear Exchange (Continued)
Required Steps Contamination Type Required
Equipment Required Procedures
9. Secure gear. All One chemical- protective
helmet cover per person Each individual secures his individual gear and puts it
back on. He puts on a new chemical-protective helmet cover and moves to the
area of assembly. He uses the Buddy system to check the fit of all secured
gear. Figure
IV-12. Putting on M9 Detector Paper Table IV-6. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU
(Buddy Team Method) MOPP Gear Exchange Required Steps Contamination Type Required
Equipment Required Procedures 1. Decontaminate gear (removes gross
contamination from individual gear [weapons, helmet, load-bearing equipment,
and mask carrier]). All Four long-handled brushes A large piece of plastic
(poncho or similar material) STB (bulk) Shovel The individual mixes three parts
earth to two parts STB. CB One 30-gallon container STB dry mix One IEDK The
individual removes and discards the chemical-protective helmet cover. He
brushes or rubs the STB onto his individual gear (helmet and mask carrier) and
the hose of the M42 or M43 mask if worn. He gently shakes off any excess STB
and sets aside his gear on an uncontaminated surface. Radiological Hot, soapy
water The individual brushes or wipes radiological contamination from his
individual gear. He washes it with hot, soapy water (if available) and then sets
it aside to dry on an uncontaminated surface (plastic, poncho, or similar
material). IV-18
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-6. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU (Buddy Team Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued)
Required
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates MOPP gear removal). All Cutting tool
Buddy 1 unfastens the shoulder straps on Buddy 2’s hood, pulls them over his
shoulder, and reattaches them to the hook-and-pile fastener. He loosens the
draw cord on Buddy 2’s hood. He removes the M9 detector paper from Buddy 2’s
CVCUS. He unzips the ankles on both legs of Buddy 2’s CVCUS. He unfastens or
cuts the fasteners on Buddy 2’s overboots. NOTE: A person can do this step by
himself or with the help of his buddy.
3.
Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross contamination). CB Two IEDKs per
person Buddy 1 instructs Buddy 2 to decontaminate his own gloves using an IEDK.
Buddy 1 instructs Buddy 2 to place two fingers (thumb and forefinger) to his
own front voicemitter to secure the mask to his face for seal integrity. Buddy
1 uses an IEDK to wipe Buddy 2’s eye lens outserts from the top, down. NOTE: Do
not press so hard that you break Buddy 2's face mask seal. He then wipes the
rest of Buddy 2’s hood from the top of the head to the bottom of the hood (see
Figure IV-4, page IV-13). After he has finished wiping Buddy 2’s mask, he must
wipe his own gloves in preparation for rolling Buddy 2’s hood. He starts from
the rear and rolls Buddy 2's hood, using 2-inch tucks, until it reaches the
center of his head (see Figure IV-5, page IV-14). He rolls the front of Buddy
2’s hood tightly under the outlet valve and filter. He ensures that the hood is
off of Buddy 2’s garment. Radiological Three containers (about 4-gallon
capacity) Two sponges Soapy water Rinse water Paper towels or similar drying
material Buddy 1 wipes Buddy 2’s mask and hood with a sponge dipped in hot,
soapy water and rinses them with a sponge dipped in clean water. He dries Buddy
2’s mask and hood with paper towels or rags. Buddy 2 wipes his own gloves.
NOTE: Cool, soapy water is not as effective for removing contamination, but it
can be used if scrubbed longer. If the water supply is limited, use drinking
water from a canteen and wet a sponge or cloth. If water is not available,
brush off the radioactive dust particles. Only Buddy 2’s mask and hood will be
decontaminated and rolled at this time. 4. Remove CVCUS and overboots (limits
the spread of contamination). All Two discard containers (e.g., plastic bags)
Buddy 1 opens all the zippers on Buddy 2’s CVCUS in the following order: wrist,
ankles, and front. While standing behind Buddy 2, Buddy 1 grasps the shoulders
of Buddy 2’s CVCUS and instructs him to make a fist to ensure that his gloves
do not come off. He then pulls Buddy 2’s CVCUS down below his knees, turning it
inside out. Buddy 1 unzips Buddy 2’s CPU jacket and removes it by grasping it
at the shoulders, pulling it down, and turning it inside out (see Figure
IV-13). He places it along side Buddy 2 with the clean side up. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-19
Table
IV-6. Steps for the CVCUS/CPU (Buddy Team Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Required
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures 5. Remove
overboots and gloves. All Two discard containers (from step 4) Buddy 2
partially removes his overboots by alternately stepping on each heel and
pulling up on his foot. Buddy 1 grasps one leg of Buddy 2’s CVCUS and his
overboot and instructs him to remove his leg and foot simultaneously. As Buddy
2 removes each leg and foot, he steps directly onto the clean inside of the CPU
jacket (see Figure IV-14). Buddy 1 discards the overboots. Buddy 2 holds the
fingertips of his gloves and partially slides his hand out. When the fingers of
both hands are free, he holds his arm away from his body and lets the gloves
drop. Buddy 2 removes his protective glove liners. Buddy 1 discards the
chemical-protective gloves and liners. Figure IV-13. Removing the Garment and Turning
it Inside Out Figure IV-14. Removing Your Leg and Foot From the Garment IV-20 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-6. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU (Buddy Team Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued)
Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
6. Remove CPU trousers and combat boots. All
Two discard containers Buddy 2 partially removes his boots by alternately
stepping on each heel and pulling up on his foot. Buddy 2 removes his foot,
stepping directly onto the clean side of the CPU jacket. Repeat the procedure
for the other foot. Next, Buddy 1 will remove Buddy 2’s CPU trousers by pulling
down on the sides and turning them inside out. Buddy 2 is now stripped to his
underwear and mask and is ready to put on new clothing. Combat boots should
remain beside Buddy 2 on the clean area of the CPU jacket. Buddy 1 discards the
CVCUS and CPU trousers. CAUTION Use extreme caution to ensure that the outside
of the CPU does not touch the skin or underclothing of Buddy 2 or the combat
boots.
7. Put on CPU and CVCUS. All One CPU and CVCUS
per person Buddy 1 opens the package containing the new CPU without touching
the inside of the package. Buddy 2 pulls out the CPU without touching the
outside of the package. He puts on the new clothing in the following order: CPU
trousers, CPU jacket, combat boots, and CVCUS (over the CPU).
8. Put on overboots and gloves. All One set of
chemical- protective overboots per person One set of chemical-protective gloves
per person M9 detector paper Buddy 1 opens the package of clean overboots
without touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 removes the overboots
without touching the outside of the package and puts them on. Buddy 1 opens the
package of clean gloves without touching the inside. Buddy 2 removes the gloves
without touching the outside of the package and puts them on. Buddy 2 puts on
the M9 detector paper (see Figure IV-15). NOTE: The gloves and overboots will
have a light powdery coating. This is normal. It is not necessary to remove it.
It will not affect the protective qualities. Figure IV-
15.
Reapplying the M9 Detector Paper 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-21
Table
IV-6. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU (Buddy Team Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued)
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment
Required Procedures
9.
Secure hood. CB One IEDK Buddy 1 wipes his rubber gloves with an IEDK. He
unrolls Buddy 2’s hood, attaches the straps, and tightens the neck cord. Buddy
1 and Buddy 2 reverse rolls and repeat steps 2 through 9.
10.
Secure gear. All One chemical-protective helmet cover per person Each
individual secures his individual gear and puts it back on. He puts on a new
chemical-protective helmet cover and moves to the area of assembly. He uses the
buddy system to check the fit of all secured gear.
Table IV-7. Steps for the Triple Buddy Method
of MOPP Gear Exchange With the M40A1 and M42
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment
Required Procedures
1.
Decontaminate gear (removes gross contamination from individual gear [weapons,
helmet, load-bearing equipment, and mask carrier]). All Four long-handled
brushes A large piece of plastic (poncho or similar material) STB (bulk) Shovel
The individual mixes three parts earth to two parts STB. CB One 30-gallon
container STB dry mix One IEDK The individual removes and discards the
chemical-protective helmet cover if worn. He brushes or rubs STB onto his
individual gear (helmet and mask carrier) and the hose of the M42 or M43 mask
if worn. He gently shakes off any excess STB and sets aside his gear on an
uncontaminated surface. Radiological Hot, soapy water The individual brushes or
wipes radiological contamination from his individual gear. He washes it with hot,
soapy water (if available) and then sets it aside to dry on an uncontaminated
surface (plastic, poncho, or similar material). IV-22 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-7. Steps for the Triple Buddy Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the M40A1
and M42 (Continued)
Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates later removal of overgarment trousers and
overboots). All Cutting tool Buddy 3 unfastens the shoulder and waist straps of
the M42 canister carrier from Buddy 2. Once the canister and canister carrier
are removed, Buddy 3 holds or tends to the canister throughout the MOPP gear
exchange. NOTE: The canister is attached to the mask by a hose; ensure that the
hose does not become fully extended, potentially causing a break in the seal of
Buddy 2’s mask. Buddy 1 unfastens the shoulder straps on Buddy 2’s hood, pulls
them over his shoulder, and reattaches them to the hook-and-pile fastener. He
loosens the draw cord on Buddy 2’s hood and ties the microphone cord to the
hose of his mask (see Figure IV-16). He removes the M9 detector paper. He
unzips Buddy 2’s trouser legs and rolls a cuff in each, ensuring that the cuffs
do not come above the tops of his overboots. He unfastens or cuts the fasteners
on Buddy 2’s overboots. Figure
IV-16. Tying the Microphone Cord to the Hose of the Mask 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-23
Table
IV-7. Steps for the Triple Buddy Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the M40A1
and M42 (Continued)
Steps Contamination Type Required Equipment
Required Procedures
3. Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross
contamination). CB Two IEDKs per person Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister.
Buddy 1 uses an IEDK to wipe Buddy 2’s eye lens outserts from the top, down.
NOTE: Do not press so hard that Buddy 2’s face
mask seal is broken. Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1 then wipes
the rest of Buddy 2’s hood from the top of the head to the bottom of the hood
(see Figure IV-4, page IV-13). After he has finished wiping the mask, he must
wipe his own gloves in preparation for rolling Buddy 2’s hood, using 2-inch
tucks, until it reaches the center of his head (see Figure IV-5, page IV-14).
He rolls the front of the hood tightly under the outlet valve and star knob. He
ensures that the hood is off of Buddy 2’s garment. Radiological Three
containers (about 4-gallon capacity) Two sponges Soapy water Rinse water Paper
towels or similar drying material Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy
1 wipes Buddy 2’s mask and hood with a sponge dipped in hot, soapy water and
rinses them with a sponge dipped in clean water. He dries Buddy 2’s mask and
hood with paper towels or rags. Buddy 2 wipes his own gloves. NOTE: Cool, soapy
water is not as effective for removing contamination, but it can be used if you
scrub longer. If the water supply is limited, use drinking water from a canteen
and wet a sponge or cloth. Only Buddy 2’s mask and hood will be decontaminated
and rolled at this time. IV-24
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-7. Steps for the Triple Buddy Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the M40A1
and M42 (Continued)
Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
4. Remove overgarments and overboots (limits
the spread of agents and helps prevent agents from penetrating through to the
undergarments or the skin). All Two discard containers (e.g., plastic bags)
Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1 grasps Buddy 2’s outside
overgarment jacket, unsnaps the snaps individually, and unties the draw cord at
the bottom of the jacket. He unfastens the hook-and-pile fastener at the wrist
of Buddy 2’s jacket and then refastens it. He unfastens the hook-and-pile
fastener over the zippered front of Buddy 2’s jacket and unzips the jacket.
Buddy 1 grasps Buddy 2’s jacket by the shoulders and instructs him to make a
fist. He then pulls the jacket down and away from Buddy 2, ensuring that the
black part of the jacket is not touched (see Figure IV-17). He lays Buddy 2’s
overgarment jacket on the ground (it will be used to stand on later). Buddy 1
carefully unfastens and unzips Buddy 2’s trousers. NOTE: Do not loosen Buddy
2’s waist tabs. Buddy 2 breaks the seals on his overboots by alternately
stepping on each heel and pulling up on his foot. He grasps his trousers and
pulls them down to his knees. Buddy 1 instructs Buddy 2 to walk out of his
trousers and overboots, taking care not to step on the contaminated side of the
overgarment. If Buddy 2 is wearing overboots, Buddy 1 removes Buddy 2’s
trousers first and then helps him step out of his overboots onto the black side
of the jacket. Buddy 2 steps onto the jacket wearing his mask, BDU, combat
boots, and gloves.
Figure
IV-17. Removing the Outer Garment 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-25
able
IV-7.
Steps
for the Triple Buddy Method of MOPP Gear Exchange With the M40A1 and M42
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
5. Remove gloves. All Discard containers (from
step 4) Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 2 holds the fingertips of
his gloves and partially slides his hand out. When the fingers of both hands
are free, he holds his arms away from his body and lets the gloves drop.
6. Put on the overgarment. All One set of
chemical- protective overgarments per person Buddy 3 continues to hold the
canister. Buddy 1 opens the package containing the new overgarment without
touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 pulls out the overgarment without
touching the outside of the package. He puts on the overgarment and fastens it,
leaving the trouser legs open. NOTE: Do not reverse roles. Only Buddy 2 will
put on the clean overgarments at this time.
7.
Put on overboots and gloves. All One set of chemical- protective overboots per
person One set of chemical- protective gloves per person M9 detector paper
Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1 opens the package of clean
overboots without touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 removes the
overboots without touching the outside of the package, puts them on, and
fastens his trouser legs. Buddy 1 opens the package of clean gloves without
touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 removes the gloves without touching
the outside of the package and puts them on. Buddy 2 puts on the M9 detector
paper. Do not reverse roles. NOTES: 1. Only Buddy 2 will put on clean overboots
and gloves at this time. 2. The gloves and overboots will have a light powdery
coating. This is normal. It is not necessary to remove it. It will not affect
the protective qualities.
8.
Secure hood. All One IEDK Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1 wipes
his rubber gloves with an IEDK. He unrolls Buddy 2’s hood, attaches the straps,
and tightens the neck cord. He checks the clips and neck cord on Buddy 2’s
hood. Buddy 3 returns the canister to Buddy 2 and assists with securing the
canister carrier straps. Buddy 1, Buddy 2, and Buddy 3 rotate roles and repeat
steps 2 through 8. They rotate roles a third time for the final buddy.
9. Secure gear. All One chemical-protective
helmet cover per person Each individual secures his individual gear and puts it
back on. He puts on a new chemical-protective helmet cover and moves to the AA.
He uses the buddy system to check the fit of all secured gear. IV-26 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-8. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU (Triple Buddy Method) MOPP Gear Exchange With
the M40A1, M42, and M43 (Aviation and Armor) Steps Contamination Type Required
Equipment Required Procedures
1. Decontaminate gear (removes gross
contamination from individual gear [weapons, helmet, load-bearing equipment,
and mask carrier]). All Four long-handled brushes A large piece of plastic
(poncho or similar material) STB (bulk) Shovel The individual mixes three parts
earth to two parts STB. CB One 30-gallon container STB dry mix One IEDK The
individual removes and discards the chemical-protective helmet cover if worn.
He brushes or rubs STB onto his individual gear (helmet and mask carrier) and
the hose of the M43 mask if worn. He gently shakes off any excess STB and sets
aside his gear on an uncontaminated surface. Radiological Hot, soapy water The
individual brushes or wipes radiological contamination from his individual
gear. He washes it with hot, soapy water (if available) and sets it aside to
dry on an uncontaminated surface (plastic, poncho, or similar material). 2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates later removal of overgarment trousers and
overboots). All Cutting tool Buddy 3 unfastens the shoulder and waist straps of
the M42 canister carrier from Buddy
2.
Once the canister and canister carrier are removed, Buddy 3 holds or tends the
canister throughout the MOPP gear exchange. NOTE: The canister is attached to
the mask by a hose; ensure that the hose does not become fully extended,
potentially causing a break in the seal of Buddy 2’s mask. Buddy 1 unfastens
the shoulder straps on Buddy 2’s hood, pulls them over his shoulder, and
reattaches them to the hook-and-pile fastener. He loosens the draw cord on
Buddy 2’s hood and ties the microphone cord to the hose of his mask. He removes
the M9 detector paper from Buddy 2’s trouser legs and rolls a cuff in each,
ensuring that the cuffs do not come above the tops of his overboots. He
unfastens or cuts the fasteners on Buddy 2’s overboots. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-27
Table
IV-8. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU (Triple Buddy Method) MOPP Gear Exchange With
the M40A1, M42, and M43 (Aviation and Armor) (Continued)
Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
3.
Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross contamination). CB Two IEDKs per
person Buddy 1 uses an IEDK to wipe Buddy 2’s hood, mask, and canister and the
hose of the M42 or M43 mask. NOTE: Do not press so hard that Buddy 2’s face
mask seal is broken. Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. After Buddy 1
wipes Buddy 2’s mask and his own gloves, he rolls Buddy 2’s hood. He starts
from the rear and rolls Buddy 2’s hood, using 2-inch tucks, until it reaches
the center of his head (see Figure IV-5, page IV-14). He rolls the front of
Buddy 2’s hood tightly under the outlet valve and star knob. He ensures that
the hood is off of Buddy 2’s garment. Radiological Three containers (about
4-gallon capacity) Two sponges Soapy water Rinse water Paper towels or similar
drying material Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1 wipes Buddy 2's
mask and hood with a sponge dipped in hot, soapy water and rinses them with a
sponge dipped in clean water. He dries Buddy 2’s mask and hood with paper
towels or rags. Buddy 2 wipes his own gloves. NOTES: 1. Cool, soapy water is
not as effective for removing contamination, but it can be used if you scrub
longer. If the water supply is limited, use drinking water from a canteen and
wet a sponge or cloth. If water is not available, brush off the radioactive
dust particles. Do not reverse roles. 2. Only Buddy 2’s hood will be
decontaminated and rolled at this time.
4.
Remove CVCUS overboots (limits the spread of contamination). All Two discard
containers (e.g., plastic bags) Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1
opens all the zippers on Buddy 2’s CVCUS in the following order: wrist, ankles,
and front. While standing behind Buddy 2, Buddy 1 grasps the shoulders of Buddy
2's CVCUS and instructs him to make a fist to ensure that his gloves do not
come off. He then pulls Buddy 2’s CVCUS down below his knees, turning it inside
out. Buddy 1 unzips Buddy 2’s CPU jacket and removes it by grasping it at the
shoulders, pulling it down, and turning it inside out. He places it beside
Buddy 2 with the clean side up. IV-28 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-8. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU (Triple Buddy Method) MOPP Gear Exchange With
the M40A1, M42, and M43 (Aviation and Armor) (Continued)
Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
5. Remove CPU jacket and gloves. All Two
discard containers (from step 4) Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy
1 has Buddy 2 partially remove his overboots by alternately stepping on each
heel and pulling up on his foot. Buddy 1 grasps one leg of Buddy 2’s CVCUS and
his overboot and instructs him to remove his leg and foot simultaneously. As
Buddy 2 removes each leg and foot, he steps onto the clean side of the CPU
jacket. Buddy 1 discards the overboots. Buddy 2 holds the fingertips of his
gloves and partially slides his hand out. When the fingers of both hands are
free, he holds his arms away from his body and lets the gloves drop. Buddy 2
removes his protective glove liners.
6.
Remove combat boots and CPU trousers. All Two discard containers (from step 4)
Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 2 partially removes his boots by
alternately stepping on each heel and pulling up on his foot. Buddy 1 grasps
one of Buddy 2’s boots and instructs him to remove his foot. As Buddy 2 removes
his foot, he steps directly onto the clean side of the CPU jacket. He repeats
the procedure on the other foot. Next, Buddy 1 removes Buddy 2’s CPU trousers
by pulling down on the sides and turning them inside out. Buddy 2 is now
stripped to his underwear and mask and is ready to put on new clothing. Combat
boots should remain beside Buddy 2 on the clean area of the CPU jacket. Buddy 1
discards the CVCUS and CPU trousers. CAUTION Use extreme care to ensure that
the outside of the CPU does not touch the skin, underclothing, or combat boots
of Buddy 2.
7.
Put on CPU and CVCUS. All One CVCUS and CPU per person Buddy 3 continues to
hold the canister. Buddy 1 opens the package containing the new CPU without
touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 pulls out the CPU without touching
the outside of the package. He puts on the new clothing in the following order:
CPU trousers, CPU jacket, combat boots, and CVCUS (over the CPU). 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-29
Table
IV-8. Steps for the CVCUS/CPU (Triple Buddy Method) MOPP Gear Exchange With the
M40A1, M42, and M43 (Aviation and Armor) (Continued)
Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
8. Put on overboots and gloves. All One set of
chemical- protective overboots per person One set of chemical- protective
gloves per person M9 detector paper Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister.
Buddy 1 opens the package of clean overboots without touching the inside of the
package. Buddy 2 removes the overboots without touching the outside of the
package and puts them on. Buddy 1 opens the package of clean gloves without
touching the inside of the package. Buddy 2 removes the gloves without touching
the outside of the package and puts them on. Buddy 2 puts on the M9 detector
paper. NOTE: The gloves and overboots will have a light powdery coating. This
is normal. It is not necessary to remove it. It will not affect the protective
qualities.
9.
Secure hood. CB One IEDK Buddy 3 continues to hold the canister. Buddy 1 wipes
his rubber gloves with an IEDK. He unrolls Buddy 2 hood, attaches the straps,
and tightens the neck cord. He checks the snaps and neck cord on Buddy 2’s hood
to ensure that they are closed. Buddy 3 returns the canister to Buddy 2 and
assists with securing the canister carrier straps. Buddy 1, Buddy 2, and Buddy
3 rotate rolls and repeat steps 2 through 9. They rotate roles a third time for
the final buddy.
10.
Secure gear. All One chemical-protective helmet cover per person Each
individual secures his individual gear and puts it back on. He puts on a new
chemical-protective helmet cover and moves to the AA. He uses the buddy system
to check the fit of all secured gear
Table
IV-9. Steps for the JSLIST, Individual (Emergency Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
4.
Remove chemical-protective coat (limits the spread of agents and helps prevent
agents from penetrating through to the undergarments or the skin). All Two
discard containers (e.g., plastic bags) Feel for and locate the suspender snap
couplers on the outside of your coat and releases them. Untie the draw cord if
tied, press the barrel lock release, and unsnap the barrel lock. NOTE: If it is
difficult to grasp the barrel lock, use the draw cord to pull it away from the
mask, allowing you to grasp and unfasten it without touching the interior of
the hood. Unfasten the front closure flap, and pull the slide fastener from
your chin to the bottom of the coat. Grasp the hood by the outside surface near
each end of the barrel lock, lift it off your head, and reverse-roll the hood
one time while pulling the hood towards the back of your head to remove it.
Grasp the front side of the coat, and pull it back until it is off your
shoulders. Put your arms behind your back, and work your arms out of the
sleeves. NOTE: Ensure that the outside of the coat does not touch your body.
Lay the coat on the ground, black side up. NOTE: Use the coat later as an
uncontaminated surface to stand on when putting on the new overgarment. CAUTION
Take care to avoid contaminating the inside surface of the coat.
5.
Remove chemical-protective trousers and overboots. All Two discard containers
(from step 4) Unfasten the hook-and-pile fasteners at the waistband, unfasten
the two front closure snaps, and open the fly slide fastener on the front of
the trousers. Loosen the overboots by alternately stepping on each heel and
pulling up the foot. Grasp the trousers, and push them down to the knees. Walk
out of the trousers and overboots simultaneously, and step onto the black side
of the coat. CAUTION Take care to avoid contaminating the clothing and skin. IV-32 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-9. Steps for the JSLIST, Individual (Emergency Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
6.
Remove chemical-protective gloves and liners. All Two discard containers (from
step 4) Wipe around the edges of the packages containing the new items (gloves,
overgarments, and overboots) with an IEDK, and then open them. Hold the
fingertips of the gloves, and partially slide your hands out. When the fingers
of both hands are free, hold your arms away from your body and let the gloves
drop. Remove the protective glove liners and discard them. CAUTION Take care to
avoid letting the gloves come in contact with the coat spread on the ground.
7.
Put on chemical- protective trousers. All One JSLIST chemical- protective
ensemble per person Remove the trousers from the package without touching the
outside. Put them on, close the slide fastener, and fasten the two fly opening
snaps. Pull the suspenders over your shoulders, and fasten the snap couplers.
Adjust the length of the suspenders to ensure a comfortable fit. Adjust the
hook-and-pile fastener at the waistband for a snug fit.
8.
Put on chemical- protective coat. All One JSLIST chemical- protective ensemble
per person Remove the coat from the package without touching the outside. Put
on the coat, close the slide fastener up as far as the chest, and secure the
front closure hook-and-pile fastener on the front flap up as far as your chest.
Pull the bottom of the coat down over the trousers. Grasp the loop on the back
of the coat and pull it out and away from the back of the coat. Bring the loop
forward between your legs, pulling on it so that the bottom of the coat fits
snugly over the trousers. Place the loop over the webbing-strip snap on the
front of the coat, and fasten it. Adjust the retention cord, if necessary, and
tie the excessive cord in a bow. CAUTION Take care to ensure that the body and
clothing touch only the inner surface of the coat. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-33
Table
IV-9. Steps for the JSLIST, Individual (Emergency Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
9.
Put on chemical- protective overboots. All One set of chemical- protective
overboots per person Remove the overboots from the package without touching the
outside. Put the overboots on over the combat boots, adjust and secure the
fasteners, pull the trouser legs over the overboots, and secure the two
hook-and-pile fasteners on each ankle so that they fit snugly around the
overboot.
10.
Put on chemical- protective hood. All One JSLIST chemical- protective ensemble
per person Put the hood on your head, completely close the front slide fastener
on the coat, and secure the hook-and-pile fastener on the front flap as far as
the top of the slide fastener. Place the edge of the hood around the edge of
the mask, and secure the hook-and-pile fastener on the hood. Pull the draw cord
tight around the edge of the mask, snap the ends of the barrel lock together,
squeeze both ends of the barrel lock while pulling the draw cord, slide the
barrel lock up under the chin to keep the cord in place, and tie off the draw
cord if needed. CAUTION Take care to ensure that the trousers touch only the
uncontaminated surface. WARNING The barrel lock release button must face away
from the user to avoid the barrel lock from unfastening and possibly exposing
the user to contamination.
11. Put on chemical- protective gloves and
liners. All One set of chemical- protective gloves with liners per person
(correct size) Remove the gloves and liners from the package without touching
the outside. Put on the liners and gloves, pull the cuffs of the coat over the
gloves, and fasten the hook-and-pile fasteners on each sleeve of the coat. Put
on the M9 detector paper as required by the SOP.
12.
Secure gear. All contamination One chemical-protective helmet cover per person
Place the new chemical-protective helmet cover on the PASGT helmet if used.
Check the fit of all secured gear. IV-34 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-10. Steps for the Individual (Emergency Method) BDO MOPP Gear Exchange Steps Contamination Type
Required Equipment Required Procedures
1.
Decontaminate gear (removes gross contamination from individual gear [weapon,
helmet, load-bearing equipment, and mask carrier]). CB One SDK Use M8 detector
paper to determine the areas of gross contamination. Use field-expedient
absorbents (sand, dirt, or rags) to remove gross liquid contamination. Take
special care to avoid touching these areas during overgarment removal. Use an
IEDK to decontaminate individual gear. Radiological Hot, soapy water Brush or
wipe radiological contamination from the individual gear. Wash it with hot,
soapy water (if available), and then set it aside to dry on an uncontaminated
surface (plastic, poncho, or similar material).
2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates removal of overgarment trousers and
overboots). All Cutting tool Unfasten the shoulder straps on the hood, pull
them over your shoulders, and reattach them. Loosen the draw cord on the hood
of the protective mask. NOTE: If wearing the M43 protective mask, tie the
microphone cord to the hose of the mask. Remove the M9 detector paper from the
overgarment, and untie or cut the draw cords on the trouser legs of the
overgarment. Unzip the trouser legs, and roll a cuff in each trouser leg,
ensuring that the cuffs do not come above the top of the overboots. Unfasten or
cut the fasteners on the overboots. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-35
Table
IV-10. Steps for the Individual (Emergency Method) BDO MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
3. Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross
contamination from the mask and hood). CB One IEDK Wipe the eye lens outserts
on the mask from the top, down. Wipe the mask and gloves, and roll the hood.
Grasp the straps of the hood, and lift the hood off your shoulders and
partially over your head until most of the back of the head is exposed. Roll
the hood, starting at the chin, and work around the entire mask until the
rolled hood will stay up and off of your shoulders. Tuck the straps and neck cord
into the roll. Roll the hood tightly against the mask without pulling the hood
off the back of the head. Tuck the tail between the upper part of the canister
and the mask. NOTE: Tie the tail over and under the hose for the M42 mask.
Remove the applicator mitt from the package with your nondominant hand. Making
a V, wipe down the dominant hand, paying particular attention to areas between
your fingers. Once the dominant hand is thoroughly wiped down, insert it into
the applicator mitt and thoroughly wipe down the nondominant hand. Gently pat
the voicemitter with black powder until it is covered. Start at the top of the
hood and wipe down and away, patting until the surface of the hood is covered
by the black powder. Rewipe the gloves, starting with the nondominant hand.
Lift the hood off your shoulders by grasping the shoulder straps in one hand
and placing the other hand on top of your head and pulling the hood over your
head until the elastic band is over the knuckles and most of the back of your
head is exposed. Do not expose your ears or pull the hood completely over your
face or mask. Tuck the shoulder straps, underarm straps, and rolled portion of
the hood under the elastic band. When using the M40A1 mask with the quick-doff
hood, remove the underarm straps from the front of the hood and place them over
your shoulders. Refasten them on the front of the hood. NOTE: Place two fingers
on the voicemitter of the mask to prevent accidental breakage of the seal.
Radiological Three containers (about 4-gallon capacity) Two sponges Soapy water
Rinse water Paper towels or similar drying material Wipe the mask and hood with
a sponge dipped in hot, soapy water and rinse them with a sponge dipped in
clean water. Dry the mask and hood with paper towels or rags. NOTE: Cool, soapy
water is not as effective for removing contamination, but it can be used if you
scrub longer. If water is not available, brush off the radioactive dust
particles. IV-36
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-10. Steps for the Individual (Emergency Method) BDO MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
4. Remove overgarment and overboots (prevents
agent from penetrating through to the undergarments or the skin). All Two
discard containers (e.g., plastic bags) Chemical-protective suit with
protective gloves and overboots Grasp the overgarment jacket, and unsnap the
snaps individually. Untie the draw cord at the bottom of the jacket. Unfasten
the hook-and-pile fastener at the waist, and then refasten it. Unfastens the
hook-and-pile fastener over the zippered front of the jacket, and unzip the
jacket. Grasp the front of the jacket and pull the jacket back until it is off
your shoulders. Put your arms behind your back, and work your arms out of the
sleeves. Do not let the outside of the jacket touch the body. When the jacket
is off, lay it on the ground with the black side up. Unfasten and unzip the
trousers. Do not loosen the waist tabs. Loosen the overboots by alternately
stepping on each heel and pulling up on the foot. Grasp the trousers, and push
them down to the knees. Walk out of the trousers and overboots simultaneously,
and step onto the black side of the jacket. Step onto the jacket wearing the
mask, BDU, combat boots, and gloves.
5. Remove gloves. All Two discard containers
(from step 4) One IEDK Wipe around the edges of the packages containing the new
items (gloves, overgarments, and overboots) with an IEDK. Open the new
packages. Hold the fingertips of the gloves, and partially slide your hands
out. When the fingers of both hands are free, hold your arms away from your
body and let the gloves drop.
6.
Put on overgarment. All One set of chemical- protective overgarments per person
One IEDK Remove the overgarment from its package without touching the outside
of the package. Put on the overgarment and fasten it, leaving the trouser legs
open until you put on the new overboots.
7.
Put on overboots and gloves. All One set of chemical-protective overboots per
person One set of chemical-protective gloves per person Remove the overboots
(one at a time) from their package without touching the outside, and put them
on. Remove the gloves from their package without touching the outside, put them
on, and fasten the trouser legs. NOTE: The gloves and overboots will have a
light powdery coating. This is normal. Do not remove it. It will not affect the
protective qualities. 8. Secure hood. All One chemical-protective helmet cover
per person Secure individual gear, and put it back on. Put on a new
chemical-protective helmet cover and move to the AA. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 IV-37
Table
IV-11. Steps for the CVCUS and CPU, Individual (Emergency Method) MOPP Gear
Exchange Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
1.
Decontaminate gear (removes gross contamination from individual gear [weapon,
helmet, load-bearing equipment, and mask carrier]). CB One SDK Use M8 detector
paper to determine the areas of gross contamination. Use field-expedient
absorbents (sand, dirt, or rags) to remove gross liquid contamination. Take
special care to avoid touching these areas during overgarment removal. Use an
IEDK to decontaminate the individual gear. Radiological Hot, soapy water Brush
or wipe radiological contamination from the individual gear. Wash it with hot,
soapy water (if available), and then set it aside to dry on an uncontaminated
surface (plastic, poncho, or similar material).
2.
Prepare to decontaminate (facilitates removal of overgarment trousers and
overboots). All Cutting tool Unfasten the shoulder straps on the hood, pull
them over the shoulders, and reattach them to the front of the hood. Loosen the
draw cord on the hood of the protective mask. NOTE: If wearing the M43
protective mask, tie the microphone cord to the hose of the mask. Remove the M9
detector paper from the overgarment, and untie or cut the draw cords on the
trouser legs of the overgarment. Unzip the trouser legs, and roll a cuff in
each trouser leg, ensuring that the cuffs do not come above the top of the
overboots. Unfasten or cut the fasteners on the overboots.
3. Decontaminate mask and hood (removes gross
contamination from the mask and hood). CB One IEDK Wipe the eye lens outserts
on the mask from the top, down. Wipe the mask and gloves, and roll the hood.
Grasp the straps of the hood, and lift the hood off your shoulders and
partially over your head until most of the back of your head is exposed. Roll
the hood, starting at the chin, and work around the entire mask until the
rolled hood will stay up and off your shoulders. Tuck the straps and neck cord
into the roll. Roll the hood tightly against the mask without pulling the hood
off the back of your head. Tuck the tail between the upper part of the canister
and the mask. NOTE: Tie the tail over and under the hose for the M42 mask. IV-38 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
IV-11. Steps for the CVCUS/CPU, Individual (Emergency Method) MOPP Gear
Exchange (Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
3.
Decontaminate mask and hood (continued) CB Remove the applicator mitt from the
package with the nondominant hand. Making a V, wipe down the dominant hand,
paying particular attention to the areas between your fingers. Once the
dominant hand is thoroughly wiped down, insert it into the applicator mitt and
thoroughly wipe down the other hand. Gently pat the voicemitter with black
powder until it has been covered. Start at the top of the hood and wipe down
and away, patting until the surface of the hood is covered by the black powder.
Rewipe the gloves, starting with the nondominant hand. Lift the hood off your
shoulders by grasping the shoulder straps in one hand and placing the other
hand on top of your head and pulling the hood over your head until the elastic
band is over your knuckles and most of the back of your head is exposed. Do not
expose your ears or pull the hood completely over your face or mask. Tuck the
shoulder straps, underarm straps, and rolled portion of the hood under the
elastic band. When using the M40A1 mask with the quick-doff hood, remove the
underarm straps from the front of the hood and place them over your shoulders.
Refasten them on the front of the hood. NOTE: Place two fingers on the
voicemitter of the mask to prevent accidental breakage of the seal.
Radiological Three containers (about 4-gallon capacity) Two sponges Soapy water
Rinse water Paper towels or similar drying material Wipe the mask and hood with
a sponge dipped in hot, soapy water, and rinse them with a sponge dipped in
clean water. Dry the mask and hood with paper towels or rags. NOTE: Cool, soapy
water is not as effective for removing contamination, but it can be used if you
scrub longer. If water is not available, brush off the radioactive dust
particles.
4.
Remove CVCUS and overboots. All Two discard containers (e.g., plastic bags)
Open all the zippers on the CVCUS in the following order: wrists, ankles, and
front. While standing adjacent to the clean area, grasp the front of the CVCUS
and pull it off your shoulders. Make a fist to ensure that the gloves do not
come off when removing the CVCUS. Put your arms behind your back, and work your
arms out of the sleeves. Loosen the overboots by alternately stepping on each
heel and pulling up on the foot. Pull the CVCUS down below the knees, turning
it inside out. Do not let the outside of the CVCUS touch your body. Walk out of
the CVCUS and overboots simultaneously, and step onto the clean area
Table
IV-11 Steps for the CVCUS/CPU, Individual (Emergency Method) MOPP Gear Exchange
(Continued) Steps
Contamination Type Required Equipment Required Procedures
5. Remove jacket and gloves. All Two discard
containers (from step 4) Wipe the gloves and around the edges of the packages
containing the new items (gloves, undergarments, and overboots) with an IEDK.
Open the new packages. Hold the fingertips of the gloves, and partially slide
your hands out. When the fingers of both hands are free, hold your arms away
from your body and let the gloves drop. Open all hook-and-pile wrist fasteners,
and unzip the CPU jacket. Remove the CPU jacket by grasping it at the shoulders
and pulling it down, turning it inside out. Place the jacket on a clean area
with the clean side up. Remove the protective glove inserts.
6. Remove combat boots and CPU pants. All Two
discard containers (from step 4) Unlace the combat boots, remove them, and step
directly onto the CPU jacket. Take off the CPU drawers by placing the hands
beneath the waistband and removing them, turning them inside out. If wearing
the BDU, stand on the clean area (but not on the CPU jacket), and unlace the
combat boots. Partially remove the boots by alternately stepping on each heel
and pulling up on your foot. Step out of each trouser leg and combat boot
simultaneously, and step directly onto the clean side of the CPU jacket.
7. Put on CPU. All One set of chemical-
protective undergarments per person Remove the undergarment from the package
without touching the outside. Put on the undergarment in the following order:
CPU trousers, CPU jacket, combat boots, and CVCUS (over the CPU trousers).
8. Put on overboots and gloves. CB One set of
chemical- protective overboots per person One set of chemical- protective
gloves per person M9 detector paper Remove the overboots from their package
without touching the outside, and put them on. Remove the gloves from their
package without touching the outside, and put them on. Put on the M9 detector
paper. NOTE: The gloves and overboots will have a light powdery coating. This
is normal. It is not necessary to remove it. It will not affect the protective
qualities
.
9. Secure hood. CB One IEDK Wipe the rubber gloves with an IEDK. Unroll the
hood, attach the straps, and tighten the neck cord. 10. Secure gear. All One
chemical- protective helmet cover per person Secure individual gear, and put it
back on. Put on a new chemical-protective helmet cover, and move to the AA. IV-40 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
2. Planning Thorough decontamination is the most effective type of
decontamination, but it is the most resource-intensive.
a. Thorough decontamination
operations are conducted beyond the range of enemy direct-fire systems. If a
contaminated unit requires a thorough decontamination as part of its
reconstitution operations, the decontamination site is established near the
reconstitution area or the parent unit rear area. Company-size units are
usuallyreconstituted in the brigade rear area while battalion-level units are
reconstituted in the division rear area.
b. All echelons prepare for thorough
decontamination operations as part of the overall planning process. The CBRN
staff can begin to develop the decontamination plan from the commander’s
general guidance. Coordination with higher HQ is required to determine the
availability of engineer support for site preparation and closure. Engineers provide
support for sumps and drainage ditches. They also coordinate with the civil
affairs office for HNS (personnel, equipment, and supplies) and for
environmental requirements and restrictions.
c. The CBRN staff selects possible lineup points
throughout the unit area of operation (AO) based on such factors as the
decontamination type, terrain, mission, threat, road network, and availability
of water. Decontamination site locations that support these lineup points are
finalized after reconnaissance of the sites by the decontamination platoon.
After the decontamination sites are selected, linkup points are chosen to
support each site. A site may have more than one linkup point.
d. Since decontamination
assets are limited, the commander must establish priorities of decontamination
support and list the units in the order they will be decontaminated. This can
change from phase to phase during an operation. The CBRN staff develops the
priority of support based on an understanding of the commander’s intent.
e. Giving the priority of support to the lead
task force during the assault phase may not be the best choice since the
contaminated elements will not stop for decontamination until after the assault
is complete. The commander should establish a priority of work that specifies
the order in which equipment will be decontaminated. (For example, a priority
of work may be in this order: engineer equipment, artillery pieces, main battle
tanks, and long-haul vehicles.) Ships with embarked amphibious and aviation
units will have to prioritize similarly, as will aviation units operating
ashore. A limiting factor is the availability of water. A typical vehicle
requires 500 gallons of water during the DED. The actual amount of water
required varies by the vehicle and its contamination level. The supported unit
CBRN staff must develop a water resupply plan for thorough decontamination
operations. f. A water resupply plan can be as simple as selecting a series of
linkup points along a route where the chemical unit can link up with a bulk
water truck. More complex water resupply plans include caching water throughout
the AO, coordinating for the movement of water bladders by aircraft, and
identifying water sources in the unit AO. The use of nonpotable, salt, and
brackish waters should be considered.
See Table V-1 for the
planning factors for the rinse station. V-2 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I)
3-2.60 4 April 2006
NOTE: Naval aircraft exposed
to salt water require emergency reclamation per Aircraft Weapons System
Cleaning and Corrosion Control, and Avionics Cleaning and Corrosion
Prevention/Control. Table
V-1. Planning Factors for the Rinse Station Equipment M12A1 PDDA Rinse M17 LDS Rinse
Gallons Applied Minutes Applied Gallons Applied Minutes Applied M1 Tank 325 12
57 14 M2 BFV 325 12 57 14 M113 APC 203 9 38 10 M109A Paladin 325 12 57 14 HEMTT
180 8 30 12 5-Ton Truck 158 7 42 11 HMMWV 90 4 23 6 NOTE: The rinse is done
with the spray wand for the M17.
3. Preparation Units prepare for thorough decontamination to be
successful.
a. Subordinate units review
their higher HQ decontamination plan. If additional decontamination sites or
assets are required, they request them from the higher HQ. The supporting
decontamination leader conducts a reconnaissance of the designated
decontamination sites. Since the decontamination sites are initially selected
by map reconnaissance, the actual site may not be suitable. If the selected
site cannot support decontamination operations, the CBRN unit leader attempts
to find another site close to the original site and notifies the supported unit
and higher HQ of the change.
b. The decontamination unit
leader determines the support requirements that areneeded to operate the
decontamination site. Engineers are required to dig sumps, improveaccess to the
site, and dig ditches for runoff. Air defense and military police are required
toprovide security. Medical support is also required. Depending on the
operational situation and the threat, some DED sites may be prepared in
advance. Routes must be established and published in the OPORD, leading the
contaminated unit to the linkup point. NOTE: Inform units not to proceed
directly to the decontamination site.
4. Execution The actual decontamination operation begins once a
contaminated unit requests decontamination support. The unit leader must assess
the situation and accurately report it to the HQ. This situation report
(SITREP) should include the type and extent of contamination, the current
location, the unit’s ability to perform the current mission while contaminated,
and the time the unit will become ineffective in combat. The contaminated unit
should perform immediate decontamination techniques to increase its
survivability and to limit the spread of contamination. An operational
decontamination should also be considered and performed, as appropriate. The
request for decontamination support must contain several essential elements of
information to assist the CBRN staff and the decontamination unit leader in
coordinating the decontamination operation. These essential elements of
information include the following:
•Designation of the contaminated unit. •Location of the contaminated unit. •Time the unit became contaminated. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-3
•Time the unit can move and begin decontamination. •Type of contamination. •Number
and type of vehicles contaminated. •Special
requirements (e.g., patient decontamination station, recovery assets, unit
decontamination team). •Supported unit’s frequency and call sign to facilitate
initial linkup.
a. The supporting decontamination unit is
given a WARNORD to conduct a decontamination operation. Subsequent WARNORDs
provide more detailed information. After requesting decontamination support,
the supported unit issues an OPORD/fragmentary order (FRAGORD) to the chemical
unit.
b. The supporting
decontamination unit must coordinate the movement of the contaminated unit to
the linkup point. If the contaminated unit is out of the supported unit AO, the
move must be coordinated with the higher HQ.
c. Once the chemical unit is set up, the
decontamination unit leader moves to the linkup point. Other elements may
provide assets to support the decontamination operations, such as medical,
engineer, air defense, and military police. These elements link up with the
chemical unit before the arrival of the contaminated unit (see Table V-2).
d. The supported unit is responsible for site
security and overall control. The decontamination leader is responsible for
operating the predecontamination area and for processing vehicles.
e. After linkup is achieved and all support
assets are in position, the actual decontamination operation begins. The
decontamination platoon leader, with help from the commander of the
contaminated unit or the supported unit C2 cell, supervises the decontamination
operation. All equipment not necessary for decontamination operations should be
located in an uncontaminated area to limit the spread of contamination.
Table
V-2. Thorough Decontamination Support Matrix (Land Forces) Tasks Division CMO
DivisionBrigade DISCOMFSBChemical Unit ContaminatedUnitBattalion Preparation
Phase Request S N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A P S Coordination S N/A S N/A N/A N/A N/A P
Site selection N/A S or P N/A N/A P N/A N/A Advance-party linkup N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A S P S Site setup N/A N/A N/A S S P N/A N/A Execution Phase Site
control/security N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A S P N/A Predecontamination actions N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A P S N/A Processing N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A P S N/A V-4 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
V-2. Thorough Decontamination Support Matrix (Land Forces) (Continued) Tasks Division CMO
DivisionBrigade DISCOMFSBChemical Unit ContaminatedUnitBattalion Site Clearance
Phase Cleanup N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A P P N/A Marking and reporting N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A P N/A N/A Legend: P=primary; S=supporting f. A thorough decontamination site consists of the following areas:
•Predecontamination staging area. •DED area. •DTD area. •Postdecontamination AA. g. There should be an
alternate route for vehicles that have been decontaminated but did not pass the
M8 paper or ICAM test. This limits the spread of contamination by not exposing
clean vehicles with vehicles that might need to be reprocessed back though the
DED. The chemical unit leader selects these areas based on operational
guidance, the road network, available cover and concealment, and the water
supply. The contaminated unit uses the predecontamination staging area to ready
itself. The postdecontamination AA isthe location where the vehicles and personnel
exiting the DED and DTD areas are linked up before moving from the
decontamination site (see Figure V-1). Figure V-1. Thorough Decontamination Site 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-5
5.
Predecontamination Staging Area The
contaminated unit moves to the predecontamination staging area about 500 meters
downwind of the thorough decontamination site. The contaminated unit
performspredecontamination actions, to include segregating vehicles by checking
for contamination. a. For chemical contamination, use the ICAM/CAM and the
M8/M9 detector paper.When monitoring vehicles for contamination, there should
be about 15 meters between each vehicle to prevent false positive readings with
the ICAM. For radiological contamination, use the AN/PDR-77, AN/VDR-2, or
ADM-300 radiac detector. b. If the vehicle only has isolated areas of
contamination, use the M100 to decontaminate those areas. Recheck for
contamination, and consider the vehicle clean if contamination is not detected.
NOTE: Do not use the M100 on sensitive items.
6. Vehicle
Crews Vehicle crews play an integral part
in the thorough decontamination process.
a. The vehicle crews, except
for the drivers, dismount. As the crews dismount, theyremove all contaminated
equipment, including sensitive items (i.e. electro-optical), from the top and
sides of the vehicles. Once the crews have exited the vehicle, they will not
reenter. This prevents contamination from being spread into the vehicle
interior.
b. Using the pioneer tools from the
contaminated vehicles, the crew removes all heavy mud and debris. They
concentrate on the undercarriage, which would be the most likely place for
contamination to collect and the hardest place to decontaminate. Once the crew
is finished with the pioneer tools, they are placed back on the vehicle. The
initial removal of the mud and debris makes it more likely that the
decontamination wash will remove any remaining contamination.
c. Seat covers (when applicable), canvas
items, camouflage netting, wooden rails, and any other material that can absorb
liquid contamination are removed. These items create a potential transfer
hazard and are not easily decontaminated. Left untreated, absorbed chemical
agents will desorb after being decontaminated and will create a vapor hazard.
The crew removes the items that cannot be decontaminated by the standard
methods used in the DTD and places them at the collection point.
Decontamination unit personnel provide advice concerning the decontamination or
disposal of these items. d. Design vehicle-loading plans to minimize the amount
of equipment carried on the outside of the vehicle that cannot be readily
decontaminated. Whenever possible, CBRN covers should be used when a chemical
attack is expected (see Multiservice Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for
Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Protection). All CBRN covers are removed and
disposed of as contaminated waste during the predecontamination actions. e.
Equipment and supplies that are exposed after removal of coverings should be
checked for contamination. If the items that can be removed are uncontaminated,
they should be moved via a clean route to the postdecontamination area.
Contaminated equipment and supplies will be decontaminated or disposed of
properly. V-6
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
7. Detailed
Equipment Decontamination and Detailed Troop Decontamination Areas
In coordination with the CBRN
unit leader operating the decontamination site, the contaminated unit begins
sending contaminated vehicles by priority for processing. Communication is
maintained between the predecontamination staging area and the CBRN unit leaders.
All assistant vehicle drivers are the first individuals sent through the DTD to
ensure that there is a driver exchange at Station 3.
See Appendix J for a series
of charts to support DED station attendants and supervisors.
a. Postdecontamination AA. The CBRN unit
leader selects the general location for the post decontamination AA. It must be
big enough to hold the entire unit and to provide the proper cover and
concealment while undergoing the thorough decontamination. The
postdecontamination AA is located about 1 kilometer (km) upwind from the DED
and DTD areas. The unit assembles in the postdecontamination AA after
completing the DTD and DED operations. The unit occupies the
postdecontamination AA until the entire unit has gone through decontamination
and will then be instructed to move to a reconstitution location or a tactical
AA to prepare for future operations.
b. Decontamination Sumps. The
construction of decontamination sumps will berequired to control the wastewater
runoff from various stations in the DED and for the disposal of expendable
supplies from the DED or DTD. The sumps should be of an appropriate size and
volume for the station that requires the sump. To prevent the spread of
contamination into the ground and to assist in the weathering process, each
sump should be lined with a sufficient amount of STB. See Appendix K for a
discussion on contaminated-waste disposal.
c. DTD. The contaminated unit
or its higher HQ is responsible for setting up, operating, manning, and closing
the DTD area at the thorough-decontamination site. The CBRN unit leader
determines the general location of the DTD within the decontamination site and
provides technical advice on setting up, operating, and closing the DTD area.
The supervisor of the DTD must establish a work/rest cycle. There are eight
stations for a DTD. Spacing between the stations is approximately 5 meters (see
Figure V-2, page V-8). A summary of personnel and equipment for a DTD is
provided in Table V-3, page V-8. Whenever possible, personnel should process
through the DTD in buddy teams. If a buddy is not available, the station
attendant will provide assistance. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-7
Figure
V-2. DTD Layout Table V-3. DTD Personnel and Equipment Recapitulation Station Personnel
Equipment and Supplies Station 1—individual-gear decontamination 1 monitor
(CAM/ICAM operator) 2 attendants 4 30-gallon containers 2 long-handled brushes
2 ponchos or plastic sheets 1 CAM/ICAM 8 books of M8 detector paper 4 M256A1
detector kits 100 plastic trash bags Sufficient STB slurry mix Rinse water
*Hot, soapy water *AN/VDR-2 *Sponge Station 2—overboots and hood
decontamination 1 attendant 1 cutting tool 1 SDK or IEDK per person Large
plastic sheet Plastic trash bags (as required) 10 drums of STB 1 shovel Station
3—overgarment removal 1 attendant 2 30-gallon containers 100 plastic trash bags
10 boxes of SDKs V-8
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
V-3. DTD Personnel and Equipment Recapitulation (Continued) Station Personnel
Equipment and Supplies Station 4—overboots and gloves removal 3 attendants 8
30-gallon containers 2 long-handled brushes M8 detector paper (as required) 1
immersion heater 100 plastic trash bags 1 CAM/ICAM Engineer tape 1 cutting tool
2 ponchos or large plastic sheets 5 percent STB/HTH solution Hot, soapy water
Cold rinse water Station 5—monitoring 1 attendant (CAM/ICAM operator) 1 trauma
specialist (or combat lifesaver) 1 CAM/ICAM First aid supplies 5 books of M8
detector papers 1 box of SDKs Station 6—mask removal 2 attendants 1 M8A1 or M22
ACAA Engineer tape Station 7—mask decontamination point 2 attendants 1 monitor
1 30-gallon container 4 3-gallon containers 1 CAM/ICAM 2 sponges 1 case of paper
towels 1 immersion heater Mask sanitizing solution Hot, soapy water Rinse water
Station 8—reissue point Unit CBRN NCO/supply sergeant Mask PLL * Denotes the
equipment needed for radiological contamination.
NOTE:
Assume that an operational decontamination was done before the thorough
decontamination
.
(1) Station 1—Individual-Gear
Decontamination. At this station, contamination is removed from individual gear
(load-bearing equipment, mask carrier, helmet, and weapon). The individual gear
is checked with the ICAM or M256 kit to ensure the completeness of the
decontamination.
(a) Preparation. At this station, the
following equipment and supplies are needed: four 30-gallon containers for each
two decontamination lanes used; two long-handled brushes for each two
decontamination lanes used; sufficient STB slurry mix for chemical
contamination; hot, soapy water and a sponge for radiological contamination;
rinse water; two ponchos or plastic sheets; and engineer tape. •Dig a sump that is 6 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 4
feet deep (minimum).Place four 30-gallon containers near the sump for easy
changing. Fill two containers with the STB slurry mix. Fill the other two
containers with clean water for rinsing, and place them about 3 feet forward of
the STB containers. Place two long-handled scrub brushes ateach container of
STB slurry. •Prepare the slurry. Mix 100 pounds of STB with 20
gallons of hot water. (The decontamination unit provides the hot water.) Change
the mixture after 20personnel have decontaminated their gear, and change the
rinse water after every 10 personnel or when it appears dirty. Dump the old
rinse water and used STB in the sump. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-9
lace a poncho or a plastic
sheet on the ground at the checkpoint.Using engineer tape, divide the poncho or
sheet in half (this is the contamination control line). Ensure that the
checkpoint is a minimum of 10 feet from the other stations in order to get a
true reading on the detection equipment. Place the following equipment at the
checkpoint for an average company-size unit: one ICAM, eight books of M8
detector paper, four M256A1 detector kits, 100 plastic trash bags, and one
AN/VDR-2 for radiological contamination. An additional CAM/ICAM may be required
in the event of saturation of the ion chamber.
(b) Execution. The
contaminated person decontaminates his gear by washing and scrubbing it for 6
minutes in the container with hot, soapy water or an STB slurry mix (see Figure
V-3). If he is wearing the M42 mask, he should use hot, soapy water and a
sponge or an STB slurry mix to decontaminate the hose and canister.
Figure
V-3. Decontaminating Individual Equipment •The
contaminated person dips his gear into
the clean-water container, rinses it for 4 minutes, hands it to the
attendant, and then proceeds to the next station. The attendant takes the gear
to the equipment checkpoint, places the decontaminated gear on the “dirty” side
of the contamination control line, and returns to the container to pick up more
gear. The monitor at the checkpoint checks the gear using the appropriate
detection device and the procedures associated with that device. If residual
contamination is detected, the attendant recycles the gear and decontaminates
it again. If the gear passes the check, the attendant places it on the clean
side of the contamination control line. The attendant carries the equipment to
the reissue point.
•The contaminated
gear may go through more extensive washing and checking procedures if time
allows. The longer the gear is washed or left out in the air after washing, the
lower the contamination level will be. The gear may be put in closed areas or V-10 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
plastic bags and checked for
hazardous vapors with the M256A1 detector kit or the CAM. The CAM only detects
the G- and V-series nerve-agent vapors and the H-series blister-agent vapors.
(c) Risk. If these procedures
are done improperly, contamination may remain on the equipment. The resulting
vapor hazard could cause casualties to unmasked personnel, particularly in
closed areas (vehicle interiors) or heavily wooded areas where air circulation
is poor.
(2) Station 2—Overboots and
Hood Decontamination. At this station, grosscontamination on overboots, trouser
legs, mask, and hood is neutralized. If ample hoodsare available at the reissue
point, the hood should be cut away.
(a) Preparation. The
following equipment and supplies are needed for the mask and the shuffle pit:
one cutting tool for each decontamination lane used, one SDK or IEDK per
person, plastic trash bags (as required), ten drums of STB, and one shovel. One
person is required to operate this station. The attendant directs and observes
the contaminated personnel as they decontaminate their overboots and hoods. •Prepare a shuffle pit by digging a shallow pit about 3
feet long, 3 feetwide, and 6 inches deep. •Fill the
shuffle pit with STB dry mix or STB slurry, depending on the availability of
water. •Prepare the STB dry mix by mixing three parts of earth
to two parts of STB. •Prepare the STB slurry as at Station 1. •Add more STB to the mix after ten people have
processed through the shuffle pit. The CBRN unit will provide ten drums of STB
for every company-size unit that goes through the station. (b) Execution. The
contaminated person walks into the shuffle pit,spreads his legs apart (double
shoulder-width), bends at the waist, and uses his hands to thoroughly rub the
STB dry mix or the STB slurry on his overboots and lower trouser legs (see
Figure V-4, page V-12). He takes special care to rub the rear of his overboots
and also removes any excess decontaminant from his gloves. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-11
Figure
V-4. Shuffle Pit Decontamination
•If a
replacement hood is available, remove the hood as follows: Buddy 1 cuts the
shoulder straps and draw cord on Buddy 2’s hood. Buddy 1 pulls Buddy 2’s hood
inside out over the front of the mask, being careful not to touch the exposed
neck or head. Buddy 1 gathers Buddy 2’s hood in one hand and, using a cutting
tool, cuts away the hood as close as possible to the eye lens outsert,
voicemitter, and inlet valve covers. Make sure that nothing is left dangling
below the bottom of the mask. •If a replacement hood is
not available, Buddy 1 decontaminates and rolls Buddy 2’s hood in the same
manner as for a MOPP gear exchange (see Chapter III). When the task is
completed, Buddy 1 and Buddy 2 reverse roles. NOTE: Personnel should check
their overboots, rubber gloves, and overgarment for damage. Any rips, tears, or
punctures in these items should be reported to the monitor at Station 5. This
allows the monitor to check personnel for chemical-agent symptoms and check
their clothing for possible contamination. •Buddy 1
decontaminates his own gloves. He loosens Buddy 2’s overgarment hood by
unfastening the barrel lock. (NOTE: If there is difficulty unfastening the
barrel lock, loosen the draw cord.) He then loosens the draw cord around the
edge of the hood and unfastens the hook-and-pile fastener at the chin. Buddy
1must take care to avoid touching Buddy 2’s skin and throat. •Buddy 1 removes Buddy 2’s overgarment hood by opening
the front closure flap and pulling the slide fastener from the chin down to the
chest. Buddy 1instructs Buddy 2 to turn around. Buddy 1 grasps the back of
Buddy 2’s hood, rolls the hood inside out (being careful not to contaminate the
inner garment), and pulls the hood off. (c) Risk. If these procedures are done
improperly, contamination can be transferred from the hood to the combat boots,
head, and neck. (3) Station
3—Overgarment Removal. V-12 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
(a) Preparation. At this
station, the contaminated overgarments are removed before the agent penetrates
the overgarment material and touches the undergarments or the skin. The
following equipment and supplies are needed: two 30-gallon containers for each
two decontamination lanes, 100 plastic trash bags (or about one per person),
and ten boxes of SDKs. One person is required to operate this station. He
directs and monitors personnel as they remove their overgarments in the same
manner as a MOPP gear exchange (see Chapter III).
(b) Execution. NOTE: The
attendant avoids touching the person’s skin or inner clothing. If contact is
made, decontaminate immediately and then proceed with the overgarment removal. •The attendant assists the contaminated person in
removing his overgarment. The contaminated person locates his trouser suspender
snap-couplers by feeling for them on the outside of his jacket and releases
them. The attendant cuts and removes the M9 detector paper from around the
person’s wrist. He unfastens the hook-and-pile fastener over the jacket zipper,
waist cord, and wrist straps on the jacket. The attendant unfastens the
front-closure flap on the front of the jacket and pulls the slide fastener from
the top of the chest down to the bottom of the jacket. He unfastens the webbing-strip
snaps at the bottom of the jacket and releases the coat retention cord. He
unfastens the back snaps and instructs the person to make a fist. Touching only
the outside surface of the jacket, the attendant loosens the bottom of the
jacket by pulling the material away from the body. He then pulls the jacket
down and away from him (see Figure V-5). Figure V-5.
Removing
the Overgarment Jacket •The attendant instructs the person to turn around,
extend his arms in front of him, and make a fist to prevent the removal of his
chemical protective gloves. The attendant grasps the jacket near the shoulders
and removes it by pulling it down and away from the body. NOTE: If there is
difficulty removing the jacket in this manner, pull one arm out at a time. •The attendant cuts and removes the M9 detector paper
from the trousers. He unfastens the hook-and-pile fasteners and zippers on the
cuffs of the trousers. He also unfastens the front waist snaps and unzips the
front zipper. He has the person lift 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-13
one leg and point that foot
down and bend slightly at the knees for stability. The attendant grasps the
cuff of the elevated foot with a hand on each side and pulls the cuff in an
alternating, jerking motion until the person can step out of the trouser leg.
The process is repeated on the other leg. NOTE: The attendant ensures that the
person steps wide enough so that he will not rub his clean leg against the
contaminated boot and overgarment.
(4) Station 4—Overboots and
Gloves Removal. At this station, contaminated overboots and gloves are removed
to limit the spread of contamination. The overboots and gloves may also be
decontaminated for reissue. (a) Preparation. At this station, the following
equipment and supplies are needed for every two lanes used: engineer tape, two
cutting tools, and 100 plastic trash bags (or about one per person). •If the overboots and gloves are not being
decontaminated, two 30-gallon containers are needed. •If the overboots and gloves are being decontaminated,
the following items are needed: eight 30-gallon
containers; two long-handled brushes; two ponchos or large plastic sheets;
one CAM; one AN/VDR-2 (for radiological contamination); four M256A1 detection
kits; one immersion heater; 100 plastic trash bags; M8 detector paper, as
required; 10 percent STB/HTH solution; hot, soapy water; and cold rinse water. •If replacement overboots and gloves are available,
establish a liquid contamination control line and set two 30-gallon containers
1 foot back from the line (see Figure V-6). Personnel should support themselves
using the containers and discard their overgarments into the containers. An
attendant directs and monitors the personnel as they remove their overboots and
gloves in the same manner as a MOPP gear exchange (see Chapter III); however,
the person steps over the control line instead of onto a jacket. Figure V-6. Station 4
Layout V-14
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
•If replacement overboots and gloves are not available,
fill two 30-gallon containers with hot, soapy water; two 30-gallon containers
with a 10 percent STB/HTH solution,
placing two scrub brushes near the containers; and then fill two 30-gallon
containers with cold rinse water. One attendant supervises and assists
thepersonnel wearing the M42 mask. The other two attendants decontaminate the
overboots and the gloves; one processes the overboots, while the other
processes the gloves. NOTE: Replace the water in all the containers once 20
items have been processed. When available, the decontamination platoon will
assist with the water requirements. •Use engineer
tape to mark the liquid-contamination control line on the ground. Place the
cutting tools, two dirty containers, and plastic bags on the dirty side of the
liquid contamination control line. The liquid contamination control line
separates the dirty and clean areas. No liquid agent should be tracked on the
ground beyond the liquid contamination control line. (b) Execution. The
attendant unfastens or cuts the elastic closures on the overboots. The
contaminated person faces the liquid contamination control line and steps back
about 12 inches. The attendant steps on the back of the overboot and instructs
him to lift his heel and work his foot out of the overboot and step across the
liquid contamination control line (see Figure V-7). Repeat the process on the
other foot. If this process cannot remove the overboot, the attendant cuts it
off and discards it in the designated container. The person holds the
fingertips of his gloves and partially slides his hands out. The attendant removes
the gloves. If the contaminated person is wearing the M42 protective mask, the
attendant from Station 6 carries the filter canister until it is removed. The
overboots and gloves are decontaminated using the following steps: Figure V-7.
Liquid
Contamination Control Line NOTES:
1. Check all items for holes,
tears, and punctures; and discard any item with a defect. Do not decontaminate
any item that is unserviceable. 2. The attendant at Station 4 performs his duty
from the dirty side of the liquid contamination control line.
•Step 1. Submerge the gloves and overboots in their
respective container of hot, soapy water. (Some of the contamination is removed
during this step.) 4
April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-15
When the overboots and gloves
are removed from the container, ensure that no water remains inside them.
•Step 2. Submerge the gloves and overboots in their
respective containers of STB/HTH solution. Thoroughly scrub the items until no
visible contamination remains. After scrubbing, submerge each item once more
before transferring it to the rinse container.
•Step 3. Thoroughly rinse the scrubbed items, making
sure that they are rinsed inside and out.
•Step 4. Place the usable items on a poncho or a
plastic sheet to air-dry and weather.
•Step 5. Place the usable items in a plastic trash bag
along with an M256A1 detector kit. If the detector kit shows that contamination
remains, the attendants can recycle the items or discard them. However, if the
kit shows no contamination, the items can be reused.
(c) Risk. If the overboots
are improperly removed, the combat boots may become contaminated and
contamination may be spread to the clean areas. If the gloves are not properly
removed, the undergarments and skin may become contaminated.
(5) Station 5—Monitoring. At
this station, contamination on personnel is identified, spot decontamination is
provided, and medical aid is provided, as required.
(a) Preparation. The
following equipment and supplies are needed for the attendant and health care provider:
first aid supplies, one CAM/ICAM, one AN/VDR-2 (for radiological
contamination), five books of M8 detector paper per 100 people, and one case of
SDKs. A health care provider should be present to treat any casualties
suffering from chemical-agent symptoms. If a health care provider is
unavailable, a combat lifesaver should be present.
(b) Execution. The attendant
checks personnel for agent vapor contamination using the CAM/ICAM (see Figure
V-8). The attendant uses M8 paper to detect liquid agents. Symptoms of agent
poisoning are the most obvious indication of skin contamination. At this
station, the trauma specialist checks each person for symptoms of agent
poisoning and treats them, as required. Personnel should report damage to their
MOPP gear that was identified at Stations 2, 3, and 4. The attendant can then
decontaminate the identified areas with the SDK. Personnel are remonitored
after decontamination. It is possible that all liquid chemical contamination is
absorbed into the clothing. If so, M8/M9 detector paper will indicate negative,
even though there is a hazard. V-16 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4
April 2006
Figure
V-8. Checking for Contamination
(c) Risk. If this station is
omitted, the contaminated personnel could become a casualty. After this
station, the personnel will not be checked for contamination or decontaminated
again. Commanders can choose to conduct a more extensive contamination check
here if medical assistance and time are available. This decreases the risk of
casualties.
(6) Station 6—Mask Removal. At this station,
the mask is removed without contaminating the person. The mask is taken to a
mask decontamination point, limiting agent transfer at the station.
(a) Preparation. The M8A1 or
M22 automatic chemical-agent detectoralarm (ACADA) and engineer tape are
needed. Two people are needed to operate this station. They remove and carry
the masks to Station 7.
(b) Execution. •If the
hood is still attached to the mask, the attendant pulls the hoodover the front
of the mask, grabs the mask by the voicemitter cover, and pulls the mask off
the person. The person holds his breath as the mask is removed. If the mask has
opticalinserts, the attendant holds the mask open so that the person can remove
the inserts without touching the outside of the mask. The person walks upwind 5
meters, crosses the vapor contamination control line, and then resumes
breathing. The attendant brings themask to Station 7. NOTE: The attendant
should show the individual the exit route before he removes his mask and closes
his eyes. •If the wind direction remains constant, no chemical
vapor hazard isexpected beyond the vapor contamination control line. Position
the M8A1 or the M22 ACADA upwind of the station to warn of vapor hazards. The
person gettingdecontaminated moves straight ahead; while his mask, which may
still give off vapors, is held on the dirty side of the vapor contamination
control line and taken to Station 7 where it is decontaminated.
(c) Risk. If the mask is removed improperly,
the person can breathe toxic vapors. There is a high probability (7) Station
7—Mask Decontamination Point. At this station, all the contamination is removed
from the mask. NOTE: Once 20 items have been processed in the wash containers,
replace the water. Once 10 items have been processed in the rinse water,
replace it. Place the contaminated waste into the sump.
(a) Preparation. •At this station, the following materials and equipment
are needed: four containers (about a 3-gallon capacity); one CAM (for chemical
only); hot, soapy water; rinse water; mask-sanitizing solution; one immersion
heater; one 30-gallon container; two sponges; and one case of paper towels per
company. •Dig a sump that is 4 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4
feet deep to discard the used filters and canisters. Place the equipment and
materials as shown in
Figure V-3, page V-8.
Three people are needed to
operate this station. Two people strip, wash, rinse, sanitize, and dry the
masks. The other person checks the masks and carries them to the reissue point.
(b) Execution. Remove the eye lens outserts
and the hood (if the hood was not cut off at Station 2). Remove and discard the
filters or canisters. Put the items into the properly marked containers. Wash
the mask, hood, eye lens outserts, and hoses onthe M42 and M43 masks in hot,
soapy water. Rinse these items in clean water, dip them into the sanitizing
solution, agitate them for 5 minutes, and then rinse them again in clean water.
Ensure that two different buckets of water are used for rinsing. Add one tube
of mask-sanitizing solution (HTH) for each quart of water. Wipe the masks with
rags until they are almost dry. Discard each container of mask-sanitizing
solution into a sump after every ten masks. Check the masks for contamination
with a CAM. If the masks are still contaminated, recycle them for more
decontamination and then decontaminate your rubber gloves. If the masks are not
contaminated, take the masks to the reissue point. Take care not to become
contaminated or to contaminate the reissue point.
(c) Risk. If these procedures are done
improperly, personnel may become contaminated when the masks are reissued at
the reissue point. Even if they are done correctly, there is still a possible
danger when many masks are stacked together. Small amounts of residual vapor
from each mask can become potentially dangerous. NOTE: Runners between Stations
7 and 8 are in MOPP2 and are prepared to go to MOPP4.
(8) Station 8—Reissue Point.
At this station, the mask and its components are provided to personnel for
reassembly and decontaminated individual equipment from Station 1 is reissued.
(a) Preparation. At this station, the
protective mask prescribed load list parts are needed. The unit CBRN NCO or
supply sergeant sets up the reissue point to provide personnel with replacement
parts for all types of protective masks and to assist in mask maintenance. If
M42 or M43 masks are used, the unit CBRN NCO must be at this station.
(b) Execution. The mask and
its components are reissued to the person who assembles it in the AA. The unit
CBRN NCO affixes canisters to the cleaned M42 and V-18 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
M43 hoses. The person picks
up their individual gear and moves to the postdecontamination AA.
(c) Risk. If these procedures
are done improperly, personnel may be inadequately equipped for future
operations. NOTE: If time is critical, the CBRN NCO will have replacement
chemical suits, overboots, and gloves at this station for reissue. If time is
available, personnel will receive this equipment at the postdecontamination AA.
d. Resupply Support Responsibilities. The supporting decontamination unit
mustsupply most of the equipment and supplies that are required to operate the
DTD. This does not relieve the supported unit of the requirement to maintain
adequate supplies to conduct DTD procedures.
(1) A decontamination unit will continue to
receive support from its parent organization. The supported unit provides the
decontamination unit with replacements, supplies, and material at the end of
the DED. This shortens the time that the decontamination unit is not
mission-capable following the DED. The supported unit must coordinate for
supplies and equipment necessary to operate the DTD. Three people are at the
station for proper operation. •One person supervises the
decontamination of the individual gear and takes the decontaminated equipment
to the checkpoint. He also prepares a new slurrymixture as necessary. •One person remains at the checkpoint and checks the
gear using the detection equipment to ensure that it is decontaminated. •One person transports the decontaminated gear to the
reissue point.
(2) Typical nondecontamination
units do not have more than two CAMs per company-size unit. However, the DTD
requires a minimum of three CAMs. The supporting HQ may need to provide
additional CAMs. The division support command (DISCOM) sustains the division
decontamination units. A decontamination unit attached to a maneuver force
identifies the resources that are needed to accomplish the mission and passes
these requirements to the maneuver staff supply officer (S-4)/component
logistics staff officer (G-4). The S-4 and G-4 then coordinate with the
supporting CSS element to fillthe requirement. The supply units that operate
the Class II points issue the protective masks and overgarments. They normally
package protective clothing as complete sets of MOPP equipment to support a predetermined
number of personnel. Decontamination supplies may be issued in preconfigured
“push” packages. e. DED. Decontamination units are responsible for setting up,
operating, and closing the DED portion of the thorough decontamination
operation. The DED for CB contamination is comprised of five stations. For
radiological contamination, the DED uses all but Station 2. Stations are
normally 50 meters apart; however, spacing is METT-TCdependent. Resupply
procedures are of critical importance. Resupply vehicles typicallyoperate
independently and need to maintain communications with the platoon HQ in the
event that the platoon relocates or needs to change linkup locations or the
mission requirements change. CAUTION Do not kneel or touch the ground while attempting
to remove contamination. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-19
(1) Station 1—Primary Wash.
(a) At this station, the gross contamination and dirt are removed from the
vehicle. Spray the vehicle for 2 to 3 minutes with hot, soapy water, and scrub
it to help remove caked-on dirt. The mechanical action of scrubbing also helps
remove thickened chemical agents. Although the undersurfaces are difficult to
reach, try to remove as much dirt as possible. After scrubbing the vehicle,
spray it again for 2 to 3 minutes to remove loosened dirt and contamination.
This station uses about 250 gallons of water per vehicle. Larger vehicles with
large quantities of dirt use more water. The runoff from this station is
contaminated and must be treated as hazardous. The contaminated runoff must be
controlled; if available, engineer support may be used to construct a sump.
This station requires high water pressure systems (M12A1 power-driven
decontamination apparatus [PDDA], M17 lightweight decontamination system [LDS],
or multipurpose decontamination system [MPDS]) rather than low water volume
systems (65-gallon-per-minute [GPM] pumps). NOTE: Use 35 cubic feet of space
per 250 gallons of liquid runoff when calculating the size for the drainage sump.
(b) The effectiveness of the wash depends on the type of wash (hot, soapy
water; hot water; cold water; or steam). The relative effectiveness rankings
for selected surfaces are listed in Table V-4. Hot, soapy water is heated from
about 120°F to 140°F to and a detergent is added to reduce surface tension. The
detergent removes the agent byemulsification, which is followed by the
mechanical displacement of the suspension. Hot water alone is less effective
than hot, soapy water. For some chemical agents, cold water exhibits better
solvent characteristics. Because of the high temperature, some agents are best
removed by steam through vaporization. See Potential Military
Chemical/Biological Agents and Compounds, for the chemical and physical
properties of CW agents. Table
V-4.
Effectiveness
of Types of Wash Agents/Surfaces
Type of Wash TGD on alkyd-painted metal Hot water and/or steam; hot or cold,
soapy water TGD on CARC-painted metal Hot, soapy water; hot water and/or steam;
cold water TGD on canvas or webbing Steam; hot water and/or hot, soapy water;
cold water THD on alkyd-painted metal Hot water and/or steam; hot, soapy water;
cold water THD on CARC-painted metal Hot, soapy water; hot water and/or steam;
cold water THD on canvas or webbing Steam; hot, soapy water; cold water; hot
water HD on alkyd-painted metal Hot, soapy water; hot water and/or steam; cold
water HD on CARC-painted metal Hot, soapy water and/or steam; cold water; hot
water HD on canvas or webbing Steam; hot water; hot, soapy water; cold water VX
on alkyd-painted metal Steam; cold water; hot water and/or hot, soapy water VX
on canvas or webbing Steam; hot water and/or hot, soapy water; cold water GD on
canvas or webbing Steam; hot, soapy water and/or hot water; cold water NOTE:
The types of wash are listed in the order of effectiveness, starting with the
most effective to the least effective. V-20 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
(2) Station 2—Decontaminant
Application
. (a) At this station, a
decontaminant is applied to the entire vehicle. The vehicle is divided into
four parts, and a member of the scrubbing team is assigned to each part. This
limits the workload of each member of the scrubbing team and avoidsduplication
of work. STB slurry, STB dry mix (if the temperature is below 0°F), or another
approved decontaminant is applied starting at the top of the vehicle and
working toward the undercarriage. Every effort is made to apply the
decontaminant to the undercarriage, especially if the vehicle has crossed a
contaminated area.
(b) Before starting the decontamination
operation, the decontamination crew prepares the slurry mix in the M12 PDDA or
by mixing 100 pounds of STB with 20gallons of hot water in 30-gallon containers.
Each member of the scrubbing team wears atoxicological agent-protective (TAP)
apron or wet-weather gear to protect him and his clothing from being saturated
with water, decontaminant, or agent. NOTE: Use 35 cubic feet of space per 250
gallons of liquid runoff when calculating the size for the drainage sump.
(c) Ensure that there is a
sufficient amount of decontaminant on the item being decontaminated for
neutralization to occur.
(3) Station 3—Contact
Time/Interior Decontamination.
(a) At this station, the
decontaminant is allowed to completely neutralize the chemical agent and the
interior of the vehicle is decontaminated. Vehicles are moved to a concealed
position. The attendant tracks the time each vehicle enters and exits this site
to ensure that at least 30 minutes has passed. When there is a 30-minute
contact time, there should be no desorption for most chemical agents. The
attendant also tracks whether any contamination is found on the inside of the
vehicle. This information may be needed for redeployment as part of the
clearance decontamination.
(b) While the vehicle is held
at this station for the decontaminant to completely react, the driver inspects
the interior of the vehicle for liquid contamination. The driver is given M8
detector paper to check for chemical contamination. If he identifies
contamination, he is given decontamination supplies to decontaminate the
interior of the vehicle. The best decontamination solution for use in the
interior of vehicles is a 5 percent solution of HTH or STB. The driver wipes
all reasonably accessible surfaces with a rag or sponge soaked in the HTH or
STB solution. He should not attempt to decontaminate areas where there is
little likelihood of contamination (electrical assemblies, the area beneath the
turret floor, etc.).
(c) Once the interior decontamination is
complete, the driver places covers over the seats and floor of the vehicle.
(This prevents the assistant driver from soaking excess decontaminant into his
MOPP gear.) The driver dismounts the vehicle and proceeds to the start of the
DTD. The assistant driver, having completed the DTD, checks with the attendant
to ensure that at least 30 minutes have passed, mounts the vehicle, and moves
it to the next station. All drivers must exercise caution when entering or
exiting the vehicle.
(d) For radiological
contamination, use an AN/PDR-77 or AN/VDR-2 radiac detector to determine the
extent and location of contamination inside the vehicle. If there is
contamination, determine the intensity of the contamination. If the
contamination 4
April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-21
is greater than 0.33
centigray (cGy), the interior of the vehicle must be decontaminated. Use a wet
sponge to wipe the interior of the vehicle.
(4) Station 4—Rinse. At this
station, the decontaminant is removed from the vehicle. Spray the vehicle with
water from the top to the bottom. Take care to rinse the undercarriage. This
station uses about 200 gallons of water per vehicle. Failure to remove all the
decontaminant from the vehicle may cause a false positive reading at Station 5.
If high water pressure systems (M12A1 PDDA, M17 LDS, or MPDS) are not
available, large-volume water pumps (65- and 125-GPM) should be used at this
station. The driver removes plastic or other material (if present) covering the
seats and floor and disposes of it as hazardous waste.
(5) Station 5—Check. At this
station, the vehicle is checked to see if it has a negligible contamination
level or if it still has significant contamination remaining. Detection
procedures will vary depending on the type of contamination. If significant
contamination is found on the vehicle, the vehicle is recycled to Station 2 for
chemical contamination or to Station 1 for radiological contamination. (See
Figure V-1, page V-5, fora suggested layout of the recycle route.) Caution must
be exercised to prevent the vehicle from contaminating clean areas. If the
vehicle cannot be recycled, the commander must decide what to do with the
vehicle; at a minimum it should be segregated from the clean troops and
vehicles for weathering to occur. Personnel operating the vehicle must remain
in elevated MOPP. If sufficient resources and time are available, the vehicle
should be placed back into a through decontamination line.
(a) Chemical (CAM
Interferents). •The ICAM/CAM is used to check for the presence of
vapor from residual liquid contamination. A one-bar or lower reading on the
ICAM/CAM indicates a negligible contamination level. Once the ICAM/CAM
indicates the presence of vapor contamination, M8 detector paper is used to
verify the presence of liquid contamination. If it is suspected that the
ICAM/CAM and M8 detector paper are producing false positive results, use an
M256A1 detector kit near the area to verify the presence of contamination. See
Table V-5 for a list of common interferents that can cause false positive
readings on the CAM. If the vehicle has significant contamination remaining,
recycle it to Station 2 for chemical contamination or to Station 1 for
radiological contamination. The commander may modify the recycle criteria based
on mission requirements. V-22
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
V-5. Common Interferents for the CAM Interferents G Agent Bar Response H Agent Bar
Response Insect repellent Low to very high N/A Brake fluid High to very high
Very high General-purpose cleaner High N/A Burning kerosene N/A High Breath
mints High N/A Gasoline vapors Low Low Burning grass Low to high Low Burning
gas Low N/A Green smoke Low Low to high Break-free oil Low N/A Ammonia Very
high N/A •
There will be desorption of
chemical agents from the surfaces afterdecontamination. The desorption of
vapors on surfaces painted with the CARC will stop sooner than it will on
surfaces painted with alkyd. Consider this when checking decontaminated items
for overall decontamination effectiveness.
(b) Radiological. Use the
AN/PDR-77, ADM-300, or AN/VDR-2 to determine if any contamination remains. If
there is contamination remaining, determine the intensity of the contamination
inside and outside the vehicle. If the contamination is greater than 0.33
centigray per hour (cGy/hr), the vehicle is then recycled to Station 1. f.
Recycle Criteria. The commander, with the CBRN unit leader’s help, establishes
the recycle criteria before starting the decontamination operations. The
recycle criteriadetermine which vehicles will return to Station 1 after
contamination is detected. If the unit has sufficient time and resources, any
vehicle having more contamination than the acceptable level should be recycled.
However, time and resources are usually limited and not all vehicles can be
recycled. The recycle criteria are based on the weathering effects. g.
Reconstitution Criteria. The operational and thorough decontaminationoperations
that are performed on vehicles or major equipment will be recorded on the
Operator’s Inspection Guide and Trouble Report (General-Purpose Vehicles). This
information will become a permanent record for these vehicles or major
equipment. The entries that are required on this form are the type of
decontamination performed, decontaminant used, date-time group (DTG) completed,
location of the decontamination site, and type of monitoring equipment used to
verify decontamination completeness. This information will assist with
reconstitution operations once the conflict or war has ended. h. DED Layouts.
(1) Decontamination units establish thorough
decontamination sites differently because of organization and equipment
differences. The optimum layout for each type unit is described in the
following paragraphs. This layout provides the maximum output for units at 100
percent personnel and equipment strength. The equipment and personnel
requirements for the optimum layout are identified for the decontamination unit
and the supported unit (augmenter) (see Table V-6, page V-24). 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-23
Table
V-6. Personnel and Equipment Requirements for the Optimum DED Layout of an
M12A1 PDDA-Equipped Unit Stations
Personnel Equipment and Supplies Decontamination platoon
Augmentees
Station 1—Primary wash 1 squad leader 1 PDDE operator 2 sprayers 4 scrubbers 1
M12A1 PDDA 1 3,000-gallon tank 2 65-/125-GPM pumps 6 long-handled brushes 4 TAP
aprons Liquid detergent 1 TPU 2 flashlights Station 2—Decontaminant application
1 squad leader 1 PDDE operator 2 sprayers 8 scrubbers 1 M12A1 PDDA 1
3,000-gallon tank 18 long-handled brushes 9 mops with extra mop heads 3
30-gallon containers Sufficient STB 4 TAP aprons 1 TPU 2 flashlights Station
3—Contact time/interior decontamination 1 NCO 2 assistants 2 AN/VDR-2s 3 TAP aprons
6 30-gallon containers 10 books of M8 detector paper 30 sponges 8 M256A1
detector kits 50 trash bags 1 clipboard 1 pen 1 stopwatch Station 4—Rinse 1
squad leader 1 PDDE operator 2 pump operators 2 sprayers 1 M12A1 PDDA 1
3,000-gallon tank 3 65-/125-GPM pumps 1 TPU 2 TAP aprons 2 flashlights Station
5—Check 2 NCOs or CAM operators None 2 CAMs 10 M256A1 detector kits 20 books of
M8 detector paper 2 AN/VDR-2s 2 M8A1 or M22 ACAAs C2 1 PL 1 PSG None 1 HMMWV
with a radio 3 NBC marking kits Total Personnel 17 16 N/A
(2) Since it is unlikely that
all units will be at 100 percent strength, alternate layouts are discussed. For
each alternate layout, decontamination unit equipment requirements are
identified. However, personnel requirements are not identified by the V-24 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
chemical unit and supported
unit. The total number of personnel that are needed is identified, with a
minimum number of decontamination unit personnel. i. Alternate-Layout Planning
Considerations. CBRN unit leaders use METT-TC to determine the best possible
DED layout to execute their mission. When determining alternate DED layouts,
they use the following guidelines:
(1) The ability to spray hot, soapy water or
steam under pressure must beretained at Station 1.
(2) The largest number of
people is required at Station 2.
(3) Experienced and qualified
ICAM/CAM operators are required at Station 5.
(4) Water does not have to be
hot to rinse off the decontaminant; however, the lower the water pressure, the
greater the amount of water required for the rinse. j. Decontamination Unit
(M12A1).
(1) The optimum DED layout for an M12A1
PDDA-equipped decontamination unit requires the use of all authorized equipment
and personnel. While this DED layout is manpower- and equipment-intensive, it
provides for the rapid decontamination of vehicles and equipment (eight
vehicles processed per hour). This layout uses dual lanes at Stations 1, 4, and
5 to process two vehicles at a time. Since the most time- and labor-intensive
work takes place at Station 3, this station is designed to process three
vehicles at a time.
(2) It may not be possible
for an M12A1 PDDA-equipped decontamination unit to use the optimum DED layout.
Limited personnel or equipment will affect the DED layout. See Table V-7 for an
alternate layout. The processing rate using this layout will be affected by
work/rest cycles (see Table V-8, page V-26). Table V-7. Personnel and Equipment
Requirements for the Alternate DED Layout of an M12A1 PDDA-Equipped Unit Stations Personnel
Equipment and Supplies Station 1—Primary wash 1 NCOIC* 1 PDDE operator* 2
sprayers 2 scrubbers 1 M12A1 PDDA 1 3,000-gallon tank 2 65-/125-GPM pumps 4
long-handled brushes 4 TAP aprons Liquid detergent 1 TPU 2 flashlights Station
2—Decontaminant application 1 NCOIC* 1 PDDE operator* 2 sprayers 8 scrubbers 1
M12A1 PDDA 1 3,000-gallon tank 12 long-handled brushes 4 mops with extra mop
heads 3 30-gallon containers Sufficient STB 1 TPU 4 TAP aprons 2 flashlights
Table
V-7. Personnel and Equipment Requirements for the Alternate DED Layout of an
M12A1 PDDA-Equipped Unit (Continued) Stations Personnel Equipment and Supplies
Station 3—Contact time/interior decontamination 1 NCO* 2 interior
decontamination assistants 2 AN/VDR-2s 3 TAP aprons 6 30-gallon containers 10
books of M8 detector paper 30 sponges 8 M256A1 detector kits 50 trash bags 1
clipboard 1 pen 1 stopwatch Station 4—Rinse 1 NCOIC* 1 PDDE operator* 2
sprayers 1 M12A1 PDDA 1 3,000-gallon tank 3 65-/125-GPM pumps 1 TPU 2 TAP
aprons 2 flashlights Station 5—Check 2 NCOs or CAM operators* 2 CAMs 10 M256A1
detector kits 20 books of M8 detector paper 2 AN/VDR-2s 2 M8A1 or M22 ACAAs C2
1 PL* 1 PSG* 1 HMMWV with a radio 3 NBC marking kits Total Personnel 29 N/A
*Denotes personnel from the decontamination unit. Table V-8. Recommended
Work/Rest Cycles for DED Temperatures
Stations and Workload Station 1 Primary Wash Station 2 Decontaminant
Application Station 3 Contact Time/Interior Decontamination Station 4 Rinse
Station 5 Check Physical Exertion Moderate Heavy Moderate Moderate Light Cool
(less than 68°F) 60 work 15 rest 30 work 30 rest 60 work 15 rest 60 work 15
rest 60 work 15 rest Warm (68°–74°F) 45 work 45 rest 20 work 20 rest 45 work 45
rest 45 work 45 rest 50 work 50 rest Hot (74°–84°F) 30 work 60 rest 15 work 30
rest 30 work 60 rest 30 work 60 rest 40 work 80 rest Very hot (greater than
84°F) 20 work 60 rest 10 work 30 rest 20 work 60 rest 20 work 60 rest 25 work
75 rest NOTE: When operating in temperatures above 75°F, consider the ability
of the personnel to accomplish the mission. Once the personnel have reached
their maximum workload for heat stress, they cannot recover quickly enough to
accomplish the decontamination mission. A viable option is to postpone the
decontamination operation until a cooler part of the day or evening. This will
reduce the heat stress load on the personnel and increase the probability of
mission success. V-26
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
k. Decontamination Platoon
(M17 LDS or MPDS).
(1) The decontamination units equipped with
the M17 LDS or MPDS will set up the DED differently than the decontamination
units equipped with the M12A1 PDDA (see Table V-9). While the optimum DED
layout is manpower- and equipment-intensive, it provides for the rapid
decontamination of vehicles and equipment (eight vehicles processed per hour).
The layout uses dual lanes at Stations 1, 4, and 5 to process two vehicles at a
time. Since the most time- and labor-intensive work takes place at Station 3,
this station is designed to process three vehicles at a time. The processing
rate of this layout will be affected by any work/rest cycles. T
able
V-9.
Personnel
and Equipment Requirements for the Optimum DED Layout of an M17 LDS-Equipped
Unit Stations
Personnel Equipment and Supplies Decontamination platoon Augmenter Station
1—Primary
wash 1 squad leader 4 sprayers 2 scrubbers 2 scrubbers 2 M17 LDSs 2
3,000-gallon tanks 2 65-/125-GPM pumps 6 long-handled brushes 8 TAP aprons
Liquid detergent 2 flashlights Station 2—Decontaminant application 1 squad
leader 3 appliers/mixers 8 appliers 2 65-/125-GPM pumps 1 3,000-gallon tank 18
long-handled brushes 9 mops with extra mop heads 6 30-gallon containers
Sufficient STB 2 flashlights Station 3—Contact time/interior decontamination 1
NCO 2 assistants None 2 AN/VDR-2s 3 TAP aprons 6 30-gallon containers 10 books
of M8 detector paper 30 sponges 8 M256A1 detector kits 50 trash bags 1
clipboard 1 pen 1 stopwatch Station 4—Rinse 1 squad leader 4 sprayers 2
sprayers 1 M12A1 PDDA 1 3,000-gallon tank 3 65-/125-GPM pumps 2 TPUs 2 TAP
aprons 2 flashlights 4
April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-27
Table
V-9. Personnel and Equipment Requirements for the Optimum DED Layout of an M17
LDS-Equipped Unit (Continued) Stations Personnel Equipment and Supplies Decontamination
platoon Augmenter Station 5—Check 2 NCOs or CAM operators None 2 CAMs 10 M256A1
detector kits 20 books of M8 detector paper 2 AN/VDR-2s 2 M8A1 or M22 ACAAs C2
1 PL 1 PSG None 1 HMMWV with a radio 3 NBC marking kits Total Personnel 23 12
N/A (2) It may not be possible for an M17
LDS- or MPDS-equipped decontamination unit to use the optimum DED layout.
Limited personnel or equipment will affect the DED layout. See Table V-10 for
an alternate layout.
Table
V-10. Personnel and Equipment Requirements for the Alternate DED Layout of an
M17 LDS-Equipped Unit Stations
Personnel Equipment and Supplies Station 1—Primary wash 1 NCOIC* 4 sprayers 4
scrubbers 2 M17 LDSs or MPDSs 1 3,000-gallon tank 2 65-/125-GPM pumps 4
long-handled brushes 8 TAP aprons Liquid detergent 2 flashlights Station
2—Decontaminant application 1 NCOIC* 8 scrubbers/mixers 2 65-/125-GPM pumps 1
3,000-gallon tank 12 long-handled brushes 8 mops with extra mop heads 3
30-gallon containers Sufficient STB 2 flashlights Station 3—Contact
time/interior decontamination 1 NCO* 2 interior decontamination assistants 2
AN/VDR-2s 3 TAP aprons 6 30-gallon containers 10 books of M8 detector paper 30
sponges 8 M256A1 detector kits 50 trash bags 1 clipboard 1 pen 1 stopwatch
Station 4—Rinse 1 NCOIC* 4 sprayers 2 M17 LDSs or MPDSs 1 3,000-gallon tank 2
65-/125-GPM pumps 4 TAP aprons 2 flashlights V-28 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
Table
V-10. Personnel and Equipment Requirements for the Alternate DED Layout of an
M17 LDS-Equipped Unit (Continued) Stations Personnel Equipment and Supplies
Station 5—Check 2 NCOs or CAM operators* 2 CAMs 10 M256A1 detector kits 20
books of M8 detector paper 2 AN/VDR-2s 2 M8A1 or M22 ACAAs C2 1 PL* 1 PSG* 1
HMMWV with a radio 3 NBC marking kits Total Personnel 30 N/A *Denotes personnel
from the decontamination unit.
l.
Thorough Decontamination Site Closure. Once all vehicles and personnel fromthe
contaminated unit have processed through the thorough decontamination site, the
site can be closed. Coordination with the supported unit is necessary before
actually closing the site to ensure that all contaminated elements have been
processed. The decontamination unit closes the DED first. Once the DED is
closed, the decontamination unit processes through the DTD. After the chemical
unit has processed through the DTD, the DTD is closed. At this point, the
decontamination unit marks the area as a contaminated area and reports its
exact location to the supported unit using an NBC5 Report.
(1) Closing the DED Area. The
DED is closed in sequence, starting at Station 1. All vehicles, equipment, and
nonexpendable supplies are inspected for contamination. If contamination is
found on an item, it is decontaminated.
(a) Station 1—Primary Wash.
Spray all vehicles and equipment with hot, soapy water to remove any
contamination that could have been transferred during the primary wash
operations. Drain the water billets or fabric tanks of water. Inspect
allequipment and vehicles for contamination using the appropriate detection
equipment.
(b) Station 2—Decontaminant
Application. Throw the mops and brushesthat were used in applying the
decontaminant into a sump or bury them. Inspect theunused decontaminant, and
load it on a vehicle.
(c) Station 3—Contact Time/Interior
Decontamination. Inspect any unused supplies and equipment for contamination.
If no contamination is detected, load the equipment and supplies on a vehicle.
Throw all contaminated supplies into the nearest sump. (d) Station 4—Rinse.
Spray all vehicles and equipment with hot, soapy water to remove any
contamination that could have been transferred during the rinse operations.
Drain the water billets or fabric tanks. Inspect all the equipment and vehicles
for contamination using the appropriate detection equipment. If no
contamination is detected, load the equipment onto the vehicles. Spread one can
of STB dry mix into each of the sumps and then cover them. Post NBC hazard
markers near the covered sumps. (e) Station 5—Check. Ensure that all equipment
has been checked for contamination. If it is not contaminated, load it onto a
vehicle. If it is contaminated, decontaminate it according to the appropriate
technical manual (TM). Throw any contaminated supplies into the nearest sump.
Move all vehicles upwind of Station 5 and inspect them again for contamination.
If any contamination is detected, use the M100 to 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 V-29
decontaminate the identified
areas. Once the vehicles are staged, all personnel proceed to the DTD.
(2) Closing the DTD Area.
Once all personnel from the DED have processed through the DTD, it may be
closed. After the last person has exited the DTD—
(a) Pick up all used supplies from Station 7,
and put them in the Station 7 sump. Remove the contamination control line. If
engineer tape was used, dispose of it in the Station 7 sump.
(b) Move all usable supplies
and equipment from all stations to Station 1. Discard all unusable supplies
from Stations 3, 4, and 5 in the Station 1 sump.
(c) Decontaminate all
supplies and equipment collected at Station 1 using the decontamination and
rinse water at Station 1. Pour the decontamination and rinse water from the
station into the sump, and decontaminate the containers.
(d) Mark the entire decontamination
area. Remove your over garment using the MOPP gear exchange technique, and
dispose of it in the sump at Station 1. (e) Move any equipment used to fill the
sump upwind of the decontamination area. Decontaminate rubber gloves, and move
all remaining equipment and supplies at Station 1 upwind of the decontamination
area. Keep this equipment and supplies separate from that used to fill the
sump. NOTE: See Appendix K for detailed procedures on the disposal of
contaminated waste.
8. Thorough Decontamination Under Unusual
Conditions
Decontamination operations
are not restricted to daylight hours. The enemy may employ CBRN weapons at
night, since weather conditions are usually more favorable for their
employment. Consequently, CBRN contamination encountered at night may require
decontamination before daylight.
a. Conducting decontamination
operations at night is a challenge. “White light”cannot be used without
possibly revealing your location. However, decontamination personnel must have
illumination to perform essential decontamination tasks such as spraying water,
applying decontaminants, using detection equipment, and doffing the MOPP gear.
b. Use M8/M9 detector paper
to check for chemical contamination and to see how well the chemical
decontamination was performed. If contamination is present, the paper color
changes to red, which cannot be seen if red-filtered light is used. The CAM and
M256A1 detector kit can be used to identify and detect chemical agents, but
they require a light source to obtain a reading.
c. Several vehicles waiting
for or undergoing decontamination present a significant infrared signature
because of the hot engines. Entering, exiting, and moving within the
decontamination site is difficult under blackout conditions. d.
Night-decontamination operations are difficult, but they can be accomplished.
Conduct thorough decontamination operations in built-up areas, whenever possible.
Use a building for DTD operations and a warehouse for DED operations, if
available. This allows the use of white light. Personnel can see what they are
decontaminating, see where they are going, and read the color changes of the
M8/M9 detector paper. V-30
FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
e. There will be a need for
additional people to act as ground guides in the DED area. The NCOICs of
Stations 1, 2, and 4 will inspect each vehicle with a flashlight or chemical
light before the vehicle can proceed to the next station. There should be at
least two flashlights at each station in the DED and DTD areas.
9. Colocation
of Patient Decontamination With Troop Decontamination
The decontamination of
patients for entry into an MTF or while they are awaiting evacuation in clean
vehicles for transport to an MTF can be established adjacent to a DTD area.
Close coordination needs to be maintained between medical personnel supervising
the patient decontamination and personnel supervising the DTD. This offers
benefits to both units. NOTE: See Chapter X and FM 4-02.7 for more information.
Chapter VI CLEARANCE
DECONTAMINATION
1. Background
a. Clearance decontamination
is the final level of decontamination. It is the most resource-intensive. It
requires command involvement, guidance, and decisions on the disposition of
possible mission-essential equipment.
b. Clearance decontamination provides the
decontamination of equipment and personnel to a level that allows unrestricted
transportation, maintenance, employment and disposal. Clearance decontamination
can be used to prepare organizations or individual units for return to their
home garrisons, whether within the United States, its territories, or
possessions. At the end of a conflict or at normal rotation during peacekeeping
or nation-building operations, a unit may be ordered to return to garrison. US
military assets may also be required to support clearance decontamination to
support HLS/HLD requirements
c. Tasks given to CBRN
defense personnel or elements supporting clearance decontamination may involve
the physical status of the unit or activity itself, or they may involve the
fulfillment of obligations under a treaty or memorandum of understanding (MOU)
to the HN. These tasks may include the following: •Recordkeeping. •Postconflict
intelligence preparation of the battlespace (IPB). •FP. •Decontamination. •Containment of residual hazards. •Recovery and control of enemy CBRN capabilities. •FHP. •Coordination with
multinational forces or nonmilitary entities. •Contaminated
material retrogradation.
c. Most of the specified and implied tasks of
CBRN defense personnel supporting clearance decontamination are simultaneous
and interdependent. For example, postconflict IPB supports FP, containment of
residual hazards, and contaminated material retrogradation. Clearance
decontamination may include supporting recovery and control of the enemy CBRN
hazards (see Figure VI-1, page VI-2). Recordkeeping supports virtually all
other tasks. Recovery operations are closely related to conflict termination. 4 April 2006 FM
3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 VI-1
Figure
VI-1. Decontamination Support e.
Clearance decontamination requires a significant level of effort. The resources
needed to conduct clearance decontamination (i.e., low-level CBRN or TIM
monitoring capabilities, decontamination units, MEDSURV, supplies, and
equipment) require coordination from the unit level through the combatant
command level.
2. Postconflict
Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace
As a conflict ends, there
remain significant IPB-related functions that may continue to require
decontamination support. a. Even when the conflict has terminated, the
continued presence of threat CBRN weapons, contaminated areas, and TIM hazards
presents volatile situations. This may be particularly true as HN and
international relief agencies enter the area. CBRN defense assets may be tasked
to support intelligence collection on enemy CBRN weapons that are assessed to
exist but which have not been captured or destroyed. In such cases,
intelligence will attempt to develop a complete picture of the enemy’s residual
CBRN assets and capabilities—including probable locations and dispositions of
weapons and agents, research and production facilities, documentation, key
enemy military and civilian personnel, and possible reaction from residual
enemy forces. b. The CBRN defense personnel may also be tasked to assess the
hazards from indigenous TIM facilities that have suffered collateral damage and
to be prepared to deal with the release of TIM from those facilities. VI-2 FM 3-11.5/MCWP
3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4 April 2006
3. Force
Protection
During
conflict termination, FP measures still deter, detect, contain, and mitigate
the possible effects of CBRN attacks and threats. Unit draw-down may invite
strikes by residual enemy forces or terrorists to punish and inflict revenge on
the United States and coalition forces. Planning for decontamination
operations, therefore, must continue. Decontamination site selection can now be
based on internal lines of communication (LOCs)rather than the axis of advance,
which facilitates logistics and transportation. Other site selection
considerations (such as road network accessibility, water sources and drainage,
and likely wind direction) still apply.
4.
Decontamination
Clearance
decontamination may be required as part of a supported unit’s restoration
operations. For example, a unit may now have time to conduct clearance
decontamination that was deferred during previous operations. Decontamination
elements may also be tasked to support the decontamination of civilian
personnel, equipment, facilities or terrain in coordination with HN
authorities. See Multiservice Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for NBC
Defense of Theater Fixed Sites, Ports, and Airfields for more information on
clearance decontamination procedures.
5.
Containment of Residual Hazards
Expect to receive taskings to
identify, assess, and mitigate contamination hazards that may remain at the end
of the conflict. An assessment based on the accurate records of known hazards
will help determine what actions are necessary (e.g., isolation, weathering,
decontamination, containerization). Decontamination may be required, and
decontaminated materials may be transferred to the HN or to follow-on forces.
6. Recovery and
Control of Enemy Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Capabilities
Emphasis will be placed on
identifying and securing enemy CBRN capabilities. As enemy CBRN weapons,
agents, and facilities are discovered, they will likely be disabled, destroyed,
or isolated. Decontamination elements can expect taskings to support the
recovery and control of enemy CBRN capabilities.
a. As in combat operations,
prior planning will facilitate decontamination support and ensure that the
mission is successful. Decontamination elements should maintain close
coordination with those forces searching for and assessing residual enemy CBRN
capabilities (particularly the types of agents, locations, and size of
facilities). This coordination will enable decontamination planners to
anticipate logistics, transportation, and personnel requirements.
b. A search and recovery task
force (S/RTF), formed to gain timely control over enemy CBRN capabilities, may
include a decontamination specialist to advise on how items, facilities, or
hazard areas may be decontaminated or advise on the practicality of
decontamination. This specialist would provide vital planning information to
the decontamination element.
c. The S/RTF would also provide emergency
responses to CBRN incidents or accidents, resulting in an emergency response
from the supporting decontamination element. This requires the decontamination
element to maintain close coordination with its higher HQ and supporting
transportation and logistics elements. 4 April 2006 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP
3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 VI-3
7. Force Health
Protection
a. The services use MEDSURV
systems to identify outbreaks of illness, which can help in the assessment and
identification of potential BW casualties. Medical teams can identify, treat,
and handle CBRN casualties. MTFs have personnel who are trained
indecontamination procedures so that only clean patients will enter and be
admitted to hospitals. Biologically contagious patients can be treated under
isolation conditions. HSS systems also conduct health risk assessments for CBRN
and TIM exposure and monitor individual exposure as part of their
recordkeeping. For more information, see FM 4-02.7.
b. Records kept by
decontamination elements also contribute to the surveillance process. When
coordinated with health service units is maintained, useful information on
individual exposure and decontamination (such as the type of agent, level of
radiation exposure, number of exposed individuals, dates and times of exposure
events) can be provided to assess the patient’s condition and short- and long-term
treatment requirements
. 8. Coordination With Multinational
Forces or Nonmilitary Entities
a. As
combat operations terminate, multinational forces or HN elements may arrive and
assume missions from redeploying US units. The activities of these forces and
organizations may include the decontamination and management of contaminated
areas. The US decontamination elements may be tasked to take the lead or to
assist in these activities. Working relationships with these elements should be
defined by a treaty or MOU. b. Incoming personnel must be briefed on
multinational or HN procedures, equipment, and training. In any case, ensure
that the responsibilities of each element and the procedures to be used are
agreed to and clearly understood by all parties.
9. Contaminated
Materials Retrogradation
As a
part of unit redeployment, some equipment to be redeployed (retrograded) may
have potential residual or low-level contamination. Suspected equipment may be
identified through the records made during operational and thorough
decontamination operations. Also, any vehicle or piece of equipment that was
present in an attack or a downwind hazard area may have residual contamination.
a. If equipment is to be
retrograded under nonemergency conditions, then it is assumed that there will
be time for thorough and clearance decontamination and weathering. Redeployment
planning should specify consolidation points in the JRA for equipment suspected
of residual contamination. Specialized detectors and monitors may beneeded for
clearance decontamination to confirm and monitor for contamination. As
suspected equipment is consolidated for monitoring, decontamination, and
weathering, security and buffer zones around the site provide an additional
contamination control measure. Personnel engaged in monitoring, preparation,
and clearance decontamination of equipment will require stringent personal
protection and specialized detectors. This process may continue for weeks or
months.
b. Even after thorough
decontamination, potential vapor and contact hazards will likely remain. The
risk increases as contaminated equipment is consolidated and as personnel work
around the equipment for extended periods. The risk increases again as
equipment is disassembled for maintenance or containerization (therefore, the
need for clearance decontamination). However, given the limitations of
decontamination technology, VI-4 FM 3-11.5/MCWP 3-37.3/NTTP 3-11.26/AFTTP(I) 3-2.60 4
April 2006
some items of equipment may
require extensive weathering before retrogradation, or may have to be
destroyed.
c. Once in the continental United States
(CONUS), an item of equipment with a contamination history will require
precautionary measures throughout its remaining life cycle. Guidance on the
eventual disposition of previously contaminated equipment should be provided
from the strategic level. d. Accurate record keeping is crucial to a successful
clearance decontamination operation. Messages sent or received via the NBCWRS;
records of personnel and equipment undergoing operational, thorough, and
clearance decontamination; and photographic or video records will be referred
to again in assessing a unit’s requirements during clearance decontamination
operations and in evaluating the (former) battlespace for residual CBRN and TIM
hazards. Especially important are NBC 4, 5, and 6 reports, which may also be
used to report TIM hazards. There may be a requirement to share information on
contaminated areas (contained in NBC 4, 5, and 6 reports) with the HN. (The
securitythat surrounded an NBC5 report during operations may no longer be
required when hostilities have ceased.) These reports may also form the basis
for new CBRN reconnaissance and monitoring missions at the end of hostilities.
(1) Records pertaining to personnel and equipment that have undergone
operational and thorough decontamination are also necessary for assessing the
unit undergoing clearance decontamination. These records are made at the
predecontamination triage (they identify elements that required decontamination
and identify uncontaminated elements that were sent ahead to the
postdecontamination AA) and should contain vehicle and equipment identification
numbers. While the contaminated unit is responsible for maintaining an accurate
decontamination record, it is useful for the supporting decontamination element
to keep a duplicate record. For example, such records can be used to justify
the expenditure of decontamination materials and the reordering of supplies. In
the context of clearance decontamination operations, the decontamination
element may be required to account for decontaminated personnel and equipment,
even those that belong to a supported unit. (2) Prepare follow-up reports as
the conflict nears an end. Prepare summaries that outline when, where, and how
CBRN attacks or TIM incidents occurred. These records will facilitate many of
the tasks associated with clearance decontamination operations, particularly
postconflict IPB and the containment of residual hazards. Site incident reports
involving personnel will be useful in evaluating long-term health issues that
could be operationally related and will contribute to overall FHP.
