NBC Field Handbook FM 3 7

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* FM 3-7

FIELD MANUAL HEADQUARTERS

NO. 3-7 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

Washington, DC, 29 September 1994

NBC Field Handbook

Preface ... ii

Chapter 1 NBC Warning and Reporting System ... 1-1
Chapter 2 Chemical ... 2-1
Chapters Protection and Decontamination ... 3-1
Chapter 4 Nuclear Protection ... 4-0
Chapter 5 Biological Protection ... 5-0
Chapters Smoke ... 6-1
Chapter 7 Flame Field Expedients ... 7-1
Appendix A Combat Orders ... A-0

Appendix B NBC Defense Equipment and Training Aids ... B-1
Appendix C NBC Signs ... C-1
Appendix D Tactical Operations ... D-1
Appendix E Conversions and Measurements ... E-0
References ... References- 1
Glossary ... Glossary-1
Index ... Index-1

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Distribution is authorized to US government
agencies only to protect technical or operational information, as well as
unclassified, controlled, nuclear information (UCN) material from automatic
dissemination under the International Exchange Program or by other means. This
determination was made 29 November 1993. Other rquests for this document
will be referred to Commandant, US Army Chemical School, ATTN:

ATZN-CM-FNB, Fort McClellan, AL 36205-5020.

DESTRUCTION NOTICE: Destroy by any method that will prevent disclosure of
contents or reconstruction of the document.

* This publication supersedes FM 3-7, 27 September 1 990.

FM 3-7

PREFACE

This manual, FM 3-7, is designed as a guide to help the chemical soldier at battalion
level and below in NBC defense. It details the NBC warning and reporting system,
and how to locate, identify, and operate in and aroimd NBC contamination. This
manual is designed to bean easy-to-read, step-by-step manual depicting the manual
method of calculating NBC defense procedures useful for the field soldier. A more
detailed discussion of NBC defensive measures may be found in:

FM 3-3, Chemical and Biological Contamination Avoidance

FM 3-3-1, Nuclear Contamination Avoidance

FM 3-4, NBC Protection

FM 3-4-1, Fixed Site Protection

FM 3-5, NBC Decontamination

FM 3-11, Flame Field Expedients

Chemical soldiers must be familiar with and be able to apply the information in this
manual.

Although this manual does not implement any particular international agreement,
material presented herein complies with relateci international agreemen ts. A list of
related international agreements and other references can be found in the ! referenc"^
section.

Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine gender is used, both men and
women are included.

The proponent for this manual is HQ, TRADOC. Submit changes for improving
this publication on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and
Blank Forms) and forward it to:

Commandant

U.S. Army Chemical School
ATTN: ATZN-CM-FNB
Fort McClellan, AL 36205-5020.

FM 3-7

CHAPTER 1

NBC Warning and Reporting
System

The NBCWRS consists of standard NBC Reports and Strike Warnings. This system
is broken down into the following areas: '

• NBC threat status

• NBC warning and reporting system (NBCWRS)

• Friendly strike warnings

• NBC weather and wind messages

NBC Threat Status
(STANAG 2984)

a. Serial 0 (none).

The opposing force does not possess any NBC defense equipment, is not trained in
NBC defense or employment, and does not possess the capability to employ NBC
warfare agents or systems.

b. Serial 1 (low).

The opposing force has an offensive NBC capability, has received training in defense
and employment techniques, but there is no indication of the use of NBC weapons
in the immediate future.

c. Serial 2 (medium).

The opposing force is equipped and trained in NBC defense and employment
techniques. NBC weapons and employment systems are readily avai™le. NBC
weapons may have been employed in other areas of the theater.

Employment of NBC weapons is considered probable. Indicators would be:

• NBC munitions deployed to field storage sites.

• Enemy troops wearing or carrying protective equipment.

• NBC reccon elements observed with conventional recon units.

• NBC decon elements moved forward.

d. Serial 3 (high).

The opposing force possesses NBC warfare agents and delivery systems. NBC
defense equipment is available and training status is considered at par or better than
that of the United States. NBC weapons have already been employed in the theater
and attack is considered probable in the immediate future. Indicators are:

• NBC attack in progress but not in area of operation.

• NBC warnings/signals to enemy troops.

1-1

FM 3-7

• NBC munitions delivered to firing units within range of friendly forces.

• Movement of surface-to-surface missiles to a launch site.

The threat status can be used for any size or type unit. It is possible to have a CB
(chemical-biological) status of three and a nuclear status of zero.

Vulnerability Analysis

To a ssist field commanders in developing the NBC threat status, refer to tables 1-1,

1-2, and 1-3,

For more detailed discussion of chemical agents, see FM 3-3, Chapter 1 or FM 3-4,
Chapter 3.

Table 1-1. CB threat status matrix.

Condition

Serial Number

Enemy force information:

• Training status

• NBC equipment availability

• Wearing overgarments

• In collective protection shelters, in positions with
overhead cover, or exposed?

CB weapon systems:

• Availability of CB weapons

• CB weapons moved to firing units or launch sites?

• Weather radars queued?

• Decon/recon assets forward?

Enemy CB policy and capabilities:

• What is enemy's stated policy on CB weapons
employment?

• Can enemy produce CB agents?

• Has industrial output increased or changed for production
of CB munitions or protective equipment?

Current Situation:

• have CB weapons been used in theater?

• Is weather favorable for CB attack?

• Is terrain favorable for CB attack?

Totals (circle current status)

Use Xs to mark applicable boxes or degree of threat. Total number of Xs in each column,
and use serial number with largest number as current threat status.

1-2

FM 3-7

Table 1-2. Nuclear threat status matrix.

Condition

Serial Number

Enemy force information:

• Training status

• NBC equipment availability

• In collective protection shelters, in positions with
overhead cover, or exposed

Nuclear weapons systems:

• Availability of nuclear weapons

• Nuclear weapons moved forward to firing units or launch
sites?

• Weather radars queued?

• Decon/recon assets forward?

Enemy nuclear policy and capabilities:

• What is enemy's stated policy on nuclear weapons
employment?

• Can enemy produce nuclear weapons?

• Has industrial output increased or changed for production
of nuclear munitions or protective equipment

Current situation:

• Have nuclear weapons been used in theater?

• Is weather favorable for nuclear attack?

• Is terrain favorable for nuclear attack?

Totals (circle current status)

Use Xs to mark applicable boxes or degree of threat. Total columns and use
serial number with largest number as current threat status.

1-3

FM 3-7

Table 1-3. Casualty estimate for initial chemical hazards.

Type Munition

Target Radii
(Meters)

Percent Casualties

Nonpersistent

Persistent

Nerve

Blood

Nerve

Blister

Bursting

150

500

1,000

Spray

150

500

1,000

‘Troops In M0PP1 or M0PP2. For troops In M0PP4, reduce casualty
percentages to a negligible level.

Table 1-4. Chemical agent persistency in hours on
chemical agent resistant coated painted surfaces.

Temperature

Agents

c°

F°

ga/gf'

GB2, 3

GD2, 3

HD1

VX 2. 3

-30

-22

110.34

436.69

« *

* « «

-20

-4

45.26

145.63

* •

• « «

-10

20.09

54.1 1

K •

* • «

•

9.44

22.07

• «

« • •

1.42

4.70

9.78

1776

0.71

2.45

4.64

6.33

634

0.33

1.35

2.36

2.8

241

104

0.25

0.76

1.25

102

122

0.25

0.44

0.70

131

0.25

0.34

0.51

NOTES:

1 For grassy terrain, multiply the number In the chart by 0.4.

2 For grassy terrain, multiply the number In the chart by 1.75.

3 For sandy terrain, multiply the number in the chart by 4.5.

‘ Agent persistency time is more than 1 .42.

** Agent is In a frozen state and will not evaporate or decay.
*** Agent persistency time exceeds 2,000 hours.

1-4

FM 3-7

Artillery Aircraft Spray Missile

Figure 1-1. Heavy liquid contamination on M9 paper.

Artillery

Aircraft Spray

Missile

# I J

Figure 1-2. Moderate liquid contamination on M9 paper
(1 gram/square meter).

1-5

FM 3-7

Estimate Delivery Capability Generate Effects Information

Figure 1-3. Chemical Vulnerability and Assessment
and Force Ih-otection

1-6

FM 3-7

Table 1-5. GB nerve agent casualties.

Rounds per 100m or .1 km

Temperature °

BM-21/.1 km*

152mm/.1 km*

122mm/.1 km*

10%

16%

24%

33%

14%

22%

30%

40%

19%

27%

37%

47%

25%

34%

43%

54%

31%

40%

50%

60%

Casualty Percentage |

Table 1-6. TGD or VX nerve agent casualties.

Rounds

Temperature °

Msl/

10km*

Msl/

1 .5km*

Bombs/

10km*

Bombs/
1 .5 km*

14%

20%

21%

18%

25%

12%

24%

31%

16%

28%

36%

19%

32%

40%

41%

21%

35%

42%

43%

106

23%

37%

44%

45%

Casualty Percentage

Table 1-7. THD blister agent casualties.

Munitions in Rounds

Protective Posture

152 mm/1 00m*

122 mm/1 00m*

MOPP Zero

MOPP 1

17%

13%

24%

18%

34%

23%

43%

28%

51%

32%

57%

36%

Casualty Percentage

1-7

FM 3-7

Flow of NBC Reports

NBC reports 1 through 6 move between units and higher headquarters as shown in
Figure 1-4.

NBC 2, 3, and 5* Reports.
NBC 1 and 4 Reports.

NBC 6 *• Reports.

NBC 1 •*• Nuclear.

* Best sent as an overlay.

•* Sent only when requested.

*•* For nuclear attacks, only designated observer units will submit reports to
division NBCCs (NBC centers). All other units will be prepared to send the
information, if requested.

Figure 1-4. Flow of NBC Reports.

1-8

FM 3-7

LINE

NUCLEAR

CHEMICAL &
BIOLOGICAL

REMARKS

Strike serial number

Assigned by NBC
center

Position of observer

Use grid coordinates
(UTM or place).

Direction of attack
from observer to
include unit of
measure

Direction of attack
from observer

Nuclear: Deg
magnetic north (DMN)
or mills (MMN). Deg
true north (DTN) or
mils (MTN). Deg grid
north (DGN) or mils
(MGN). Chemical:
Direction measured
clockwise from grid
north or magnetic
north (state which) in
degrees or mils (state
which).

Date-time group of
detonation

DTG os start of attack

Nuclear: Use Zulu
time.

Chemical: Designate
time zone used.

N/A

DTG of end of attack

Designate time zone
used.

Location of area
attacked

Use grid coordinates
(or place). State
whether location is
actual or estimated.

Suspected or
observed event and
means of delivery or
kind of attack

Kind of attack

State whether attack
was by artillery,
mortars, rockets,
missiles, bombs, or
spray.

Type of burst

Type of agent/type of
burst;

P (persistent),

NP (nonpersistent)

Nuclear: Specify air,
surface, or subsurface.
Chemical: State
whether air, ground,
or spray attack.

Figure 1-5. Meaning of line items in NBC reports.

1-9

FM 3-7

LINE

NUCLEAR

CHEMICAL &
BIOLOGICAL

REMARKS

N/A

Number of munitions
or aircraft

If known

Flash-to-bang time

N/A

Use seconds

Crater present or
absent and diameter

Description of terrain
and vegetation

Nuclear: Send in
meters

Chemical: Send in
NBC 6

Cloud width at
H + 5 minutes

N/A

State whether
measured in degrees
or mils

Stabilized cloud top
or cloud bottom
angle or cloud top or
bottom height at
H + 10 min

N/A

Nuclear: State
whether angle is
cloud top or cloud
bottom and whether
measured in degrees
or mils.

Chemical: State
whether height is
cloud top or cloud
bottom and whether
measured in meters
or feet.

Estimated yield

N/A

Send as KT

Reference date-time
for estimated contour
line when not H + 1

N/A

Use when contours
are not plotted at
H + 1.

Radar purposes only

N/A

Predicted hazard area
(coordinates)

If wind speed is 10
kmph or less, this
item is 01 0 (the
radius of the hazard
area in kilometers).

PAR

Coordinates of
external contours of
radioactive cloud

N/A

Six-digit coordinates.
Letter R identifies
RADAR set.

Figure 1-5. Meaning of iine items in NBC reports
(Continued).

1-10

FM 3-7

LINE

NUCLEAR

CHEMICAL &
BIOLOGICAL

REMARKS

N/A

Duration of hazard in
the attack and hazard
area

In days, hours, I

minutes, etcetera.

PBR

Downwind direction
of radioactive cloud
and unit of measure

N/A

Deg magnetic north
(DGM) or mils (MLM).
Deg true north (DGT)
or mils (MLT). Dog
grid north (DGG) or
mils (MLG). Letter R
identifies RADAR set.

Location of reading

Location of sampling
and type of sample

Nuclear: UTM or
place. Chemical: UTM
or place. State
whether test was air
or liquid.

Dose rate or actual
value of decay
exponent

N/A

State dose rate in
cGyph. See sample
NBC4 for terms
associated with this
line.

Date-time group of
reading

Date-time group

contamination

detected

State time initial I

identification test
sample or reading
was taken.

H + 1 date-time group

Date-time group of
latest contamination
survey of the area

NBC 5 and NBC 6
reports only.

1 ,000-cGyph contour
line

N/A

Plot in red.

300-cGyph contour
line

N/A

Plot in green.

100-cGyph contour
line

N/A

Plot in blue.

Figure 1-5. Meaning of line items in NBC reports
(Continued).

1-11

FM 3-7

NUCLEAR

CHEIMICAL &
BIOLOGICAL

REMARKS

20-cGyph contour
line; (30-cGyph
contour line is used
by other NATO
forces)

Area of actual
contamination

Nuclear: Rot in black.
Chemical: Plot in
yellow.

Direction of left and
right radial lines

Downwind direction
of hazard and wind
speed

Nuclear: Direction
measured clockwise
from GN to the left
and then right rradial
lines (degrees or
mils, state which), 4
digits each.
Chemical: Direction:
4 digits (degrees or
mils). Wind speed: 3
digits (kmph).

Effective wind speed

Downwind distance
of Zone 1

Cloud radius

(Include unit of
measure for each
category)

N/A

3 digits — effective
wind speed (kmph).

3 digits — Downwind
distance of zone 1
(km or nautical miles)
2 digits — cloud
radius (km or nautical
miles).

If wind speed is less
than 8 kmph, this
line contains only
3-digit radius of zone
1 (km).

N/A

Significant weather
phenomena

Air stability (2
digits). Temperature
in centigrade (2
digits). Humidity (1
digit). Significant
weather phenomena
(1 digit). Cloud cover
(1 digit).

Used to transmit
correlation factors or
transmission factors

Remarks

Figure 1-5. Meaning of line items in NBC reports
(Continued).

1-12

FM 3-7

NBC 1 Observers' Initial Report.

This report is used by the observing unit to give basic initial and follow-up data
about an NBC attack. It is sent by platoons and companies to battalion
headquarters. Battalion and higher elements must consolidate reports and decide
which NBC 1 to forward. The NBC 1 report following the first use of NBC
weapons is sent with a FLASH precedence. Subsequent reports are sent with a
precedence of IMMEDIATE. Only observers specifically designated by the
division NBC center send NBC I (nuclear) reports.

Line

Nuclear

Biological (suspected)

Chemical

NB062634

LB206300

LB200300

90 deg Grid

201405Z Mar 93

200410Z Mar 93

201405Z Mar 93

20041 4Z Mar 93

201412Z Mar 93

LB206300 Act

LB200300 Est

Artillery

Aerial spray

Bomblets

Surface

Unknown

Nerve, P, ground

60 Sec

1 5 Deg

1 NOTES: 1 . Line items B, D, H, and either C or F should always be reported; I

Other line items may be used if the information is known.
Transmit line item MIKE (nuclear) only when data for line item

LIMA cannot be obtained.

2. Biological attacks are considered to be "suspected

' until

confirmed by laboratory analysis.

Figure 1-6. NBC 1 Report.

NBC 2 Evaluated Data Report.

The NBC 2 report is based on two or more NBC 1 reports. It is used to pass
evaluated data to units. Division is usually the lowest level to prepare an NBC 2
report. However, a brigade or battalion might do so, especially during
independent operations.

1-13

FM 3-7

Line

Nudear

Biological (suspected)

Chemical

1ID024

B001

C002

201405Z Mar 93

20041 OZ Mar 93

201405Z Mar 93

NB107186 Est

LB206300 Act

LB200300 Act

Artillery

Aerial spray

Bomblets

Surface

Unknown

Nerve, P, ground

0270 015

518640

1 NOTES: 1 . This report is normally based on two or more NBC 1 reports. It {

includes an attack location and, in the case of a nuclear

detonation, an evaluated yield.

2. Refer to the chemical downwind message to determine cloud
cover, significant weather phenomena, and air stability.

3. Line ZULA ALPHA contains the 6-digit code from the CDNI.

4. Use other line items if information is known.

Figure 1-7. NBC 2 Report.

NBC 3 Warning of Predicted Contamination Report.

The NBCC uses NBC 1 reports and wind information to predict downwind hazard
areas. This is disseminated as an NBC 3 report. Each unit evaluates the NBC 3
report, determines which of its subordinate units may be affected, and
disseminates the report as required. This report warns commanders when they
may be within a downwind hazard area so they may take protective measures.

NBC 4 Reconnaissance, Monitoring and Survey Report.

When a unit detects NBC hazards through monitoring, survey, or reconnaissance,
this information is reported as an NBC 4 report. Reports from various units are
plotted on the NBCC situation map to show where hazards exist. These reports
are prepared and submitted by company-level organizations.

NBC 5 Actual Contaminated Areas Report.

Once the NBC 4 reports are posted on the situation map, an NBC 5 report is
prepared showing the contammated area. NBC 5 reports usually are prepared by
division. The preferred method of dissemination is by map overlay.

NBC 6 Detailed Information on Chemical/Biological
Attack Report.

This report, summarizing information concerning a chemical or biological attack,
is prepared at battalion. It is submitted to higher headquarters only when
requested. If desired, it can be sent from higher to lower for information purposes.

STRIKWARN (Friendly Nuclear Strike)

1-14

FM 3-7

Line

Nuclear

Chemical

1ID024

C002

201405Z Mar 93

NB107186 Est

LB200300 Act

Surface

Nerve, P, ground

LB1 90300
LB200312
LB200300

In attack area 2-4 days.

In warning area 1-2 days.

0272031 2 deg

0270 deg, 015 kmph

01902505

NOTES:

1 . If the effective wind speed is less than 8 kmph, line ZULU of the

NBC 3 nuclear report consists of three digits for the radius of

Zone 1.

2. If the wind speed is less than 10 kmph, line PAPA ALFA of the
NBC 3 chemical report is 010 (the radius of the hazard area km).

3. NBC 3 nuclear is used for passing immediate warning of
predicted radiological contamination from friendly bursts.

4. Use other line items if information is known.

Figure 1-8. NBC 3 Report.

Line

Nuclear

Biological

Chemical

NB1 23987
35

201535Z Mar 93

Unknown Agent
NB211603
201605Z Mar 93

Nerve, P

LB200300, liquid
01430Z Mar 93

NOTES; 1. Line items HOTEL, QUEBEC, ROMEO, and SIERRA may be repeated as
often as necessary.

2. Radiation dose rates are measured in the open with the instrument 1 meter
above the ground.

3. In line ROMEO, descriptive words such as "initial," "peak," "special,"
"series," "verification," "contact," or "summary" may be added.

4. If readings are taken inside a vehicle or shelter, also give the correlation

factor with line item ZULU BRAVO.

Figure 1-9. NBC 4 Report.

1-15

FM 3-7

Line

Nuclear

Chemical

1ID024

C002

201405Z Mar 93

Surface

Nerve, P, ground

201535Z Mar 93

201430Z Mar 93

201505Z Mar 93

201500Z Mar 93

NB1 05690

NB108685

NB1 05680

NB1 04694

NB1 11685

NB093683

NB103698

LB200300

NB1 14686

LB191291

NB091680

LB1 90300

NOTES: 1 . This report is best sent as an overlay if time arvJ the tactical situation
permit.

2. When contamination arises from a single burst, the dose rate always refers
to H 4- 1 hour, and the line item TANGO is used. When several detonations
at different times or on different days and no single H + 1 hour is possible,
then dose rates are reported as at a specified time, using line item OSCAR.
Therefore, line items OSCAR and TANGO cannot both be used in the same
report.

3. Contour lines are to be annotated with dose rates.

Figure 1-10. NBC 5 Report

Line

Multiple

Single

Hot Candle

AC002

162025Z— 162155Z

072220Z— 07231 OZ

Oil NB706101

025

PA490650

042

PA511671

PA531174

PA527650

PA575650

Surface 3

1 '

1 NOTE: If the burst has less than a 99 % chance of being an airburst, an NBC 3 nuclear
report should be prepared for separate transmission.

Figure 1-12. STRiKWARN message.

1-16

FM 3-7

Chemical or Biological I

C002

201405Z Mar 93

201412E Mar 93

■■

LB200300, Act

Bomblets

Nerve, P, Airburst

Unknown

Mostly small houses and barns, elevation 600 meters

Attack received as counterfire, from aircraft, enemy bypassed on
right flank of atttack area.

Liquid ground sample taken by detection team In attack area

201430Z Mar 93

201500Z Mar 93

As per overlay

Downwind direction 0270 degrees, wind speed 015 kmph.

This is the second chemical attack in our area to date.

NOTES: 1 . This report is designed to be presented at battalion level and above and is
to be submitted only when requested.

2. This report is completed by battalion and higher NBC personnel. It is in
narrative form, giving as much detailed information as possible for each line
item.

3. This report is also suitable for accompanying samples sent for analysis.

Figure 1-11. NBC 6 Report.

1-17

FM 3-7

Line

Item

Meaning

Target number of "nickname:

a. Multiple burst. Date-time attack (pulse) will start, followed by
date-time attack (pulse) will end (ZULU time).

b. Single burst: Date-time of attack followed by date-time after
which attack will be cancelled (ZULU time).

*F1

a. Multiple. UTM grid coordinatesof MSD 1 box.

b. Single. MSD in hundreds of meters followed by UTM grid
coordinates of GZ or DGZ. (If more than one MSD Is Included, GZ or
DGZ will be included only in the first FOXTROT line sent).

a. Multiple. UTM grid coordinates of MSD 2 box.

b. Single: MSD2 in hundreds of meters (followed by UTM grid
coordinates of GZ or DGZ, if only one FOXTROT sent).

a. Multiple. UTM grid coordinates of MSD 3 box.

b. Single. MSD 3 in hundreds of meters (followed by UTM grid
coordinates of GZ or DGZ if only one FOXTROT sent).

If one or more bursts has less than 99% assurance of being an
airburst, or if it is a scheduled surface or subsurface burst, indicate
"surface," preceded by the total number of surface and/or
subsurface bursts. If only one burst is surface, number need not be
sent. If all bursts are airbursts, do not transmit.

Number of bursts in multiple attack. If single burst, do not transmit.

* Line should be encoded.

Cancellation occurs when:

1 . Authenticated message consisting of Line ALPHA and word "cancelled”.

2. Single burst detonates. Multiple burst window ends.

3. After strike window ends.

Figure 1-13. STRiKWARN format.

1-18

FM 3-7

Radius

Corresponding to

Zone

Requirements

< MSD^

Limit of negligible risk to
warned and protected
personnel (see note 5)

Evacuate all personnel
(see note 4).

> MSD^
^ MSD^

Limit of negligible risk to
warned and exposed
personnel.

Maximum protection (see
note 6) to remain.

> msd’

< MSD^

Limit of negligible risk to
unwarned and exposed
risk.

Minimum protection (see
note 7) to remain.

More than
MSD^

No protection measures
except against dazzle and
pulse EMP.

NOTE 1. MSO means minimum safe distance.

NOTE 2. When surface bursts are used, or an intended airburst has less than a 99%
assurarnce of no militarily significant fallout, the fallout hazard will be considered.
Details will be transmitted In a subsequent NBC 3 nuclear report if fallout will be a
hazard to friendly units.

NOTE 3. Commanders will be guided to safety criteria as stated in FM 101-31-1.

NOTE 4. If a unit commander is unable to evacuate Zone I, he will immediately assume
the best protection possible and report through his next higher headquarters to the
releasing/executing commander.

NOTE 5. Negligible risk should not normeilly be exceeded unless significant advantages
will be gained.

NOTE 6. Maximum protection for ground forces denotes that personnel are in "closed
up” tanks or sheltered in foxholes with overhead shielding, or the equivalent.

NOTE 7. Minimum protection for ground forces denotes that personnel are prone on
open ground with all skin areas covered and with an overall thermal protection at least
equal to that provided by a two-layer uniform.

NOTE 8. Since the least separation distance (LSD) for light aircraft is exceeded by
MSD 3, atrcrait remaining beyond MSD 3 will avoid significant degrdation of the
airframe or pilot performance (exxcept against dazzle)severe enough to prevent mission
accomplishment.

Figure 1-14. Protection requirements for
friendly nuclear strike.

1-19

FM 3-7

NBC WEATHER AND WIND MESSAGES
Effective Downwind Message (EDM)

ZULU

DDTTTT

Date-Time Group

Winds Were Measured (ZULU)

ALEA

dddsss—

Over 0 thru 2 KT

BRAVO

dddsss—

Over 2 thru 5 KT

CHARLIE

dddsss—

Over 5 thru 30 KT

DELTA

dddsss—

Over 30 thru 100 KT

ECHO

dddsss—

Over 100 thru 300 KT

FOXTROT

dddsss—

Over 300 thru 1 MT

GOLF

dddsss—

Over 1 thru 3 MT

1. The first three digits (ddd) give the effective wind direction, in degrees, from
grid north.

2. The second three digits (sss) give the effective wind speed in kilometers per hour.

3. The last three digits (— ) give the expanded angle in degrees (in NATO use 7th
digit as follows:

4 = 40 degree angle 0 = 100 degree angle

5 = 50 degree angle 1 = 110 degree angle

6 = 60 degree angle 2 = 120 degree angle

7 = 70 degree angle 3 = more than 120 degree angle

8 = 80 degree angle

9 = 90 degree angle

4. If wind speed is less than 8 kmph, the preselected yield group line will contain
only the 3-digit radius of Zone 1.

Each EDM is valid for 12 hours. It is used in conjunction with the NB C 2 Nuclear
Report to form a simplified fallout prediction (discussed in lChapter^ .

Chemical Downwind Message

1. Each chemical downwind message (CDM) is valid for only 6 hours.

2. The area affected may be a map sheet number or an area, such as 1 Corps.

1-20

FM 3-7

1 1 0500 ZULU 110600 ZULU
I Corps

WHISKEY MIKE 120010418742
XRAY MIKE 125019416742
YANKEE MIKE 130005518642

WHISKEY: 120010418742

Cbtxi covftr code

0 • Sky l*M thin kiK

covered by cloude

1 ■ Helf the eky covered

by eloude

2 • More than helf the

•by covered by
clouds

Sisrtifiesrtt weather
pherwmene code

3 • Blowing snow or

sand

♦ • Fog, Ice fog, or ihleli

haze

5 ■ Drizzle

B • Rain

7 ■ Light rain or snow

8 ■ Showers of rain,

Sf>ow^ hail or a
mixture

9 ■ Thunderstorm

S = Elevated Inversion
Layer

* NOTE: Unknown weather data is represented by a dash <>).

Figure 1-15. How to read weather information
in a chemical downwind message.

1-21

FM 3-7

3. Lines WHISKEY MIKE, XRAY MIKE, and YANKEE MIKE each contain
coded weather information. Line WHISKEY MIKE is valid for only the first 2
hours; line XRAY MIKE for the next 2 hours; and line YANKEE MIKE for the
last 2 hours of the six covered.

Strike

Serial

Number

(A)

Date/Time
of Attack
(ZULU)
(D)

Coordinates

(Act/Est)

IF)

ICind of
Attck
16)

Type of
Agent
(H)

Remarks

C001

200945Z

LB200300

Est

Artillery

Nerve

(NP)

Air

Figure 1-16. Suggested format for a chemical/biological
strike serial log

1-22

FM 3-7

CHAPTER 2

Chemical

Atmospheric Stability Charts

Temperature Gradients

Inversion Temperature Gradient (Stable-S). This condition usually exists on a
clear or partially clear night when middle and low clouds cover less than 30 percent
of the sky, and on early mornings until about 1 hour after sunrise when the wind
speed is less than 5 kmph--ideal for enemy employment of chemical agents.

Neutral Temperature Gradient (NeutraTN). This condition usually exists on
heavily overcast days or nights at 1 or 2 hours before sunset or 1 to 2 hours after
sunrise when the middle and low clouds cover more than 30 percent of the sky.
Independent of cloud cover and time of day, a neutral condition may also exist when
the wind speed is greater than 5 kmph. Additionally, periods of precipitation are
normally accompanied by a neutral condition. A neutral temperature gradient is
most favorable for enemy use of biological agents.

Lapse Temperature Gradient (Unstable-U). This condition normally exists on a
clear day when the middle and low clouds cover less than 30 percent of the sky and
when the wind speed is less than 5 kmph. It is the least favorable condition for the
enemy to employ chemical or biological agents. When a lapse condition exists,
area coverage without diffusion will be enhanced with a steady low wind speed of
3 to 7 kmph.

To obtain the air stability c

, refer to lTable l-Tl Enter l Table 2-21 with the
category obtai ned from Table"2-lJ Select the appropriate weather and terrain
conditions from ITable 2-2J Read aCTOSS to where the columns intersect and extract
the final stability category. For more information on field expedient behavior of
chemical agents, see FM 3-6 or from COM.

2-1

FM 3-7

Table 2- 1. Air stability category basic chart

11 = Unstable

\ Air Stability Category Basic Chart

N = Neutral

S = Stable

Time of day"

Condition of Sky |

and

angle of sun

Less than half
covered

More than half
covered

Overcast

M < 4°

R >4° < 32°

1 >32° < 40°

G >40°

>46°

V >35° 46°

N >12° 35°

N >5° 12°

< 5°

° At night, use 4°

Table 2-3. Downwind distance of warning area

Means of Delivery (from line G of the
NBC 1 or NBC 2)

Distance (km) from the center of the
attack area along the downwind axis,
when the stability condition is —

Artillery, bomblets, and mortars

Multiple rocket launchers, missiles,
bombs, and unknown munitions.

2-2

FM 3-7

Table 2-2. Air stability category adjustment chart.

Air Stability Category Adjustment Chart

U = Unstable
N = Neutral
S — Stable

Weather and Terrain

All eight conditions given beiow must be checked. If
more than one applies, choose the most stable
category.

Stability Category
from Basic Chart

Dry to slightly moist surface.

Wet surface (after continuous rain or de\w).

Frozen surface or partly covered with snow, frost, or
permafrost.

Surface completely covered with snow.

Continuous rainfall.

Haze or mist (visibility 1 to 4 km).

Fog (visibility less than 1 km).

Downwind speed more than 18 kmph.

Once the proper stability condition is determined, use Table 2-3 to compute the
downwind distance for Type A attacks.

2-3

FM 3-7

Chemical Hazard Plotting Steps

Air-Contaminating Agents-Type A

Type A agents normally are dispersed as aerosols or vapor clouds with little or no
contamination on the ground.

Ground-Contaminating Agents-Type B

Type B agents normally are expected to be dispersed in liquid form to contaminate
surfaces.

TYPE A

TYPE B

NON-PERSISTAKT
GB, GD, CX, CO.
OF. AC. CK

PERSISTANT
HN.3, L,

HD, THO, TOD, VX

pc-

1* Windspeed
Over lOkmph?

VES —
1

la Wb>dcpee4
Over lOkmph?

ASSUMPT10WS

Unknawti aganli, auum*
non-p*rclst«nL

Unknaum ttUck aize, aasume
1-2km for panistani aganU.

Unknown datlvary cystam,
•aaume mlaallea.

Unknown weather
eandlUons, aacume moat
aiable ciae.

Size of
AHeek Area

Attack Area
Exceeds 2km
In Length

VES

Attack Area Redtue

r HA /^ l
( • ) ATTtcK iUItt ( - j

EXT

Attack Area
Larger than 1km,
but leas than or
aqua! to 2km

Attack Ana la 2km wMt
Haiard Araa ia 30km wida

Attack Area
Leaa than or
equal 1o 1km

Attack Area will
Alwraye ba 1km In
Radlua

Figure 2-1. Flow chart.Chemica! Hazard Prediction

2-5

FM 3-7

Chemical Hazard Prediction
Ground Burst Non-Persistent Agent

Typ« “A" Attacks

Windspawl^ 10 KMPH

Windspaad > 10 KMPH

Figure 2-2. Flow chart, type A attack.

2-6

FM 3-7

Plotting Downwind Hazard

Step 1 - Attack
location

Step 2 - 1km Attack
area circle

Step 3 - 10km hazard
area circle

Step 4

Step 3

Example (Type A, Case a)
NBC 3 Chemical Raport

Figure 2-3. Type A, Case a.

STB* 7

Example ITypa A, Caaa b) NBC 3
Chamlcal Rapott

A 002
D 2716472
F LBB807S0 Actual
H Narva, NP, Ground Burnt
*PA LB6SB7S1
LB558764
Ue32774
LB810694
LB558747

V 0106 Dae, 022kmph
2A 218242
ZB Typa A Caaa B

* Coordinata pobMa of Rna PA.

Step 1 - Attack location
Step 2 - Grid north line
Step 3 - 1 km attack area circle
Step 4 - Downwind direction and
speed

Figure 2-4.

Step 5 - Downwind distance
Step 6 - Extended upwind
intersection point
Step 7 - Tangent lines

Type A, Case b.

2-7

FM 3-7

Chemical Hazard Prediction
Air Burst Persistent Agent
Type *B' Attack
WIndtpMd JIL 10 kmph

Type *B
Case *d*

DVyHD

10 km Radius Circle

Sizt AA of Typo D Case d

depends on means of delivery

1 km - ARTY, BomWets* Mortars

2 km • MRL*s. Missiles, Bombs and Unknown

Vyindspitd > 10 kmph
Size of Attack Araa

* All Type 'B* Downwind Distance is 10 km
* Sba of Attack Araa Unknown. Use Type "B" Case 'b*

ProbaUe Time After Ground Contamination
Which Personnel May Safely Remove Mask
(Line Papa Bravol

Daily Mean Surface
Air Temperature

Within Attack Area
Number of Days

Within Hazard Araa
Number of Days

<0-10*CI32 -50* F)

1 1 - 20* C (51 -68* FI
21 - >30* C (69-86* FI

3 ' 10 Days
2 • 4 Days
Up to 2 Days

2 • 6 Days
1 - 2 Days
Up to 1 Day

Figure 2-5. Flow chart, type B attack.

2-8

FM 3-7

STEP 7

Example (Type B Case a) NBC 3
Chemical Report

A 002
D 271472
F LB560750 Actual
H Nerve, NP, Ground Burst
PA LB556751
LB559754
LB632774
LB6 10694
LB558747

Y 0105 Deg. 022 kmph
ZA 218242
ZB Type B Case A
• Coordinate points of line PA.

Plot the same as type A, Case b
Maximum downwind distance is 10km

Figure 2-6. Type B, Case a.

STEP 6

Example (Type B Case b) NBC 3
Chemical Report

A 002
D 271472
F LBe607SO Aduil
H Nsrvs, PER. Ground Burst
PA LBS567B1
LB5597E4
LB632774
LB 106694
LBS68747

Y 0105 Dag, 022 kmph
ZA 218242
ZB Type B Casa b
• Coordlnata Points For Unas PA

Step 1. Attack location

Step 4.

Step 2. Grid north line

Step 5.

Step 3. 2km circle

Step 6.

Downwind direction and distance
Extended upwind intersection
point

Tangent lines

Figure 2-7. Type B, Case b.

2-9

FM 3-7

STEP 6

Example (Type B, Cate c)
NBC 3 Chemical Report

A 007
D 141550Z
F UC3100601O

UC370061 est
H Nerve. V. Spray
PA UC3 13068
UC303068
UC298059
UC306938
UC36S939
UC4S1014

P8 Attack Area 2-4 Days
Hazard Area 1*2 Days
Y 0147 Degrees.

012kmph
ZA 216662

ZB • Coordinate Points For
Line PA

Step 1 . Attack area
Step 2. 1km circles
Step 3. Downwind direction lines

Step 4. Downwind distance
Step 5. Tangent lines

Figure 2-8. Type B, Case c.

Example (Type B. Cate d) NBC 3 Chemical
report

A 005
0 220730Z

F LB2l2295est
H Nerve. V. Akburst
PA 010 km

Y 0105 Deg. 008 kmph
ZA 219462

ZB Radius of Attack Area 1 km. Type 9

Case d

NOTE: Attack area radius depends on
means of delivery.

Step 1 . Attack location
Step 2. 10km circle
Step 3. Attack area circle

Figure 2-9. Type B, Case d.

2-10

FM 3-7

Step 1. Attack area (Start/end points)

Step 2. Start/end point 1 km circles
Step 3. Attack area
Step 4. Start/end point 10km circles
Step 5. Hazard area

Figure 2-10. Type B. Case d (Special).

Adjusted Hazard Prediction

Adjust hazard predictions when:

• Windspeed change of 10 kmph or more

• Wind speed increases from less than 10 kmph to more than lOkmph or the reverse.

• Change of air stability category (Time A attacks only)

• Downwind direction change of 30° or more.

Figure 2- 1 1. Recalculation of downwind hazard area. Type A
attack, after change in downwind direction at Point B.

2-11

FM 3-7

Persistency of Chemical Agents

Table 2-5 shows persistency of chemical agents for moderate contamination. As a
rule of thumb, cooler conditions increase the persistency of chemical agents.
Persistency triples as contamination levels increase from moderate to heavy.
Chemical agent persistency data in Table 2-5 is for surface winds of 10 kmph and
considers weathering only (without decon). For other surfaces use the following
multiplication factors for the times given: alkyd paint = 1.3, bare soil = 4.0.
Agent HL is not shown. To approximate HL, use GD persistency times.
Concentrations of contamination are considered to be heavy at (10 grams per square
meter. One week is considered to be 168 hours. One month (30 days) is equal to
720 hours.

Table 2-5. Chemical Agent Persistency in Hours on CARC
Painted Surfaces

Temperature

GA/GF^

GB^-^

GD^'^

hd’

C”

F°

-30

-22

110.34

436.69

« «

« « •

-20

-4

45.26

145.63

« •

• • •

-10

20.09

54.11

• «

• • «

•

9.44

22.07

« *

• • •

1.42

4.70

9.78

1776

0.71

2.45

4.64

6.33

634

0.33

1.35

2.36

2.8

241

104

0.25

0.76

1.25

102

122

0.25

0.44

0.70

131

0.25

0.34

0.51

’ For grassy terrain multiply the number in the chart by 0.4
^ For grassy terrain multiply the number in the chart by 1 .78
^ For Sandy terrain multiply the number in the chart by 4.5
’Agent persistency time Is greater than 1.42
* * Agent is in a frozen state and will not evaporate or decay
•** Agent persistency time exceeds 2,000 hours

Time of Arrival for Chemical Hazards

The earliest an agent can be expected to arrive at a location is determined by dividing
the distance from the attack center by twice the wind speed. For example, if you
are 10 kilometers from the attack center and the wind speed is 5 kilometers per
hour, the earliest the agent cloud would arrive at your location would be one hour.

10 km V (2 X 5 kmph) = 1 hour

2-12

FM 3-7

Collective Protection

Table 2-6 Types of collective-protection systems for
vehicles and fixed facilities.

System

Description

conditions
Justifying the
Requirement

Example Systems

Ventilated-

faceplate

Series of individual
respiratory systems (or
masks) serviced by a
common filter.

• Clean working area
subject to inadvertent
entry of contamination.

• High work rate,
reduced breathing
resistance.

• Frequent entry and
exit movements.

• Brief inside
occupation.

• Infantry fighting
vehicles.

• Self-propelled
howitzers.

Overpressure

A collective NBC fitter
and overpressure
system inside a
vehicle or shelter

• Critical manual
dexterity skills.

• Limited entry and
exit movements.

• Lengthy inside
occupation.

• Air defense.

• Communications.

• Medical.

• Patient evaluation
vehicles.

• Maintenance and
supply sites.

• Rest and relief.

Hybrid

Combination of
overpressure and
ventHated'facepiece
system.

• Flexibility.

• Lenghty inside
occupation.

• Emergency entry
and exit movements.

• Armored fighting
vehicles (tanks).

• Helicopters.

• Air defense.

• Multiple launcher
rocket system.

Total

Hybrid or overpressure
plus an environmental
control system. Other
categories may also
incorporate
environmental control;
for example, ventilated
facepiece and
microclimatic cooling.

• Same as hybrid.

• Extreme climates.

• Same as hybrid.

2-13

FM 3-7

Table 2-7. GPFU fielded systems.

Number of GPFUs/System

System

M60 Tank

M60A1 Tank

M60A2 Tank

M60A3 Tank

M728 Combat Engineer vehicle

Ml Tank

M1A1 Tank

Figure 2-8. Simplified collective-protection equipment.

Tabu 6~S. Entry proceu dimer.

1 MIN

Figure 2-12. Entry process times.

2-14

FM 3-7

Table 2-13. Modular CPE examples of application

Set-Up’

Tear-Down

System

Personnel

Time

Personnel

Time

in MOPP4

(min)

in MOPP4

(min)

Simplified Collective-Protection

30^

10^

Equipment M20

Modular Collective-Protection

10^

Equipment
M51 Shelter

30®

^ Only set'up time and not fully operational time.

^ Does not include time to seal a room when the liner is not used.
^ Based on disposing of the room liner in place.

^ Protective entrance only.

^ Site-prep and stake-down times not included.

2-15

FM 3-7

Table 2- 14. Collective-protection MOPP levels.

Soldiers Not in Collective
Protection

Soldiers in Collective Protection

MOPP

Level

MOPP Gear

Ventilated

Facepiece

Overpressure

Zero

Overgarment
Overboots
Mask & Hood
Gloves

carried

•Assume MOPP
zero.

• Assume MOPP zero.

• Overpressure off.

Overgarment
Overboots
Mask & Hood
Gloves

worn

carried

• Assume MOPP 1 .

• Assume MOPP zero or
MOPP 1.

• Overpressure on.

Overgarment
Overboots
Mask & Hood
Gloves

worn

carried

• Assume MOPP2.

•maintain MOPP zero or
M0PP1.

• Overpressure on.

• Entry exit procedures not
required.

Overgarment
Overboots
Mask & Hood
Gloves

worn

carried

• Assume MOPP3.
•When mounted,
connect ventilated
facepiece to mask.

• Maintain MOPP zero or
MOPP1 unless interior is
contaminated.

• Overpressure on.

• Exit/entry procedures
required if an attack occurs.

Overgarment
Overboots
Mask & Hood
Gloves

worn

• Assume MOPP3
or MOPP4.*

•When mounted,
connect ventilated
facepiece to mask.

• Maintain MOPP zero or
M0PP1 unless interior is
contaminated.

• Overpressure on.

• Entry/exit procedures
required if an attack occurs.

* During an engagement, the commander may allow personnel protected from liquid
agents to operate temporarily without protective gloves. This option could slightly
Increase the potential for casualties.

2-16

FM 3-7

CHAPTER 3

Protection and Decontamination

1 Table 3- 1. Mission-oriented protective posture (MOPP) levels.

MOPP Equipment

Mopp Levels

MOPP

Zero

MOPPl

MOPP2

MOPP3

M0PP4

Mask

Carried

worn*

Worn

Overgarment

Available

Worn*

Worn"

worn*

Worn

Chemical Protective
Undergarment

Carried

Worn* *

worn* *

Worn**

Vinyl Overboot

Available

Worn

Gloves

Available

Carried

Worn

"The jacket or hood can be left open for ventilation.

""The CPU is worn under the BDU (primarily applies to SOP, armor vehicle
crewman, and aviators).

Modification of standard MOPP levels is authorized (for example, mask only or
mask and gloves only).

Chemical protective helmet cover is put on helmet MOPPl through M0PP4.

Individual Protective Equipment

The BDO/CPOG becomes unserviceable if it is ripped, tom, or a fastener is broken
or missing; or if petroleum, oils, or lubricants are spilled or splashed on the garment.
Chemical protective glove set, greenback vinyl overboot, and chemical protective
footwear covers become unserviceable if ripped, tom, punctured, cracked, or if the
rubber becomes sticky. Serviceability tests for the chemical protective gloves set.
Fill each glove with air and submerge in water, checking for air leaks. Fill glove
with water and check for water leaks. Any leaks make the glove unserviceable.
NOTE: See FM 3-4, Chapter 2, for detailed information.

When the commander directs his unit to go from MOPP Zero to MOPPl, the
chemical officer/NCO will determine BDO/CPOG days of wear. Upon completion
of the mission, the unit returns to MOPP Zero, and overgarments are returned to
their vapor-barrier bag. The chemical officer/NCO at company or battalion level
estimate the number of days of BDO/CPOG wear for his unit. Then uses the
information on days of overgarment wear as input for risk assessment.

3-1

FM 3-7

Table 3-2. Minimum iPE protection capabilities. item

Item

Not exposed to
chemical agent

Exposed to
chemical agent

Battledress overgarment

*30 days

24 hours

Chemical protective overgarment

* 1 4 days

6 hours

1 4/25-mil glove set

« «

24 hours

Green/black vinyl overboot

« «

24 hours

Chemical protective footwear cover

• «

24 hours

7-mil glove set

* *

6 hours

* Times begin when item is removed from its sealed vapor bag, and stops when sealed
back in its vapor-barrior bag.

** Will protect against liquid chemical agents and vapor hazard as long as they remain
serviceable.

The key to effectiveness at any time during wear is serviceability.

Wear time may be extended by the commander when operationally necessary. See FM
3-4, Chapter 3, Chemical Vulnerability Assessment and force protection for detailed
information.

Any operational hazards may have a degrading effect on protective capabilities (i.e.,
rivercrossings. moving through swampy/wet areas, heavy rain, excessive sweating by
soldiers, POL spills while refueling, maneuver through areas where IPE is easily torn or
ripped.

Table 3-3. BDO risk assessment.

Days of wear

Risk of injury

<30

Negligible

>30

(approx 5%-ID)

>45

(approx 10%-ID)

>60

(10%-ID)

Filter Exchange Criteria

Filter exchange criteria for all NBC falters in the inventory-from the mask filters
to the filters on the simplified collective-protective eq^uipment (SCPE)-are based
on design, physical condition, climatic conmtions, and the possible agent that could
be employed. The following paragraphs discuss peacetime, transition-to-war, and
wartime exchange criteria.

Peacetime

When assessing filter exchange criteria, consider several factors. Commanders and
NBC personnel must monitor replacement schedules for pieces of NBC equipment
with filters. Peacetime exchange criteria for all filters is based on the following
conditions:

• Physical damage occurs.

3-2

FM 3-7

• Immersion in water, or filters have become water logged by other means.

• High resistance to airflow is observed.

• Directed by higher headquarters.

• Listed as unserviceable in SB 3-30-2.

NOTE: When filters are listed as unserviceable in SB 3-30-2, they still can be
used as training filters.

Transition to War

Leaders consider NBC issues when preparing for deployment. As part of that
process, commanders will determine wVn their units should remove their training
filters and replace them with filters from unit contingency stocks. The commander's
guidance should be reflected in an SOP or order. Factors for consideration on
whether to exchange filters include unit location, unit readiness/deployability alert

Table 3-4. Wartime Filter Exchange Criteria.

Climate Category

Warm

moderate

(weeks)

Hot

dry

(weeks)

Hot

humid

(weeks)

System

Filter

Cold

humid

(weeks)

• C-2/M13A2

• M40/M1 7-series

• M10A1 canister

protective mask

• Ml 8 gas

• M24/M25

• Ml 2A1 gas

protective mask

• M48

• Filter comp of

gas/particulate

Ml 3 tank GPFU

• MCPE

• Fixed site filter

gas/particulate

use in structure

• HSFC

and building

gas/particulate

• M1A1 task

• M23 gas

overpressure

• M10 gas

system

• C-22 R1 gas

• Modular collective

II Climatic Definitions

protection

equipment

• Simplified

Category

Mean temp IF)

humidity (%)

protection

equipment

Cold, humid

■15

<90

M20/M28

Warm, moderate

<60

<70

• M51 shelter

Hot, dry

<98

<27

• fixed site filter

Hot, humid

>96

>76

• GPFU M46 fixed

site filter

3-3

FM 3-7

status, last time falters were exchanged, threat, time available, and stocks available.
For example, a forward deployed unit commander, based on an enemy chemical
capability in the area of operation, directs by SOP that his or her unit install its
contingency set of filters. Alternatively, a CONUS-based unit commander
determines that the basis for installing contingency falters would occur upon an
increase in unit alert status for deployment to an area with an NBC threat.

Considerations commanders should use before initiating filter exchange include

• Mission— What is the unit mission?

• Enemy — What is the current threat assessment with respect to use of NBC
weapons? Is our unit likely to encounter attack on arrival in the operational area?

• Terrain-Where should filters be exchanged: at home station, en route, or in the
operational area?

Troop Preparation

Plan Ahead

• Check NBC defense guidance on OPLAN/OPORD; anticipate projected work
requirements in the next 24-48 hours.

• Ensure serviceability or shortfalls of equipment through precombat inspections
of NBC equipment.

• Know the most current weather data, particularly wind direction.

• Plan work/rest cycles appropriate to the environment and the mission.

• Ensure deployment and mounting of alarms.

• Use SOPs to reduce command, control, and communication tasks.

• Keep plans simple.

Think Teamwork

• Use methods of individual identification (name tags, personal items).

• Encourage "small-talk" while in MOPP.

• Pair an experienced soldier with an inexperienced "buddy" whenever possible.

• Use the buddy system to ensure that all members of the unit are regularly checked
for signs of stress and agent exposure.

Work Smart

• Provide relief from MOPP4 as soon as the mission allows.

• Use world/rest ratios, slow work rate, and minimize work intensity.

• Work in the shade whenever possible.

3-4

FM 3-7

• Enforce command drinking to reduce dehydration and heat casualties.

REMEMBER-the most motivated soldiers and leaders are the most likely to
ignore their needs for food, water, and rest.

• Use collective protection as much as possible.

• Enforce good eating, drinking, and sleeping discipline.

• Rotate jobs and people during long shifts or periods of inactivity.

• Provide relief from extreme temperatures (hot or cold) as soon as possible.

• Remember that even short breaks from total encapsulation are effective in
sustainment performance.

• Augment units or divide work between two units.

• Schedule work for a cooler time of day or at night.

MOPP Analysis

Use intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB) to determine—

• An estimate on how many enemy fire support systems are in range, where, and
what they are.

• How to support probable enemy courses of action (CO A).

• Enemy's intent and capabilities.

• Enemy tactical doctrine.

• An evaluation of arms of operation and times of interest set by the commander.

• Terrain and weather.

• Threat integration (how the enemy will fight).

Prior planning based on information provided by the chemical officer will help the
commander make sound decisions. Regular updates need to be provided to the
commander because of rapid changes in the situation.

Using IPB, provide the commander and staff:

• Detailed mformation on enemy NBC capability based on the type of weapon
systems that the enemy has available at that period of interest.

• How the enemy would employ chemicals.

• Areas of likely employment based on threat employment doctrine.

• Detailed analysis of terrain and weather in the unit's AO during each period of
interest.

• MOPP guidance for each period of interest.

• Templates of predicted fallout data that are updated as conditions change.

• Alternative actions the commander can initiate prior to the time period in question
to minimize degradation of affected units.

• Continuous monitoring of S2 message and radio traffic for any NBC-related
information that could be important to the unit's mission.

3-5

FM 3-7

MOPP System Flexibility

Flexibility is the key to providing maximum protection with the lowest risk possible
while still allowing mission accomplishment. Commanders may place all or part of
their units in different MOPP levels or authorize variations within a given toPP
level.

Soldiers may leave the overgarment jacket open at MOPPl, MOPP2, or MOPP3
allowing greater venhlahon. Soldiers may leave the hood open or rolled at MOPP3.
The various configurations of the last two MOPP levels with the hood rolled or

open are referred to as "Mopp open." Commanders decide which of these
variations to use based on the threat, temperature, and unit work intensity.

Units may be granted the flexibility to raise or lower their protective posture from
that recommended by higher headquarters. This may be done down to platoon level
and hj an element that fmds Itself isolated. If higher headquarters specifically denies
this flexibility, then protective postures may only be raised, not lowered.

WARNING

Do not use mask-only when blister or persisent nerve agents are present.

Managing Performance

• heat stress

• hunger

• thirst

• discomfort

• performance degradation

Problems

• reduced ability to see and hear

• increased feelmgs of isolation end confusion

• frustration end claustrophobia or panic

• degraded alertness and attention

Physiological factors during sustained periods of MOPP are:

Table 3-5 provides examples that can be used as a guide in estimating the work

3-6

FM 3-7

j Table 3-5. Work intensities of military tasks.

Work intensity
in MOPP
Zero— MOPP1

Activity

Work intensity in MOPP2 — MOPP4

Very light

• Lying on ground

• Standing in foxhole

• Sitting in truck

• Guard duty

• Driving truck

Very light

Light

• Cleaning rifle
•Walking, hard

surface/1 m/s, no load

• Walking, hard

surface/1 m/s, 20 kg load

• Manual of arms

• Walking, hard surface/1

m/s, 30 kg load

Light

Moderate

• Walking, loose sand/1

m/s, no load

• Walking, hard surface-

/1 .56 m/s, no load

• Calisthenics

Moderate

• Walking, hard

surf ace/ 1 .56 m/s, 20 kg
load

• Scouting patrol

• Pick and shovel

• Crawling, full pack

• Digging foxholes

• Field assaults

Heavy

• Walking, hard

surface/1 .56 m/s, 30 kg
load

• Walking, hard surface/2.0

m/s, no load

• Emplacement digging

• Walking, hard

surface/2.25 m/s, no
load

• Walking, loose sand/1.56

m/s, no load

The work intensity categories of
this table are based on metabolic
expenditures.

Very light = 105 to 175 watts
Light =172 to 325 watts
Moderate = 325 to 500 watts
Heavy = 500+ watts
Moderate = 325 to 500 watts
Heavy = 500+ watts

The weight of the chemical
protective overboots is a primary
contributor to increased work
intensity in MOPP.

3-7

FM 3-7

The following tables will provide information necessary to calculate recommended
work/rest cycles, water requirements, maximum work times and recovery times.

Table 3-6. Number of minutes of work per hour in
work/rest cycle (daylight operations).

MOPP Zero

M0PP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4

-)■ BDU

WBGT

100

103

105

100

107

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - “F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
M - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
NL - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)
na - Work/Rest Cycle Not
Feasible (See Maximum
Work Time in iTable 3-8l

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

This table pro vides, for f our levels of work
intensity (see lTable 3-5l . the number of minutes
of work per hour in work/rest schedules tailored
to the conditions specified. The remainder of
each hour should be spent in rest. This table
was prepared using the prediction capability of
the USARIEM Heat Strain Model. Assumptions
used in generating this table include: 1) troops
fully hydrated, rested, and acclimated; 2) 50%
relative humidity; 3) windspeed = 2m/s; 4)
clear skies; 5) heat casualties <5%. This guide
should not be used as a substitute for common
sense or experience. Individule requirements
may very greatly. The appearance of heat
casualties is evidence that the selected
work/rest schedule is inappropriate for the
conditions. USARIEM 1/11/91

3-8

FM 3-7

Table 3-7. Water requirements for work/rest cycles
(qt/hr) (daylight operations).

MOPP Zero

MOPP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4 -h BDU

WBGT

0.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

100

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

103

1.0

1.5

105

1.5

100

107

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
Wl - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
ML - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)
na - Work/Rest Cycle Not
Feasible (See Water
Requirements inITablel

[Hi

USARIEM 1/11/91

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

Water requirements listed are for both the
work/rest schedules specified in|Table 3-6|for
support of sustained work, and work times
unrestricted by thermal stress (unshaded
blocks), and work times unrestricted by thermal
stress. Work intensities may be estimated using
Table 2-11 Drinkina should be divided over
course of sach hour to replace water as it is lost
to sweat. The table was prepared using
prediction capabilities of the USARIEM Heat
Strain Model; assumptiong used in generating
estimates include 1) troops fully hydrated,
rested, and acclimated; 2) 50% relative
humidity; 3) windspeed 2m/s; 4) clear skies;5)
heat casualties <5%. This guidance is not a
substitute for common sense or experience;
appearance of heat casualties is evidence that
safe work limits (<5% casualties) have been
exceeded.

3-9

FM 3-7

Table 3-8. Maximum work times (minutes)
(daylight operations).

MOPP Zero

MOPP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4 +BDU

WBGT

177

155

157

142

131

114

115

110

104

100

193

103

101

203

194

105

141

140

100

107

261

118

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
M - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
NL - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)

USARIEM 1/11/91

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

This table pro vides for f our levels of work
intensity (see [Table 3-6l , the maximum number
of minutes work can be sustained in a single
work period without exceeding a greater than
5% risk of heat causualties. This table was
prepared using the prediction capability of the
USARIEM Heat Stain Model. Assumptions used
in generating this table include 1) all troops fully
hydrated, rested, and acclimatized; 2) 50%
relative humidity; 3) windspeed = 2m/s; 4)
clear skies, the guidance should not be used as
a substitute for common sense or experience.
Individual reuirements may very greatly. The
appearance of heat casualties is evidence that
the safe limits of work time have been reached.

3-10

FM 3-7

Table 3-9. Water requirements for maximum work times (qt/hr)
(daylight operations).

WIOPP Zero

M0PP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4 = BDU

WBGT

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

100

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

103

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

105

1.5

2.0

100

107

1.5

2.0

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
Wl - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
USARIEM 1/11/91

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

Amounts listed are required to support
maximum work times iniTable 3-8l estimate
work intensities usinglTable 3-5J Drinking should
be divided over course of each hour. If water
requirement is 2.0, sweat loss is greater than
maximum water absorption during an hour, and
troops will become increasingly dehydrated
regardless of amount drunk; leaders should plan
for an extended rest and rehydration period at
work completion. The table was prepared using
prediction capability of the USARIEM Heat
Strain Model; assumptions used in generating
estimates include 1) troops fully hydrated,
rested, and acclimatized; 2) 50% relative
humidity; 3) windspeed = 2 m/s; 4) clear skies;
5) heat casualties <5%. This guidance is not a
substitute for common sense or experience;
appearance of heat casualties is evidence that
safe work limits (<5% casualties) have been
exceeded.

3-11

FM 3-7

Table 3- 10. Recovery time estimates after maximum work
(hours of rest in the shade).

WBGT

MOPP

Zero

MOPP4

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (°F)
As Measured in shade (If Only Full Sun
WBGT Is Available, Subtract 5°F WBGT
Before Using This Table)

Ta - Ambient Temperature (Dry Bulb -°F)
MOPP Zero - Battle Dress Uniform Only
MOPP4 - Battle Dress Overgarment and
Mask (Closed)

NCP - No Cooling Possible Under These
Conditions - Seek Cooler Location and/or
Remove BDO

NOTES AND INSTRUCTIONS:

This table provides the number of hours
rest in the shade that should be required
after working the maximum work times
specified inITable 3-81 oH 3-1 3J This table

0.25

1.0

0.25

1.0

0.5

1.5

0.5

1 .5

0.5

2.0

0.5

2.0

0.5

3.0

0.5

4.0

0.5

6.0

1.0

15.0

100

1,0

NCP

was prepared using the cooling capacity
equations of the USARIEM Heat Strain
Model. Assumptions used in generating
this table include 1) troops fully hydrated
and acclimatized; 2) 50% relative
humidity; 3) windspeed = 2m/s; 4) no
solar load; 5) recovery of normal body
temperature. This guidance should not be
used as a substitute for common sense
or experience. Individual requirements
may vary greatly.

USARIEM 1/11/91

102

1 .0

104

1.5

106

2.0

109

8.0

111

NCP

100

113

3-12

FM 3-7

Table 3- 1 1. Number of minutes of work per hour in work/rest
cycle (night operations).

MOPP Zero

MOPP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4

+ BDU

WBGT

100

102

104

106

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
M - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
NL - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)
na - Work/Rest Cycle Not
Feasible (See Maximum
Work Time in iTable 3-13|

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

This table pr ovides, for f our levels of work
intensity (sea l Table 3-S| , the number of minutes
of work per hour in work/rest schedules tailored
to the conditions specified. The remainder of
each hour should be spent in rest. This table
was prepaired using the prediction capability of
the USARIEM Heat Strain Model. Assumptions
used in generating this table include: 1) troops
fully hydrated, rested, and acclimated; 2) 50%
relative humidity; 3) windspeed = 2m/s; 4)
clear skies; 5) heat casualties <5%. This guide
should not be used as a substitute for common
sense or experience. Individual requirements
may vary greatly. The appearance of heat
casualties is evidence that the selected
work/rest schedule is inappropriate for the
conditions. USARIEM 1/11/91

3-13

FM 3-7

Table 3-12. Water requirements for work/rest cycles (qt/hr!
(night operations).

MOPP Zero

MOPP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4 BDU

WBGT

0.25

0.5

1.0

0.25

1.0

0.25

1..0

1.0

0.25

1.0

0.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

0.25

0.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

0.25

0.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1..5

1.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

1.0

1 .0

1.0

1 .0

1.0

0.5

1.0

1 .0

1.0

1 .0

1.0

1 .0

100

0.5

1.0

102

1.0

104

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

106

1.0

1.5

1 .0

1.0

1.5

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
M - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
NL - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)
na - Work/Rest Cycle Not
Feasible (See Maximum
Work Time in Mable 3-1 st
USARIEM 1/10/91

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES;

Amounts lis ted are requ ired to support work/rest
schedules in iTable 3-1 1| ; drinking should be
divided over course of each hou r to replace
water as it is lost to sweat. Use lTable 3-141 to
determine water requ ired to suppo rt maximum
work times shown in iTable 3-1 3.1 The table was
prepared using prediction capabilities of the
USARIEM Heat Strain Model; assumptions used
in generating estimates include 1) troop fully
hydrated, rested, and acclimatized; 2) 50%
relative humidity; 3) windspeed = 2 m/s; 4) no
solar load; 5) heat casualties <5%. This
guidance is not a substitute for common sense
or experience;appearance of heat casualties is
evidence that safe work limits (<5% casualties)
have been exceeded (that the selected
work/rest cycle and/or water guidance is
inappropriate for the conditions).

3-14

FM 3-7

Table 3- 13. Maximum work times (minutes) (night operations).

MOPP Zero

MOPP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4

+ BDU

WBGT

188

119

206

168

139

144

133

107

121

115

100

102

104

106

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity
L - Light Work Intensity
M - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
NL - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)

USARIEM 1/10/91

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

This table p rovides for four levels of work
intensity (se | Table 3-5| , the maximum number
of minutes of work that can be sustained in a
single work period without exceeding a greater
than 5% risk of heat casualties. This table was
prepared using the prediction capability of the
USARIEM Heat Strain Model. Assumptions used
in generating this table include 1) all troops fully
hydrated, rested, and acclimatized; 2) 50%
relative humidity; 3) windspeed = 2 m/s; 4) no
solar load. The guidance should not be used as a
substitute for common sense or experience.
Individual requirements may vary greatly. The
appearance of heat casualties is evidence that
the safe limits of work time have been reached.

3-15

FM 3-7

Table 3- 14. Water requirements for maximum times (qt/hrj
(night operations).

MOPP Zero

MOPP4 +
Underwear

MOPP4 + BDU

WBGT

0.25

0.5

1.0

0.25

1.0

1.5

2.0

0.25

1.0

1.5

2.0

0.25

1.0

1.5

0.5

1.0

2.0

0.5

1.0

2.0

0.25

0.5

1.0

1.5

0.5

1.0

2.0

0.5

1.0

2.0

0.25

0.5

1.0

1.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

0.5

1 .0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.5

2.0

100

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

2.0

1.0

2.0

102

1.0

2.0

.20

1.0

2.0

1.0

2.0

104

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

106

1.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

KEY TO TABLE:

WBGT - Wet Bulb Globe
Temperature (°F)

Ta - Ambient Temperature
(Dry Bulb - °F)

VL - Very Light Work
Intensity

L - Light Work Intensity
M - Moderate Work
Intensity

H - Heavy Work Intensity
BDU - Battle Dress Uniform
NL - No Limit (Continuous
Work Possible)

USARIEM 1/10/91

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES:

Amounts listed are required to support
maximum work times inITable 3-131: drinkina
should be divided over course of each hour. If
water requirement is 2.0, sweat loss is greater
than maximum water absorption during an
hour, and troops will become increasingly
dehydrated regardless of amount drunk; leaders
should plan for an extended rest and
rehydration period at work completion (see
Table 3-IOF This table was prepared usina
prediction capability of the USARIEM Heat
Strain Model; assumptions used in generating
estimates include 1) troops fully hydrated,
rested, and acclimatized; 2) 50% relative
humidity; 3) windspeed = 2 m/s; 4) no solar
load; 5) heat casualties <5%. This guidance is
not a substitute for common sense or
experience; appearance of heat casualties is
evidence that safe work limits (casualties) have
been exceeded.

3-16

FM 3-7

Table 3-15.

Wind speed effects on arrival time of chemical
agents.

Wind speed

Time before agent reaches

Distance between unit and

(kmph)

unit location (seconds)

detectors (meters)

108

150

Table 3-16. Detectors required for different size unit fronts.

Unit front size (in meters)

Number of detector units

1—35

37—372

373—708

709—1.044

1,045—1,380

Table 3-17. MSA 1 alarm battery life.

Average air temperature

Maximum number of 12-hour missions

°F

°c

BB501/U

BA3517/U

1 20-90

50-32

-4

-13

Do not use below
20° F (-4°C)

-17

-10 to -40

-22 to -40

NOTE: If battery fails or you have no batteries, refer to TM 3-251 -BD for a field expedient
method of powering the alarm.

3-17

FM 3-7

3-18

FM 3-7

CAM

There are eight bar indicators: one to three bars = low vapor hazard, four to six
bars = low vapor hazard, four to six bars = high vapor hazard, and seven to eight
bars = very high levels of vapor hazard.

Table 3- 18. Common Interferents for the CAM |

Interferent

G bar response

H bar response

M258A1 decon kit

High

M280 OKIE

High

DS2

Low

Insect repellent

Low-Very high

Broke fluid

High-Very high

Very high

Cleaner, general purpose

High

Burning kerosene

High

Breath mints

High

Gasoline vapor

Low

Burning grass

Low-High

Low

1 Burning gas

Low

Unmasking Procedures
Without detection equipment

1. In a shady area, have one or two soldiers take a deep breath, hold it, and break
their mask seals for 15 seconds with their eyes open.

2. Have them clear and reseal masks. Observe them for 10 minutes for symptoms.

3. If no symptoms appear, have the same soldiers break their mask seals, take two
or three breaths, clear and reseal their masks. Observe them for 10 minutes for
symptoms.

4. If no symptoms appear have the same soldiers unmask for 5 minutes and then
remask. If no symptoms appear in 10 minutes, it is safe to give the all clear signal
and unmask.

5. Continue to observe the soldiers in ease delayed symptoms develop.

With M256 or M256A1 Detector Kit

1. Test with the detector kit.

3-19

FM 3-7

2. If the test is negative, have one or two soldiers move to a shady area if possible,
and unmask for S^minutes. Have the soldiers remask. Observe them for 10 minutes
for symptoms.

3. If no symptoms appear, it is safe to give the all clear signal and unmask. The
senior leader present may ask higher headquarters for permission.

4. Continue to watch soldiers for possible delayed symptoms.

Using Estimated Wait Times Before Executing
Open/Unmasking Time Tables

NOTE: All tables are ICT 5 risk level (Incapacitating dosage of vapor sufficient
to disable 5% of exposed soldiers).

Formula Procedure

a. Variables

P = Percent of worst case time remaining
0 = Original worst case time from table
N = New worst case time from table
T = Time between original estimate and weather change
U = Updated worst case time

b. Procedure.

Read 0 directly from table
Weather change:

P= (0-T)/0

U = PxN

Weather changes again:

Set 0=U

Set T = time since last weather change

Repeat as required

3-20

FM 3-7

Table 3- 19. Estimated worst case MOPP open times.

Agent: GA/GF
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F|

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

60-1-

Neutral

60 -H

60 -h

Stable

60 +

60 -t-

1 1-24

Unstable

Neutral

Stable

> =25

Neutral

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open time— information in the table indicates the time for GA/GF to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin effects. DO
NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do not remove.

3. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. To get times for grass terrain, multiply numbers In the chart
by 0.4. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

4. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

3-21

FM 3-7

Table 3-20. Estimated worst case unmasking times.

Agent: GA/GF
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed

Stability

Temperature (°F)

KM PH

100

110

120

Unstable

60 -t-

60 +

0-10

Neutral

60 -H

60 +

Stable

60-1-

60 +

Unstable

60 +

^ 8

11-24

Neutral

60 +

Stable

60 +

> =25

Neutral

60 +

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open time-information in the table indicates the time for GA/GF to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin effects. DO
NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing: do not remove.

3. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. To get times for grass terrain, multiply numbers in the chart
by 0.4. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

4. See FM 3-6 for defination of stability categories.

3-22

FM 3-7

Table 3-2 1. Estimated worst case MOPP open unmasking

times.

Agent: GA/GF
Terrain: CARC

The numnbers In the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F)

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

1.25

0.75

0.50

0.25

Neutral

1.50

1.0

0.50

0.25

Stable

1.50

1.0

0.50

0.25

11-24

Unstable

0.75

0.50

0.25

Neutral

0.75

0.50

0.25

Stable

1.0

0.50

0.25

> =25

Neutral

0.50

0.25

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open/unmasking time— information in the table indicates the time
for GA/GF to weather below 5 percent incidence of Incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin
and inhalation. DO NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING
PROCEDURES! DO NOT UNMASK WITHOUT FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do not remove.

4. If soldiers are working on vehicles, avoid skin contact with the vehicle.

5. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

6. For planning, ensure the following steps are taken:

a. Remove as much earth and debris as possible from the CARC painted surface and
conduct operator spraydown.

b. Above times are estimated weathering times for CARC painted surfaces; confine
contamination-free status by using detection devices before MOPP reduction.

c. If possible, move uncontaminated equipment from the contaminated area.

d. Anything not painted with CARC (such as concrete, plastics, and weapons) must
be individually checked for contamination.

3-23

FM 3-7

Table 3-22. Estimated worst case MOPP open times.

Agent: HD
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F|

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

60-1-

60 +

Neutral

60 -t-

60 +

Stable

60 +

11-24

Unstable

60 +

Neutral

60 +

Stable

60 +

> =25

Neutral

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open time— information in the table indicates the time for HD to
weather below 5 percent incidence of Incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin effects. To get
times for grass terrain, multiply numbers in the chart by 0.4. DO NOT OPEN MOPP
WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do not remove.

3. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

4. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

3-24

FM 3-7

Table 3-23. Estimated worst case unmasking times.

Agent: HD
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F) |

100

110

120 1

0-10

Unstable

60-1-

60 -h

Neutral

60 -f

60-1-

60 +

Stable

60-1-

60 -H

60-1-

60 +

1 1-24

Unstable

60-1-

Neutral

60-1-

60 -H

Stable

60-1-

60-t-

> =25

Neutral

NOTES:

1 . Worst case unmasking time— information In the table indicates the time for HD to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to Inhalation. To get times for
grass terrain, multiply numbers in the chart by 0.4. DO NOT UNMASK WITHOUT
FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES!

2. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. TDO NOT INTERPOLATE!.

3. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

3-25

FM 3-7

Table 3-24. Estimated worst case
MOPP open/unmasking times.

Agent; HD
Terrain: CARC

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F|

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

Neutral

Stable

11-24

Unstable

Neutral

Stable

> =25

Neutral

'NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open/unmaskIng time— information in the table Indicates the time
for HD to weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin and
inhalation. DO NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!
DO NOT UNMASK WITHOUT FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do rrot remove.

3. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

4. If soldiers are working on vehicles, avoid skin contact with the vehicle.

5. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

6. For planning, ensure the following steps are taken;

a. Remove as much earth and debris as possible from the CARC painted surface and
conduct operator spraydown.

b. Above times are estimated weathering times for CARC painted surfaces; confine
contamination-free status by using detection devices before MOPP reduction.

c. If possible, move uncontaminated equipment from the contaminated area.

3-26

FM 3-7

Table 3-25. Estimated worst case
MOPP open/unmasking times.

Agent: VX
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°FI

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

60 -F

Neutral

60 -F

Stable

60 -F

11-24

Unstable

60 -F

Neutral

60 -F

Stable

60 -F

> =25

Neutral

60 -F

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open time— infortriation in the table indicates the time for VX to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin and inhalation.
DO NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES! DO NOT
UNMASK WITHOUT FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do not remove.

4. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

3-27

FM 3-7

Table 3-26. Estimated worst case
MOPP open/unmasking times.

Agent: VX
Terrain: CARC

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed

—

Stability

Temperature (“FI

KM PH

100

120

Unstable

8.25

5.25

3.5

2.25

1.5

0.75

0-10

Neutral

3.25

1.25

0.75

Stable

9.25

3.75

2.5

1.5

Unstable

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

0.25|

1 1-24

Neutral

3.25

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25 1

Stable

5.75

3.5

2.25

1.5

0.75

0.5

0.25|

> =25

Neutral

3.25

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

0.25 1

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open/unmasking time-information in the table indicates the time
for VX to weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor^on-skin and
inhalation. DO NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!
DO NOT UNMASK WITHOUT FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing: do not remove.

3. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

4. If soldires are working on vehicles, avoid skin contact with the vehicles.

5. See FM 3*6 for definition of stability categories.

6. For planning, ensure the following steps are taken:

a. Remove as much earth and debris as possible from the CARC painted surface and
conduct operator spraydown.

b. Above times are estimated weathering times for CARC painted surfaces: confine
contamination*free status by using detection devices before MOPP reduction.

c. If possible, move uncontaminated equipment from the contaminated area.

d. Anything not painted with CARC Isuch as concrete, plastics, and weapons) must
be individually checked for contamination.

3-28

FM 3-7

Table 3-27. Estimated worst case MOPP open times.

Agent: TGD
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F)

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

Neutral

Stable

11-24

Unstable

Neutral

Stable

> =25

Neutral

NOTES;

1 . Worst case MOPP open time— information in the table indicates the time for TGD to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-on-skin effects. DO
NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do not remove.

4. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

3-29

FM 3-7

Table 3-28. Estimated worst case UNMASKING times.

Agent: TGD
Terrain: Sand

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F)

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

Neutral

60 -F

Stable

60 -F

11-24

Unstable

Neutral

Stable

> =25

Neutral

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open time— information in the table indicates the time for TGD to
weather below 6 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-on*skin effects. DO
NOT UNMASK WITHOUT FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES!

2. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. To get times for grass terrain, multiply numbers in the chart
by 0.4. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

3. See FM 3-6 for definition of stability categories.

3-30

FM 3-7

Table 3-29. Estimated worst case MOPP open times.

Agent: TGD
Terrain: CARC

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature l”F)

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

1.75

0.75

0.5

0.25

Neutral

1.75

0.75

0.5

0.25

Stable

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

n-24

Unstable

0.75

0.5

0.25

Neutral

0.75

0.5

0.25

Stable

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

> =25

Neutral

0.75

0.5

0.25

NOTES:

1 . Worst case MOPP open time-4nformatlon in the table indicates the time for TGD to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor*on-skin effects. DO
NOT OPEN MOPP WITHOUT FOLLOWING MOPP OPENING PROCEDURES!

2. Opening the MOPP suit— unzip and/or unsnap MOPP clothing; do not remove.

3. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. DO NOT INTERPOLATE!

4. If soldiers are working on vehicles, avoid skin contact with the vehicles.

5. See FM 3*6 for defination of stability categories.

6. For planning, ensure the following steps are taken:

a. Remove as much earth and debris as possible from the CARC painted surface and
conduct operator spraydown.

b. Above times are estimated weathering times for CARC painted surfaces; confine
contamination- free status by using detection devices before MOPP reduction.

c. If possible, move uncontaminated equipment from the contaminated area.

d. Anything not painted with CARC (such as concrete, plastics, and weapons) must
be individually checked for contamination.

3-31

FM 3-7

Table 3-30. Estimated' worst case unmasking times.

Agent: TGD
Terrain: CARC

The numnbers in the chart represent hours.

Wind Speed
KMPH

Stability

Temperature (°F)

100

110

120

0-10

Unstable

3.25

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

Neutral

3.25

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

Stable

3.5

2.25

1.5

0.5

0.25

11-24

Unstable

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

Neutral

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

Stable

2.25

1.25

0.5

0.25

> =25

Neutral

1.25

0.75

0.5

0.25

NOTES;

1 . Worst case unmasking time-4nformation in the table indicates the time for TGD to
weather below 5 percent incidence of incapacitation due to vapor-omskin effects. DO
NOT UNMASK WITHOUT FOLLOWING UNMASKING PROCEDURES!
i 2. When the actual temperature is between two listed temperatures, enter the table
with the lower temperature. TDO NOT INTERPOLATE!

3. If soldiers are working on vehicles, avoid skin contact with the vehicles.

4. See FM 3-6 for defination of stability categories.

5. For planning, ensure the following steps are taken:

a. Remove as much earth and debris as possible from the CARC painted surface and
conduct operator spraydown.

b. Above times are estimated weathering times for CARC painted surfaces; confine
contamination-free status by using detection devices before MOPP reduction.

c. If possible, move uncontaminated equipment from the contaminated area.

d. Anything not painted with CARC (such as concrete, plastics, and weapons) must
be individually checked for contamination.

3-32

FM 3-7

Decontamination Resources Available
at Each Level of Organization

Individual Soldiers

One M258A1 or M291 skin decon kit.

One canteen of water.

Operators and crews

One onboard MU decon apparatus or M13 decon apparatus, portable (DAP), for
major pieces of equipment.

Soap and water, M258A1 or M291 kits as needed for decon of sensitive or
ulnerable surfaces.

HTH mixture or bleach.

M280 or M295 decon kit.

Company Level

One 50-pound drum of STB.

Two 5-gallon pails of DS2 or 2 M13 DAPs.

Six long-handled brushes.

300 plastic garbage bags.

Six 3-gallon buckets.

Six large sponges.

Two 32-gallon galvanized trash cans (from mess section).

Two immersion heaters (from mess section).

Jattalion PDDE Crews

Power-driven decontaminating equipment (PDDE) or light weight decon system
LDS).

Basic load liquid detergent.

Chemical Company Decon Squad

Ten 5-gallon pails of DS2, or MB DAPs, per M12A1 (lAW CTA 50-970).

Twenty-six 50-pound drums of STB per M12A1 (lAW CTA 50-970).
Power-driven decon equipment.

3-33

FM 3-7

• Basic load of liquid detergent.

Chemical Company Decon Platoon

• 5-gallon pails of DS2 or M13 DAPs, per M12A1 or M17 LDS (lAW CTA
50-970).

• 50-pound drums of STB per M12A1 (lAW CTA 50-970).

• Power-driven decon equipment or M17 light decon system (dual purpose platoon
only).

• Basic load of decontaminants.

Levels of Decontamination

There are three levels of decon: immediate, operational, and thorough.

Immediate Decon minimizes casualties, saves lives, and limits the spread of
contamination. Immediate decon is carried out by individuals upon becoming
contaminated. There are three immediate techniques: skin decon, personnel
wipedown, and operator's spray down.

Operational Decon sustains operations, reduces the contact hazard, and limits the
spread of contamination to eliminate the necessity or reduce the duration of wearing
MOPP gear. Operational decon Is carried by individual and/or units. It is restricted
to specific parts of operationally essential equipment/material and/or working areas,
in order to minimize contact and transfer hazards and to sustain operations. Further
decon may be required to reduce contamination to negligible risk levels. There are
two operational decon tehniques: vehicle washdown and MOPP gear exchange.

Thorough Decon reduces or eliminates the need for individual protective clothing.
Thorough decon is carried out by units with assistance from chemical units to reduce
contammation on personnel, equipment/materlal, and/or working areas to the lowest
possible level (negligible risk) to permit the reduction or removal of individual
protective equipment and maintain operations with minimal degradation. This may
include decontamination of terrain as required. There are three thorough decon
techniques: detailed troop decon, detailed equipment decon, and detailed aircraft
decon.

The three levels of decon— immediate, operational, and thorough-are presented as
part of this chapter to explain the seven standard decon techniques used for most
decon operations. Your chemical officer or NCO advises on efficient ways to
conduct operational or thorough decon operations. For example, conducting decon
operations might require the use of one or a combination of the seven decon
techniques.

3-34

FM 3-7

Table 3-31. Comparison data for decon types.

Level

Technique

Best Start
Time*

Done By

Gains

Immediate

Skin Decon

Before 1
minute

Individual

Stops agent
from

penetrating

Personal

Wipedown

Within 1 5

Individual or
Crew

Operator

Spraydown

minutes

Operational

MOPP Gear
Exchange * *

Within 6 hours

Unit

Possible
temporary
relief from
MOPP4. Limit
liquid agent
spread.

Vehicle

Washdown * * *

Battalion Crew
or decon PLT
(-)

Thorough

Detailed
Equipment/Air-
craft Decon

When mission
allows

reconstitution

Decon platoon

Probable

long-term

MOPP

reduction with
minimum risk

Detailed Troop
Decon

Unit

* The techniques become increasinoly less effective the longer they are delayed.

** Performance degredatlon and risk assessment need to be considered when
exceeding 6 hours. See FM 3-4, BOO risk assessment.

* * * Vehicle washdown is most effective if started within 1 hour, but will often have to
be delayed for logistical reasons.

3-35

FM 3-7

Operational Decontamination

Table 3-32. Operational decon responsibility matrix.

Unit

Phase

Task

Contaminated

Unit

Battaiion

PDDE

Crew

Battalion

Brigade

Planning

Preparation

Request

Coordination

Site Selection

Rendezvous

Site Setup

Execution

Site Control
and Security

Processing

Site

Clearance

Cleanup

Marking and
Reporting

Legend: Pa: Primary responsibility, S = Supporting responsibility

3-36

FM 3-7

1 Table 3-33. Sample operational decon checklist.

Task

Procedure

Decon

assessmnet

If the battalion has no decon assets, request assistance from
the next higher headquarters for needed support.

Coordination

Battalion chemical section conducts coordination with |

contaminated unit on where to meet. The decon should be
done between one to six hours after becoming contaminated.

Site selection

The contaminated unit chooses the decon site in coordination
with the battalion. Consider the following items when
selecting a site:

• Off main route but easy access

• Large enough area, (1 00 square meters per site for a
squad-size element)

• Good overhead concealment

• water source, (plan for 100 gallons per vehicle)

• Good drainage

Rendezvous

Ensure the battalion decon crew knows where to meet the
contaminated unit, and site location for set up.

Site setup

Ensure the PDDE are positioned properly and ready to
dispense hot, soapy water. Ensure that the contaminated unit
operates the MOPP gear exchange at the same time as the
vehicle washdown.

Site control
and security

Ensure the drivers of the contaminated vehicles know when to
move into position at the washdown location. Ensure the
contaminated unit has provided site security.

Processing

Ensure the decon NCOIC is processing vehicles at a rate of
three minutes per vehicle. Also ensure soldiers are going
through the MOPP gear exchange, if needed.

Cleanup

Decon NCOIC ensures the MOPP gear exchange area is
cleaned up.

Marking and
reporting

Decon NCOIC has his team properly mark the decon site and
send NBC 5 report forward.

3-37

FM 3-7

Table 3-34. Unsupported one-lane washdown.

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedure

Step 1. Button up
vehicle/equipment.
Performing this step
prevents contamination from
being washed or splashed
into uncontaminated areas.

Risks. Failure to perform
this step may result in
contamination being washed
into uncontaminated areas,
subjecting crew and
maintenance personnel to
hazards.

None

Equipment crew/operators
close all access doors,
hatches, windows, and
other openings before
washdown. Put muzzle
covers on weapons.
Nonessential personnel can
dismount and begin MOPP
gear exchange. They then
act as "buddies” for
essential crew/operators.
NOTE: Ensure that vehicles
equipped with over
pressurized systems are
operating with system on.

Step 2 Washdown
vehicle/equipment.
Performing this step limits
spread of contamination,
minimizes hazards, and
enhances weathering to
make detailed equipment
decon easier and faster.

Risks. If you do not do this
step, expect casualties from
contact hazards. Spreading
or transferring the hazard
most likely will increase.
Weathering of the hazard
most likely will be slowed.
You will not be able to
reduce MOPP level
immediately because an
after-vehicle washdown
check for contamination is
not made. (See decon in
combat.l Chapter 1| for
when to unmask for brief
periods.)

Use for all forms of
contamination:

• One PDDE.

• Adequate fuel for water
heater (if available} and
pump unit.

• Adequate water supply
(about 100 to 150 gallons
per vehicle}.

• Liquid detergent to mix
with water (see Appendix J).

Chemical, biological, and
radiological: Two soldiers
from the battalion PDDE
crew operates washdown
equipment. A third soldier
supervises. Soldiers must
wear toxicological agent
protective (TAP) aprons or
wet weather gear worn over
MOPP gear to keep MOPP
gear from becoming
saturated. Soldiers spray
hot, soapy water (under
pressure} from PDDE onto
equipment surfaces. This
removes, neutralizes, or
destroys most of the gross
contamination trapped in dirt
and mud. Unheated soapy
water or plain water may be
used, if necessary, but is
less effective than hot,
soapy water. Start at the
top decks of vehicles and
wash downward.

Step 3. Vehicles move into
assembly area.

Exchange chemical suit.

3-38

FM 3-7

STEP 3

ASSEMBLY AREA
MOPP GEAR
EXCHANGE

ALLOW 50 METERS FROM THE
LAST WASHDOWN POINT TO
THE ASSEMBLY AREA

Unsupported one-lane washdown with one lightweight decontaminating system {shown below)i
and wKh two lightweight decontaminating systems ( above)

STEP 3

ASSEMBLY AREA

MOPP GEAR
EXCHANGE

Figure 3-2. Unsupported one-lane washdown.

3-39

FM 3-7

Table 3-35. Unsupported two lane washdown

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedures

Preaction: Unit tactically disperses in
concealed marshalling area. Makes
contact with control point for final
orders. Control point monitors and
supervises rate of movement into lanes
to prevent congestion.

Watch

One soldier from the battalion decon
crew. Every three minutes two vehicles
will be released from the marshalling
area. On signal vehicles will proceed to
the decon station in their respective
lane.

Step 1. Button up vehicle/equipment.
Performing this step prevents
contamination from being washed or
splashed into uncontaminated areas.
This step applies for both lanes.

Risks. Failure to perform this step may
result in contamination being washed
into uncontaminated areas, subjecting
crew and maintenance personnel to
hazards.

None

Equipment crew/operators close all
access doors, hatches, windows, arxf
other openings before washing down.
Put muzzle cover on weapons.
Nonessential personnel can dismount
and begin MOPP gear exchange upon
commander's orders. They they can
act as "buddies" for essential
crew/operators.

NOTE:: Ensure that vehicles equipped
with overpressurized systems are
operating with the systems on. No
MOPP gear exchange is required if
crew/operators are inside vehicle and
have not been exposed to any
contamination.

Step 2. Wash down
vehicles/equipment. Crews/drivers
remain in vehicles. Sprayers use cross
diagonal technique for two to three
minutes, removing gross
contamination. This technique avoids
water splashing the crew members.
Performing this step limits the spread
of contamination, minimizes hazard,
and enhances weathering to make
detailed equipment decon easier and
faster.

• Adequate fuel
for water heater
(If available) and
pump unit.

• Adequate
water supply
(about 100 to

1 50 gallons per
vehicle).

• Liquid

detergent to mix
with water (see
tpendix F).

;| )TE: Use Ml 2
^ )DA, Ml 7
LDS, 65-GPM
pump,
fire-fighting
equipment,
and/or

combination.

Chemical, biological, and radiological:
Two soldiers per lane from the
battalion decon crew wash down
equipment. A third soldier supervises.
Soldiers must wear TAP aprons or wet
weather gear over MOPP gear to keep
MOPP gear from becoming saturated.
Soldiers spray hot, soapy water (under
pressure) from PDDE onto equipment
surfaces. This removes, neutralizes, or
destroys most of the gross
contamination trapped in dirt and mud.
Unheated soapy water or pipain water
may be used, if necessary, but is less
effective than hot, soapy water. Start
at the top decks of vehicles and wash
downward.

Step 3. Vehicles move into assembly
area. MOPP gear exchange Is
determined by the commander

Exchange MOPP suit.

3-40

FM 3-7

Figure 3-3. Unsupported two lane washdown

3-41

FM 3-7

Table 3-36. Supported two-lane washdown.

Steps and Risks

Preaction: Unit tactically
disperses in a concealed
marshalling area. Make contact
with control point for final
instructions. Control point
monitors and supervises rate of
movement into lanes to prevent
congestion.

Step 1. Button up
vehicie/equipment. Performing
this step prevents
contamination from being
washed or splashed into
uncontaminated areas. This
step applies to both lanes.

Risks. Failure to perform this
step may result in
contamination being washed
into uncontaminated areas,
subjecting crew and
maintenance personnel to
hazards.

Step 2. Wash down
vehicles/equipment.
Crews/drivers remain in
vehicles. Vehicles stop by the
first wash. Sprayers decon half
of the vehicle/equipment facing
their side, for one and one-half
minutes. Vehicles then move to
the second wash where
sprayers will decontaminate the
other half of the
vehicie/equipment for one and
one-half minutes.

Step 3. Vehicles move into
assembly area. MOPPgear
exchange is determined by the
commander.

Equipment

• 3 Ml 7 LOS.

• Adequate fuel for
water heater and
pump units.

• Asequate water
supply (approximately
100 to 150 gallons
per wash point per
vehiclel.

• Liquid detergents to
mix with water.
NOTE: Use Ml 2
PDDE, Ml 7 LDS.
65-GPM pump,
fire-fighting
equipment, and/or
combination.

Procedures

One soldier from the battalion
decon crew required. Two
vehicles will be released from
the marshalling area every three
minutes. On signal vehicles will
proceed to the decon station in
theor respective lane.

Equipment crew/operators close
all access doors, hatches,
windows, and other openings
before washdown. Put muzzle
covers on weapons.

Nonessential personnel can
dismount and begin MOPP gear
exchange, upon commander's
orders. They then act as
’’buddies" for essential
crew/operators.

NOTE: Ensure that vehicles
equipped with overpressurized
systems are operating with
systems on.

Chemical, biological, and
radiological: Four soldiers from
the chemical decon platoon
wash down equipment. A fifth
soldier supervises. Soldiers
must wear TAP aprons or wet
weather gear worn over MOPP
gear to keep from becoming
saturated. Soldiers spray hot,
soapy water (under pessure)
from PDDE onto equipment
surfaces. Start at the top decks
of vehicles and wash downward.

Exchange MOPP suit.

3-42

FM 3-7

MOPP Gear Exchange

Step

Procedure

Decontaminate gear.

Prepare for Decontamination.

Decontaminate hood

Remove overgarments and overshoes.

Remove gloves.

Put on overgarments.

Put on overboots and gloves.

Secure hood.

Table 3-37. MOPP gear exchange (buddy team method).

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedures

STEP 1 DECON GEAR.

Performing this step removes
gross contamination from
individual gear (weapon, helmet,
load-bearing equipment, and
mask carrier).

RISKS. If you do not do this step,
you will transfer contamination
from your individual gear to your
new MOPP gear. You will have to
change MOPP gear within 24
hours, even if you do not receive
any more contamination. If
chemical/biological contamination
is not removed from individual
gear, the weathering process will
be delayed (see FM 3-4).
if radiological contamination is
not removed, your radiation
exposure may increase over time,
prolonging the time you must
remain In MOPP gear.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:

• Four
long-handled
brushes.

• Large piece of
plastic (poncho or
similar material)

CHEMICAL/BIO-

LOGICAL:

• One 5-gallon
container STB dry
mix.

RADIOLOGICAL:

None.

CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL: If the
personnel armor system, ground
troops (PAS6T) helmet is worn,
remove and discard the chemical
protective helmet cover. Brush or
rub STB into personal equipment.
Brush or rub STB dry mix onto
hose if wearing the M24,

M2SA1, or M42 mask. Gently
shake off any excess. Set aside
gear on an uncontaminated
surface.

RADIOLOGICAL: Shake or brush
contamination off.

STEP 2. PREPARE FOR DECOISI.
Performing this step allows the
soldier to remove his overgarment
trousers and boots later. It also
allows for the hood to be rolled
easier.

NOTE: A soldier can do this step
by himself or with the help of his
buddy.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:
• Cutting tool.

Unfasten the shoulder straps on
the hood and pull them over the
shoulder and reattach them to the
Velcro ® fastener. Loosen
drawcord on hood of protective
mask. Remove M9 paper. Untie
drawcords on trouser legs of the
garment, wizip the trouser legs,
and roll a cuff in each leg. Ensure
that the cuff does not come over
the top of the overboot. Unfasten
or cut fasteners on green vinyl
overboots or untie/cut the laces
on the protective overboot.

3-44

FM 3-7

Table 3-37. MOPP gear exchange (buddy team method!
(Continued!.

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedures

STEP 3 DECON HOOD.

Performing this step removes the
gross contamination from the
mask and hood. The squad leader
and companion or two personnel
from the squad stand in the
center of a circle. They supervise
the other teams while they go
through the technique themselves.

RISKS: CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL
CONTAMINATION. If this step is
not done, small amounts of
contamination may still be on the
mask and hood. You will risk
spreading contamination to your
skin during the undressing.

RISKS: RADIOLOGICAL
CONTAMINATION. If you do not
do this step, excessive radiation
exposure could occur from
contaminants on the hood and
mask. You also risk spreading
contamination to your skin during
the undressing.

CHEMICAL/BIO-

LOGICAL:

• One M258A1
or two M295 skin
decontaminating
kits per person.

RADIOLOGICAL:

• Three

containers labout
3*g alien
capacity)

• Two sponges.

• Soapy water.

• Rinse water.

• Paper towels or
similar drying
material.

• One IDK kit per
person, if water is
not available.

CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL: Using
the M258A1 or M295 skin decon
kit, decontaminate the hood and
exposed parts of your buddy's
mask. Start with the eye lens
outserts, wiping from the top
down. Then decon the rest of the
hood, wiping from the top of the
head to the bottom of the hood.
When you have finished
decontaminating your buddy's
mask, decontaminate your gloves
in preparation for rollor>g your
buddy's hood. (NOTE: When
decontaminating the mask, do not
press so hard that you break your
buddy's seal). Leave the zipper on
the lx>od closed. Grab the straps
where they connect to the back
of the hood and lift the hood
straight up of the buddy's
shoulders. Pull the hood up and
over the head until the bottom of
the back of the hood is to the top
of the eye lens outserts, but not
over. Check for contamination on
the underside of the hood edges
and decon if necessary. Roll your
buddy's hood. Put one tuck
(about two inches) on the
forehead, then begin rolling at
both temples simultaneously by
tucking in with the thumbs as you
roll toward the bottom of the
zipper.

M40 MASK. The contaminated
soldier holds the mask firmly in
place to avoid breaking the seal.
Make the rolls from each side of
the hood come to a point at the
bottom of the zipper, forming a V.
Put a half twist in the V, forming
two sides into a tail. Then tuck
the tails between the upper part
of the canister and mask. (Tie tail
over and under the hose of the
M42.)

(Step 3| continues on next page.)

3-45

FM 3-7

Table 3-37. MOPP gear exchange (buddy team method)
(Continued).

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedures

STEP 3. DECON HOOD
(continued)

RADIOLOGICAL: Wipe your
buddy's mask and hood with
sponge dipped in hot, soapy
water. Rinse with sponge dipped
in clean water. Dry with paper
towels or rags. The buddy does
his or her own gloves. Cool,
soapy water is not as effective
for removing contamination, but
can be used if you scrub longer.
Use IDK skin decon kit ONLY if
no water is available, if water
supply is limited, soldier may use
some of his drinking water (from
bis canteen) with a wet sponge or
cloth. Do not reverse rolls. Only
your buddy's hood will be
decontaminated and rolled at this
time.

STEP 4. REMOVE
OVERGARMENTS/OVERSHOES.
Performing this step limits the
spread of agents and helps
prevent agents from penetrating
through to skin or undergarments.

RISKS: If you do not do this step,
the agent will penetrate your
overgarment. The more agent on
the garment, the quicker it will
penetrate. If you do not do this
step properly, you risk spreading
the agent onto your
undergarments or skin, causing
casualties.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:
• Two discard
containers
(recommend
plastic bags.)

CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL:
Unfasten the three snaps on the
back of overgarment trousers. Do
this by grasping the outside
overgarment jacket and
unsnapping the snaps individually.
Untie the drawcord at the bottom
of the jacket. Unfasten the Velcro
® at the wrist and unfasten.
Unfasten the Velcro® closures
over the zippered front of the
jacket and ur>zip the jacket. Grasp
the jacket at the shoulders.
Instruct the buddy to make a fist.
Pull the jacket down and away
from the soldier, ensuring that the
black part of the jacket isn't
touched. Lay the overgarment
jacket on the ground , black side
up. (it will be used for the buddy
to stand on later.) Carefully
unfasten and unzip the trousers.
Do not loosen the waist tabs.
Instruct the soldier to break the
seals on the overshoes by
alternately stepping on the heels
and pulling up his foot. Grasp the
trousers and pull them down to
the knees. Instruct the soldier to
walk out of the trousers/GVOs.
[Step 4| continues on next page.)

3-46

FM 3-7

Table 3-37. MOPP gear exchange (buddy team method)
(Continued).

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedures

STEP 4. REMOVE

OVERGARMENTS/OVERSHOES

{continued).

taking care not to step on the
contaminated side of the
overgarment. If wearing
overboots, remove trousers first,
then step out of overboots (with
buddy's help) onto the black side
of jacket. The soldier should step
onto the jacket wearing mask,
battledress uniform (BDUs), and
gloves.

STEP 5. REMOVE GLOVES.
Performing this step removes
contaminated gloves and limits
the spread of contamination.
RISKS: If this step is not done, it
is quite probable the agent will be
transferred to clean overgarments
(Step 6). Contamination may get
on your skin because gloves, tear,
rip, puncture, and wear out.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:
• Two discard
containers (from
Step 41

Hold finger tips of the gloves and
partially slide the hand out. When
fingers of both hands are free,
hold arms away from body and let
gloves drop off.

STEP 6. PUT ON

OVERGARMENTS. Performing this
step restores MOPP protection.

RISKS: If you do not do this step
properly, you risk contaminating
your new overgarment or your
skin.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:
• Orw set of
chemical
protective
overgarments per
person (correct
size).

Open package containing new
overgarments, but do not touch
the garment. Have your buddy
reach into the package and pull
out the overgarment without
touching the outside of the
package. Your buddy puts on the
trousers arKf jacket, fastens
overgarment, and leaves trouser
legs open. Do not reverse roles.
Only your buddy will put on clean
overgarments at this time.

STEP 7. PUT ON OVERBOOTS
AND GLOVES. Performing this
step restores MOPP protection.
RISKS: If you do not do this step,
you run the risk of becoming a
casualty by touching
contamination remaining on unit
equipment. You risk spreading
contamination to your skin or
undergarments. You risk
contaminating your regular
combat boots.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:
• One set of
chemicai
protective
overboots per
person.

• One set
chemtc^
protective gloves
per person
(correct size).

• M9 paper.

Pick up a package of clean
overboots and open without
touching the overboots inside.
Have your buddy reach into the
package (witf^out touching
outside of package), remove the
GVO/overboots, put them on, and
fasten trouser legs. Open a
package of clean gloves without
touching gloves. Have your buddy
remove them from package (with-
out touching the outside of the
package) and put them on. Put on
M9 paper. Do not reverse roles.
Only your buddy will put on clean
overgarments at this time.|Table|
3-37lcontinued on next page.

3-47

FM 3-7

Table 3-37. MOPP gear exchange (buddy team method)
(Continued).

Steps and Risks

Equipment

Procedures

STEP 8. SECURE HOOD.
Performing this step restores
MOPP preotection.

RISKS: If you do not do this step,
you risk tranferring contamination
to the inside of the hood.

ALL

CONTAMINATION:

• One decon 1
and one decon 2
wipe packet
fromM258l kit.

• One M295 SDK
decon packet.

Decontaminate your rubber
gloves wi^ M258A1 or M295
skin decon kit. Once gloves are
decontaminated, unroll your
buddy's hood and attach the
straps and tighten neck cord.
Check all zippers ar>d ties on the
hood and overgarment to ensure
they are tight.

Thorough Decon

Table 3-38. Thorough decon support matrix.

UNIT

DIVISION CMLO

DIVISION

BRIGADE

DISCOM

FSB

CHEMICAL UNIT

CONTAMINATED

UNIT

BATTAUON

SITUATION

DEPENDENT

Preparation Phase Tasks |

Request

Coordination

Site Selection

S or S

Advance Party Link-up

Site-Setup

Execution Phase Tasks |

Site Control/Security

Predeocn Actions

Processing

1 Site Clearance Phase Tasks |

Cleanup

Marking & Reporting

P = Primary Responsibility, S

= Supporting Responsibility

3-48

FM 3-7

Table 3-39. Equipment recapitulation for detaiied troop decon
of an average-sized company.

Three containers (2-gallon capacity).
One will hold an immersion heater.

Two books of MS paper per squad.

Three containers (3-gallon capacity).
Four additional containers required for
radiological decon.

One role of M9 paper per squad.

Two M258A1 or M291 decon kits per
person.

Four Ml chemical agent monitors
(CAMS).

Two boxes of plastic bags.

Four M8A1 automatic chemical agent
alarms.

Ten 50-pound drums of STB.

Two immersion heaters with fuel.

One 5-pound drum of general purpose
detergent.

Two shovels.

One 1 -gallon container of mask
sanitizing solution per ten tanks.

First aid supplies and antidotes.

Four long-handled brushes.

One M256A1 detector kit per squad.

Four large sponges (four additional
sponges for radiological decon).

One role plastic per company.

Four bundles of rags.

One case paper towels per company.

Four cutting tools (scissors, knives).

Engineer tape.

One filter-pair or filter canister per
mask.

Protective mask PLL parts.

One hood per mask.

NOTE: If only one radiacmeter is
available, use it at Station 5 to
monitor personnel. Pile together
decontaminated equipment from
Station 1 and decontaminate masks
from Station 7. After a squad has
been monitored through Station 5, an
attendant should monitor the
equipment pile.

Three AN/PDR27 radiacmeters or
AN/VDR2 (for radiological only).

3-49

FM 3-7

Table 3-40. Detailed Troop Decon

personnel and equipment recapitulation.

Station

Personnel

Equipment

Stationi

Individual Gear Decon

2 attendants

1 monitor (CAM operator)

3 30-gallon containers
2 long-handled brushes
2 ponchos or plastic

sheets
1 CAM

8 MS detector paper

4 M256A1 kits
100 trash bags

Station2

Overboot and Hood
Decon

1 attendant

2 cutting tools
60 M258A1 or M295 (or
one per person)

2 ponchos or plastic
tarps

100 trash bags

Station 3

Overgarment Removal

1 attendant

10 M258A1/M295
2 30-gallon containers
100 trash bags

Station 4

Overboot and Glove
Removal

1 attendant

2 30-gallon containers
100 trash bags
Engineer tape
Cutting tool

Station 5
Monitor

1 attendant (CAM
operator)

1 aidman (or combat
lifesaver)

1 CAM

5 M8 detector paper
24 M258A1/M295

Station 6
Mask Removal

2 attendants

1 M8A1 chemical alarm

Station 7
Mask Decon Point

2 attendants
1 monitor

4 3-gallon containers

1 CAM

2 sponges

1 case paper towels
1 immersion heater
w/container

Mask sanitizing solution

Station 8
Reissue Point

Unit supply NCO
Unit NBC NCO

Mask PLL

3-50

FM 3-7

Table 3-4 1. Planning Factors for DS2 application.

Planning Catagory Tank Truck APC

Gallons of DS2 15 8 7 .

-—t~

Minutes to apply 35 29 18

CAUTION

Do not mix HTH or STB with DS2. If mixed, a violent reaction will occur.

Table 3-42. Preparation of decon mixtures.

Decon Mixtures

Solution

1 Gallon of Water

5 Gallons of Water

5 percent

.6 pounds STB/HTH

3.6 pounds STB.HTH

10 percent

.75 pounds STB/HTH

4.5 pounds STB/HTH

Table 3-43. Planning factors for the rinse station.

Planning Catagory

Ml 2A1 Rinse (gal)

Ml 2A1 Rinse (min)
M17 LDS (gal)*

Ml 7 LDS (min)*

With Spray Wands

3-51

FM 3-7

Table 3-44. Common interferences that can cause
false positive readings on the CAM.

Interferent

G-Bar Response

H-Bar response

M258A1 Docon Kit

High

M280 OKIE

High

DS2

Low

Insect Repellent

Low-Very High

Brake Fluid

High-Very High

Very High

Cleaner, General Purpose

High

Burnig Kerosene

High

Breath Mints

High

Gasoline Vapor

Low

Burning Grass

Low-High

Low

Burning Gas

Low

Green Smoke

Low

Low-High

Breakfree Oil

Low

Ammonia

Very High

3-52

FM 3-7

PL • n»tPon LiMtor
PSC • PliloeA S«rBM«t
D • D*ceii HMeon Mmbtr
A • Augmanlw
Q SMPM PufTV

^ 3000 CsIloA Ttnk
# Tnih Can

Figure 3-5. M12A 1 PDDA-equipped unit-optimum DED layout.

3-53

FM 3-7

Table 3-45. Personnel and equipment requirements for
optimum Ml 2A1 PDDA -equpp ed DED setup
(see \ figure

Personnel

Equipment

Decon Platoon

Augmentee

1 Stationi
1 Initial Wash

1 Squad Leader

2 PDDA Operators
4 Sprayers

4 Scrubbers

2 M12A1 PDOAs
2 3,000>gal Tanks
2 65-GPM Pumps
6 Long-Handled
Brushes
8 TAP Aprons
Liquid Detergent

Station 2
DS2 Application

1 Squad Leader
3 Appliers

9 Appliers

18 Long-Handled Brushes
9 MOps with Extra
Mop Heads
3 30-gal Containers
9 Ml 3 DAPs
Sufficient DS2

Station 3

Wail/Intorior Decon

1 NCO

2 Interior

Oecon

Assistants

2 AN/VDR2 or

AN/PDR27 0

3 TAP Aprons

6 30-gal Containers
1 0 M8 Detector Paper
30 Sponges
8 M256A1
50 Trash Bags
1 Clipboard w/Pen
1 Stopwatch

Station 4
Rinse

1 Squad Leader

1 PDDA Operator

2 Pump Operators

2 Sprayers

1 M12A1 PDDA

1 3,000 gal Tank
3 65 GPM Pumps

2 TPU

2 TAP Aprons

Station 5
Check

2 NCO/CAM Operatiors

2 CAM
10 M256A1
20 M8 Detector Paper
2 AN/VDR2 or
AN/PDR27
2 M8A1 Chem
Alarms

! Platoon Leader
1 Platoon Sergeant

1 HUMMWV/CUCV
w/Radio

3 NBC Marking Kits

Total Personnel

3-54

FM 3-7

Figure 3-6. An Alternate DED layout for an
M12A 1 PDDA-equipped unit.

3-55

FM 3-7

Table 3-46. Personnel and equipment requirements for an
alternate M12A1 PpPA-eouip oed DED setup
(see figure 3-61

Personnel

Equipment

Station 1
Initial Wash

1 NCOIC*

2 PODA Operators*
4 Sprayers

2 Scrubbers

2 M12A1 PDOAs
2 3.000-Gallon Tanks
2 65-GAL Pumps
4 Long-Handled Brushes
6 TAP Aprons
Liquid Detergent

Station 2
DS2 Application

1 NCOIC*
8 Appliers

14 Long-Handled Brushes
8 Mops with Extra Mop Heads
3 30-Gallon Containers
8 Ml 3 DAPs
Sufficiervt DS2

Station 3

Wait/Interior Decon

1 NCO*

2 Interior Decon Assistants

2 AN/VDR2 or AN/PDR27

3 TAP Aprons

6 30-Gallon Containers
1 0 MB Detector paper
30 Sponges
8 M256A1
50 trash Bags
1 Clipboard w/Pen
1 Stopwatch

Station 4
Rinse

1 NCOIC*

1 PDOA Operator*

2 Sprayers

1 M12A1 PDDA
1 3.0(X)-Gallon Tank
1 65-GPM Pump

1 TPU

2 TAP Aprons

Station 5
Check

2 NCO/CAM Operators*

2 CAMS
10 M256A1
20 MB Detector Paper
2 AN/VDR2 or AN/PDR27
2 M8A1 Chem Alarms

1 Ratoon {Decon Ratoon)

1 Ratoon Sergeant (Decon
Platoon)

1 HUMMWV/CUCV w/Radio
3 NBC Marking Kits

Total Personnel

(Minimum of 1 1 soldiers
from the decon platooni

These individuals should be from the decon platoon

- 5 6

FM 3-7

Figure 3-7. Optimum DED layout for an Ml 7 LDS-equipped unit.

3-57

FM 3-7

Table 3-47. Personnel and equipment optimum requirements
for optimum Ml 7 LDS DED setup
(see f inure 3-7)1.

Personnel

Equipment

Decon Platoon

Augmentee

Station 1
Initial Wash

1 Squad Leader
4 Sprayers

2 Scrubbers

3 Ml 7 LDS
3 1 ,500-gal Tanks
3 65-GPM Pumps
6 Long-Handled
Brushes
8 TAP Aprons
Liquid Detergent

Station 2
DS2 Application

1 Squad Leader
3 Appliers

9 Appliers

18 Long-Handled Brushes
9 MOps with Extra
Mop Heads
3 30-gal Containers
9 Ml 3 DAPs
Sufficient DS2

Station 3

Wail/Interior Decon

1 NCO

2 Interior Decon
Assistants

2 AN/VDR2 or

AN/PDR27

3 TAP Aprons

6 30-gal Containers
1 0 M8 Detector Paper
30 Sponges
8 M256A1
50 Trash Bags
1 Clipboard w/Pen
1 Stopwatch

Station 4
Rinse

1 Squad Leader
4 Sprayers

3 Ml 7 LDS
3 1 ,500 gal Tank

3 65 GPM Pumps

4 TAP Aprons

Station 5
Check

2 NCO/CAM Operators

2 CAM
10 M256A1
20 M8 Detector Paper
2 AN/VDR2 or
AN/POR27
2 M8A1 Chem
Alarms

! Platoon Leader
1 Platoon Sergeant

1 HUMMWV/CUCV
w/Radio

3 NBC Marking Kits

Total Personnel

3-58

FM 3-7

Figure 3-8. An Alternate DED layout for an
Ml 7 LDS-eguipped unit.

3-59

FM 3-7

Table 3-48. Personnel and equipment requirements for
alternate Ml 7 LDS DED setup
(see figure J-S|l.

Personnel

Equipment

Station 1
Initial Wash

1 NCOIC*

4 Sprayers
4 Scrubbers

3 Ml 7 LDS
3 1,500-Gallon Tanks

3 65-GAL Pumps

4 Long-HarKlIed Brushes
8 TAP Aprons

Liquid Detergent

Station 2
DS2 Application

1 NCOIC*
8 Appliers

14 Long-Handled Brushes
8 Mops with Extra Mop Heads
3 30-Gallon Containers
8 Ml 3 DAPs
Sufficient DS2

Station 3

Wait/Interior Decon

1 NCO*

2 Interior Decon Assistants

2 AN/VDR2 or AN/PDR27

3 TAP Aprons

6 30-Gallon Containers
10 M8 Detector paper
30 Sponges
8 M256A1
50 trash Bags
1 Clipboard w/Pen
1 Stopwatch

Station 4
Rinse

1 NCOIC*
4 Sprayers

2 Ml 7 LDS
2 1,500-Gallon Tank
2 65-GPM Pump
4 TAP Aprons

Station 5
Check

2 NCO/CAM Operators*

2 CAMS
10 M256A1
20 M8 Detector Paper
2 AN/VDR2 or AN/PDR27
2 MSA 1 Chem Alarms

1 Platoon (Smoke/Decon
Platoon)

1 Platoon Sergeant

(Smoke/Decon Ratoon)

1 HUMMWV/CUCV w/Radio
3 NBC Marking Kits

Water Resupply

2 Drivers*

2 TPUs

Total Personnel

(Minimum of 10 soldiers
from the smoke/decon
platoon)

* These individuals should be from the decon platoon

- 6 0

FM 3-7

HOT UNE
(DIRTY SIDE)

ill 'Ji-

HOT UNE
(CLEAN SIDE)

30 toSjARDS

CLEAN

TREATMENT

STATION

PATIENT

DISPOSITION

POINT

CONTAMINATED

AREA

(DOWN WIND)

CONTAMINATED
EMERGENCY MEDICAL
TREATMENT
STATION

CLEAN AREA

(UP WIND)

D DIREC

WIND DIRECTION

Figure 3-9. Layout for a patient decontamination station and a
dean treatment area without Collective Protection Shelter (CPS).

3-61

FM 3-7

Chemical Patient Decontamination Procedures

Step 1. Decontaminate the patient's mask end hood.

Step 2. Remove gross contamination from the patient's overgarment.

Step 3. Remove patient's protective overgarment and personal effects.

Step 4. Remove patient's battledress uniform.

Step 5. Transfer the patient to a decon litter.

Step 6. Decontaminate skin (M291 /M258A1 kit or 0.5% chlorine solution).
Step 7. Transfer the patient across the shuffle pit.

Figure 3- 10. Field expedient NBC casualty tag.

Table 3-49. Standard Decontaminants.

Decontaminant

Chemical

Biological

Nuclear

DS2

STB

Mask sanitizing solution

Soap and detergents

3-62

FM 3-7

Table 3-50. Natural Decontaminants.

Oecontamtnant

Chemical

Biological

Nuclear

Weathering

Absorbents (earth, sawdust, ashes, rags)

Sealants (concrete, asphalt, earth, paint)

Water

Steam

Fire

Table 3-51. Average DS2 and Water Usage
for Thorough Decon.

Vehicle

DS2 Req (gal)

Water Req (gal)

M17

M12A1

Tank

8.5

215

Truck

4.9

157

ARC

3.8

151

Ref; Tech Report DPG/JOD-91/017 dated 26 Aug 91.

NOTE: Sump requirements calculations for the sump at each station are:
Total gallons x 0.00495 = cubic yards
Cubic yards x 1 .5 = size hold to dig

3-63

FM 3-7

Table 3-52. Nonstandard Decontaminants.

Decontaminant

Chemical

Biological

Nuclear

Oxidizing agents (potassium permanganate, potassium
or sodium dichromate, nitric acid, or aqua regia

Complexing (chelating) agents (citric acid, tartaric acid,
sodium tartrate), keroser>e, segesterene, sodium citrate,
oxalic acid, sodium oxalate, or orthophosphoric acid

Iodine water purification tablets

Disinfectant, chlorine, food service

Formalin (formaldehyde)

Peracetic acid (PAA)

Ethylene oxide

Carboxide

Hyamine (benzathonium chloride)

Sodium hypochlorite solution (household bleach)

Calcium hypochlorite (HTH) Ihigh-test bleach (HTB), or
high-test hypochlorite)*

2-Propanone (acetone)

Diethyl ether

Ethylene glycol

Solvents (gasoline, JP4, diesel fuel, kerosene)

Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda or lye)

Sodium carbonate (washing soda, soda ash, sal soda,
or laundry soda)

Potassium hydroxide (caustic potash)

Hexachloramelamine

Ammonia or ammonium hydroxide (household ammonia)

Perchloroethylene (tetrachloroethylene)

Dichloramine-B and Dichloramine-T

Acids (sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, acetic acid, or
oxalic acid)

*A 5 percent solution hypochlorite solution is an effective decon solution against most 1

chemical and biological agents. This solution can be used effectively for skin decon
provided it is followed by a soap-and-water wash. Calcium hypochlorite is in the Army |

supply system.

3-64

FM 3-7

Decontamination of Specific Items

The following table lists more than two dozen specific surfaces or materials, and it
explains briefly how to best decontaminate each for chemical, biological, and
nuclear contammation. The best method for decon of a particular surface or material
in a given situation could be any of those listed for that surface or material.

The order in which the methods are listed does not indicate preference of one over
another. You should choose the beat method for decon of a particular item. For a
more in-depth understanding of the decon methods, refer to FM 3-5.

Table 3-53. Decontamination of Specific items.

Surfaca

Malarial

1 Typa of Contamination |

Chamleal

Biologic »l

NuclOBr

Roadi

(Applieabta 10
•maM vital
aiaai only)

• nueli wWi Mreler.

e Spray wWt slurry from PDOE.
e Cover wNh STB; when Hquid
eentamlnation It visible artd
peraoenel are nearby, use dry mix.
e Weather.

• Cover emaM areas or palha across
reads with tO cm (4 Irtchea) of earth.

o Weolhtr. (Rar*iair> masked.)
o Wet with wsier |«dl help prevent
eeoendary aerosots, but dees not
decon).

0 Apply 2% heveehold bleech solution.
oSiKay wNh slwrry from POO£.
a Pour, spray, or spread oil on surfaca
(wB haip provent aoeondery aeresot,
but does AM decon).

• Bruah or swa^.
a Flush wMi water

<ih)s may drive aome of the
eorrtamirtation inio the surtaeo;
waste mutt ba controMed).

• Maeuum efesning.

Aoefa

Same u for aaprtaa roads.

Same ae for asphalt roads.

Brick t Slona:
noada

(applicaW* to
imail Vital
areas only)

e Weather.

e Spray wMi slurry from POOE or
apply wHh brushas and brooms.

Let remain 24 hours, than Mwah
with watar.

a Wash with soapy watar. prefarably

hot.

• Cover small areas or paths aerou
roads «vith 10 cm (4 inches) of eerih.

Bemo ae for aaphait roadi.

a Samo as ter aaphoM reads.

0 Abrasion |sand Matring). This
provides direct artd complete
removal of centaminaied dust;
however, send and equipment
beittg used becomes contamirtaied.

Buildings

e Sprsy with slurry Irom POOE or
epply with brushes and brooms.

Lei remain 24 hours, then Mush with
water.

e Use STB or dry mix around build
ings whoio wasia water rune,
e Wash with soapy water, preferably
hoL

e Wealher.

• Samo «e for aephaN reads,
a Appfy.STBalwri^ 10 vertical surfaces
by manual means or PODE. Slurry
may be tefi on exteriors..

Same as for briek and stone reads.

Concrat*;

Roads

(Applicabla to
small vital
areas only)

e Spray with slurry from POOE.
a Cover vhth STB or dry mix.
a\Meth#r.

• Cover emal areas or paths screes

roads with tO om (4 inches) of earth.

Some as tor asphalt roads.

Same as lor brick and iione toads.

BuWduios,
bunkers, gun
smplace-
mertts, tank
oosiscivs

Sams as for brick and ilone buMdlno*-

Samo as tor brk* and stone bukdingt.

Samo as for brick and stone buildings.

cortlinged ]

3-65

FM 3-7

Table 3-53. Decontamination of Specific items (continued).

• 6p(«y wMt ■lurry liom POOE.

• 0»v*r wWi BTB; whan liquid
poMimlnMIon la vMM and
panoruMi ara naarby. uaa dry mix.

aWMihar.

a Bum (may praaarH dowawdnd'wapor

haxard).

a Oavarimal araM ar paVta aeraM
raada wWi 10 on (4 Inchaa) of aarti.
a Scrap layac of eeniaminaiad aarti to
■Ida ar road.

Typo of ContamlAotlon

Biological

a Sama aa far aaphaM roada
a Burn.

CofMA

a bon in waiar tor 18 mimdM.
a Amoal a ua far 46 mlnatai al 113^

Vaarf\.

a Itiwnaraa la tX haiiaahaid btaaoti
■ohMlon for 30 mlnufa a , llnaa
Immadiaiaty.

oLaundar IdaatfayaorIna aOva m a aM
but highly raatotanl aporaa).

Woalan fD82 not rMOmmandad}.
Laundar (fabric may ahrinli).

a Immaraa In t% houaahold Maach

abNnaraainaoapywaiaral120*Ffor a Immaraa in 2% pa r aeat te acid tor 10
4 hrs and rinaa. minutaa, rinia. arid ak for 10 to SO

a Uaa $% aedKan eariwnaia loluilon minutaa.

tarGagania. aW>pawith 2 %paraeatlaacld.

aAk. ramowaucau. andairlOIOlS

aEarthmo«tno (ramoval). I

Contaminatad duM ahouid ba I

comrollad. gquipmant may baeoma I
eemaminatad. Waaia diap^
muat ba cenaidarad.
a Saalino (wWt aarOi). No waata
diapeaal problam: howavar.
aquipmant may baeoma
eontaminalad.

Cotton and WeoioA PS2 not
faoommandad for woNan).
a BruaNng (ramowaa oantaminatad
dual, but praaanta dual haiard
lap paraerinal|.

a Laundarino (rmt practical
proeadura; waata muat ba
oonwoWad; labrie may atwinb|.

aBruaMog

a nuahing wNh walar or aoapy w

aOCean hit.indMduaf aquipmant

a M298A1 or M200 kit

aOS2.

a Waah wMh hot. aoapy walar.
a Vdaah with olaar walar or organic
aotvarN.

a Biol oN aurtaea.
aAk.

a MZsaAl or M2S0 Wt a MBSdAI or M280 hN.

a Waah with aoap and walar. a Waah with datargant

aWipawithdiainfaetantaoludonar a Ruah wNh walar.

2 % paraeatie add (aaa aimlar a Wpa with aolvanta.

precaduraa balow (or maaa gear).

aM2S8A1erM280lrit
a Sama aa lor wirukiwa (OS2 may
damage lana coatirtga).
a Oaoen kit. individual aquipmant

a Bum.

a Spray wMt durry tram PDOB.
a Covar with STB or dry mia.
a Exploda drumc of STB.
a Ow paths Owough araa by uaa of
daiortating cord or olhar dalonaOrtg

aM2S«Af orM2B0kit
a Wipa with toap and water,
a Wi^ with aloehol or heuaaheid

a Burn.

a Sarrw aa for aaphah roada.

aM2S8A1 orM2Mkit
a Brush or wipa (eara muat ba
axaroisad lo pravant toralehing
of lansf.

a Usa oempraaaad air la Wow
contamination from aurtaea.

laMal

FM 3-7

Table 3-53. Decontamination of Specific items (continued).

Surf«c«

1 Typ« ^ Contwnlnbtlon |

Chcmlcdl

01 o)o 0 lcal

Nuclear

MtUlt

(unpalnttd):

AmnwnMon

a NMpa wiNt *Mpy walaf .

aVMpa witb organic *e*vat)t and dry.

oAir

a \Mpa vndl aoapy water,
a VM(M wito 2% houaahoid bleach
aolutton.

*Mr.

eBruah erwipt.

M»eMn«ry

oUmOSZ.

a Sam* aa lor arrwnunltfon.

eUeeOS2.

a \Mpe with 2% paracMie acid, rlnae,
artd tor tor to to 1$ mlnuM*.

MMtpMf
■Atf CMWWd
rMoAt

* immara* in boiling, aoapy waiar tor
SO minulaa arwl rina*.
a Immara* In Dolling wator tor 30
mlngiao.

*SpraywitftOS2.

a Vtoah in hoi, aoapy araur. rinaa, artd
air.

e^Atoah «Mi ooap aitd wator. tiart
immaraa to dtotofaeiani aohrltoa
(ditontoetanl, ahtortoe, toed aeivtoe,
or 1A eantoen aup of houaahoM
bleach per 10 gal watoi).
a BoMtowator 19 mtoulea. (Not
affacdua on totona and baeiarito
aperat.) townarM to 5% aodium
earbonai* (4tow**htog*od*M 10
galtona water}, rina* wfto potaMa
water.

e Immara* to houaahoid bleach
aoluion (VS gal bleach to 2$ gal
«vatar} tor 90 mtowle*. toan rlnae w)d
tor for 10 to 19 ntonute*.
a Immara* in HfH aotwtton (1 A lb to
2S gal water} 30 mtoutoa, toart rina*.
atoimaraa to STB loMion (1 to to 29
gal waiaO tor 30 mtowtaa, then rtoa*.
a Immara* to 2% paraoetie aeld lor
10 mlnutaa, rtoa*. and air for 10
to lOrrttoutaa.

e watoi wHh aoap and water, rina*.
a 8ruah. wipe eontamlnation from
auitoaea and aorttainara.

Maul*

(p«inl»d);

w««pon«,

a DS2 (may aohan paini).
a Waah with hot. aoapy waiar and
rina*.

a Spray with aiurry from POOE,
rarrwy* from aurfaoa in 1 hour and
oil aurfaoa.
a Waaihar.
a Air.

a M291 kh may ba uaad tor individual
wiapon dacofl.

a M260 (OKIE) daoon kH. indMdud
aquipmanl.

a Waah whh datargani artd
high-praaaur* water stream,
a Appfy daveehiorlto. Laav* on
30 minvto*. Ihan ramowa by
waahing with ■ siraam ol water,
a Stoam ctoan, tratog detergenl.
a Uaa houaahM blaaoh aoludon.
a Ua* 2% paracedc acid.

a Bruih or wipe.
aWkth.

a Ua* organfe acNanta, eauitie* (not
on alumlnuffl or magnaaiwm
aurfae**}, oarrtplaKtog agent* (of
amal value on weathered surfaces),
or abrativet.

(epftqu*):
intulatien.
M4«p6en«t.
p»n*t board*.

a 0S2 (may aofian or damage aoma
plaatlca.

a Wash with hot, aoapy water aiHl
rinaa.
aWaathar.
a Air.

Same as for lanaa*

* Wash with daiergants.

* Ruth with wator.

* Wipe or brush.

PUatkt

(tranaparant):

Eyapiacat,

ariplan*

canopy

a Vitosh with hot. aoapy water and
rinaa.
aWealhar.
a Air.

a Blot off aurfae*.

Sam* at for tanaaa.

Sam* as tor plastic* (opaque).

eonilniMd

3-67

FM 3-7

Table 3-53. Decontamination of Specific items (continued).

Typt of ContimlnoUon

Bldogleal

Rubb*f

(Impcrmt*

Apfoni, ultB,
•net oittsf
f(«ms

Rubb«f
{nAlural and
tynthetioj:
Glovvs, boots

M«*k

f«ctpi*c«s

and otbor
fubborartidM
coming in
diiset eanuet
wim ih* skin.

Titst, hosos.
matt, insuti'

Sand

(Appiicablo
10 small vital
artat only):
Baachas.
dcsarls.

Undergrowth
and tall grass:
Maadows,
jungles,
forests
(AppiicaMe
to snrtall vital
areas only)

Wood

(unpaintad):

Buiidirtgs,

wfiicle

bodrat,

boaes, crates,

arm similar

Hams

a ^ray wifK 0S2 and rinsa after
30 mlnulas.

a Immeraa in hot soapy water Qust
below boiling point) lor 1 hour; do
net agitata. Rinsa with clear water
and hang up to dry-
a For G agents, use 10% sodium car<>
bortata solutien, rinsa, a/td airr
a Apply hot, soapy water with brushet
aM rinsa.

a Spray with slurry from POOE
a Altar a few minutas, wash off with

a ^rsy with 10% tnixtura el HTH
and rinse.

a Immerse in stuffy solution lor
4 hours, rinse, and air.
a Use the M29t kit in amargarreias.
aAlA

a USE lha M291 kit in amargsneias.
a Wash with warm, soapy water,
a Use dacon kit, individual aquipmant.
M2S0.

a Brushing.

a Scrubbing or Nushirtg with water or
soapy water.

Same as for leather.

a Wash in warm, soapy Mratar, rinst
in dear water, and at room
tamparelura

a Wpo with Z% paracotie acid: wipe
off excess imrnadiaUly, and air
to to tSminuMS.

Same as for imparmaabla rubber.

a Wipe or brush oN.
a Wipe off with water attd detergent
fovoid waning mash filters).

a Spray with 10% mixtuie of HTH and Use same methods used for cherrticel Same as for impermeable rubber.

rinse. dacon.

a Apply slurry pasta. Allow slurry to
lamaln at least 30 mirtulat. then
flush with dear water (may be left
on tires).

a Appty hot soapy water .
a Air.

a Weather.

a Fluih wtbt wattf . a Bum .

a Spread STB or spray stuiry over a Wat with water (will help prevent
aurfeee. secondary aarotola, but does rtot

a Weather. deoon).

e Cover paths with roofing papar. e Apply 2% household bleach soludort.

e Scraps off 9 10 to cm (2 to 4 Irwhss) a Ap^y slurry of 7 parts STB end

of coniaminattd top layer.

e Bum (downwind vapor hazard),
e Spray slurry from PGOE.
e Weather.

e Explode drums of STB.
e Cleer paths with detonating cord,
bangalera torpedoes, Or demolition

anshas.

S3 pans wsiar (by weight),
a Apply sodium hydroxide.

a Burn.

• Sams ssfor sand.

( To axtant possible, use same proce-
dures as for earth.

3-68

FM 3-7

Table 3-53. Decontamination of Specific items (continued).

Surftc*

Material

1 Type of Conlamlnallon ]

Chomicat

Biologlc*l

Nuctnr

Wood

(pdlAIMl

•urtoe*):

(OS2 may

•otian paint).

BuiU^a.

boxta

• Apply aKirry imHA PDDE, bfooma,
or aMOba- Lot alurry romain 12 lo 24
heuia, Ot«n fioM oft with wautf.
a Scrub with hot waiar and rinM. Uaa
OS2 and rinta.
aWaatfiar.

Sama aa tar wood buHdinga and
boxaa aa prt^eualy Indicalad .

a Wlaah axtarier with larga ameurtta
ol watar.

a WIpa oontaminatiorrfiom aurraca.

Wbtar

Oaoon of watar ahould only bo wndar«
takan by bainad waiar purlfkatlort pet-
aonnal.

• BoH amal ameunia 15 minwiaa.
a CNorinala oalno chlorination UL
a Add todlna waiar purifieaSon taUata
M amal ameunta of watar.

Food:Nel
eaiwitdor
pnMactad by
imparmaabt*
conUirtM

Food known or tuapaetad lo bo
eoniaminatad with chamioal aoanta
ahouM not ba eonaiwnad uMfl
approwod byvatatinaryparsonnal.

a BoA In watar IS mlnwlai. Cook

VKWOughly.

a tnfwnaraa In or aptay wMi 21k
houaahotd blaach aolulion. {Pack »
agad food or toed which la paalad
or pared may ba immartad or
aprayad.)

Wbah or trim eomaminatlon from un>
packaged tood.

Food:

Canntd,

bttUod.or

proioctodby

impormoabla

contpinor

Saa maaa gaar and cannad latfons.

Saa maia paar and cannad rationa.

Saa maaa gaar and cannad rationa.

PorMnftPl

a Um M29I Ur on axpoaad akin
known Of auapacMd to ba con »
lamirtatad; dacon kit, individual
aqulpmant, M280.

a 8attia with aoap and waiar if raadfly
availabia.

a Bath with aoap and hot watar; dacon
kfl individual aqulpmant, M2ao.

• Uaatha M2St kk.

a Bruah or wipa from akin and hair,
a Balha with aoap and hot watar.

3-69

FM 3-7

Chapter 4

Nuclear Protection

There are three types of radiation:

ALPHA — Travels only a few centimeters, internal hazard only.

BETA — Travels a few meters in air, limited penetrating power, external and internal
hazard.

GAMMA — Travels speed of light, cannot be totally shielded.

Actions Before an Attack:

The best defense against a nuclear attack is to dig in. Unit defensive positions, which
vary from soldier s foxholes to improved defensive positions, should be prepared
whenever the tactical situation permits.

Foxholes: A deep, round foxhole with overhead cover offers the best protection
from blast, thermal radiation, initial nuclear radiation, and fallout.

Field shelters: Well-constructed fighting positions and bunkers provide excellent
protection against all the effects of a nuclear detonation.

Tunnels, caves, culverts, and storm drains provide good shelter.

Armored personnel earners, infantry fighting vehicles, and tanks (in a hull-down
defilade) give excellent protection.

Weapons, individual equipment, clothing, and other items should be secured in their
foxholes. Supplies, explosives, and flammables should be dispersed and protected
or shielded. Ifleft unsecured, these may become lethal weapons from the blast wave.

Figure 4-1. Tracked vehicle as expedient overhead cover.

4-0

FM 3-7

Figure 4-3. Expedient cover against blast and thermal effects.

4-1

Table 4- 1. Shielding values of earth cover for a
2,400-centlgray free-in-air dose.

Soldier in

Radiation Protection Factor

Resuitant Dose cGy

Open

one

2,400

Open foxhole, 4' deep

300

Same with 6” earth cover

200

Same with 12" earth cover

100

Same with 18" earth cover

Same with 24" earth cover

Table 4-2. Radiation protection factors of
sand-or clay-filled sandbags.

Soldier In

Radiation Protection Factor

Resultant Dose cGy

Open

None

2,400

Open foxhole, 4' deep

300

Same with 1 layer (4 inches)

150

Same with 2 layers (8 inches)
Same with 3 iayers (1 2

inches)

4-2

FM 3-7

Table 4-3. Comparison of blast casualties from a
10-kUoton fission weapon.

Range (meters)

200

300

400

700

800

900

1,000

1,400

Personnel in open (percentage)

TOO

1 1

Personnel in wheeled vehicle
(percentage)

100

Actions During an Attack

• Immediately drop face down.

• Close eyes.

• Protect exposed skin.

• Wait until blast wave passes and debris stops falling.

• Stay calm, check for injury.

• Check weapons and equipment.

• Prepare to continue the mission.

Figure 4-5.Recommended body positions in a foxhole.

4-3

FM 3-7

Figure 4-6. Protection from biast flow into shelters.

Actions After an Attack

• Begin continuous monitoring.

• Organize survivors.

• Secure and organize equipment.

• Cover mouth with handkerchief.

• Assist casualties.

• Send NBC 1 report.

• Improve protection against possible fallout.

• Conduct damage assessment and restoration of combat power.

Simplified Fallout Prediction (M5A2)

1. Information required: NBC 2 nuclear report and effective downwind message

(EDM).

2. Record date-time of burst, GZ, and wind direction on M5A2.

3. Determine Zone I from the nomogram printed on the M5A2, draw arc on M5A2,

4-4

FM 3-7

and label.

4. Zone II = 2 x Zone I; draw an arc, and label.

5. Draw tangents from cloud radius to end of Zone I.

6. Darken the perimeter.

7. Draw time-of-arrival arcs and label.

8. Orient azimuth on predictor with grid north.

Significance of Predicted Fallout Zones

Exposed, unprotected personnel may receive the following doses from fallout:
Zone I— Immediate operational concern. More than 150 centigray (cGy) within 4
hours.

Zone II— Secondary hazard. Less than 150 cGy within 4 hours. More than 50 cGy
within 24 hours.

Outside the predicted area— No more than 50 cGy in 24 hours. No more than 150
cGy for an indefinite period.

Detailed Fallout Prediction (Unit Level)

1. Obtain a valid NBC 3 report.

2. Determine scale at which the prediction will be drawn (must be the same as the
map on which it will be displayed.)

3. On overlay paper, mark GZ.

With Line YANKEE (from NBC 3 report):

4. Mark grid north.

5. Extend radial lines at their proper azimuths from GZ (from line YANKEE).

6. Using GZ as center, draw Zone I arc (from line ZULU) between radial lines.

7. Using GZ as center, draw Zone II arc (2 x Zone I) between radial lines.

8. Using GZ as center, draw circle with radius equal to the cloud radius (from line
ZULU).

9. Draw two tangent lines from the GZ circle to the points of intersection of the
two radial lines with the Zone I arc.

10. Using GZ as center, draw dashed time-of-arrival arcs (from line ZULU). No
arcs are drawn beyond the end of Zone II.

11. Label zones, times of arrival.

4-5

FM 3-7

12. Add marginal information:

a. Strike serial number (from line ALFA).

b. Date-time of attack (from line DELTA).

c. GZ coordinates (from line FOXTROT).

d. Scale.

Without Line YANKEE:

4. Using GZ as center, draw Zone I circle (the only 3 digits on line ZULU).

5. Using GZ as center, draw Zone II circle (2 x Zone I).

6. Label zones and GZ.

7. Add marginal information:

a. Strike serial number (from line ALFA).

b. Date-time of attack (from line DELTA).

c. GZ coordinates (from line FOXTROT).

d. Scale.

NOTE: If you need more detailed information on fallout prediction, see FM
3-3-1. Figure 4-6. Four parts of completing a fallout prediction.

Marginal Information

• Map designation

• Grid reference data

• Nuclear burst ground zero identification

• H-hour

• Reference time

• Decay rate (exponent)

• Time of preparation

• Validity time

• Source of contamination (fallout, neutron-induced, or radiological agents)

• Dose rate information

Radiological Monitoring

Periodic monitoring (readings at least once every hour) is done when-

• Intelligence indicates a threat of nuclear war.

• Nuclear war has been initiated or NBC threat status (nuclear) is Serial 3.

• Continuous monitoring falls below 1 centigray per hour (cGyph).

4-6

FM 3-7

Continuous monitoring is done when—

• A nuclear detonation is seen, heard, or reported.

• Periodic monitoring records 1 cGyph or higher.

• Ordered by the unit commander.

• A warning of expected contamination (NBC 3) is received.

Automatic NBC 4 reports are—

• Initial report.

• Peak report.

• Special reports--send when a condition exists that warrants the commander's
attention— for example, when the commander's operational exposure guidance
(OEG) is exceeded.

Additional directed reports are—

• Series reports.

• Summary reports.

• Verification reports.

Radiological Survey Briefing

1. Situation: Enemy and contamination situation

2. Mission: Who, what, when, where, and why

3. Execution:

(a) Concept of operation

(b) Assignments

(1) Time of departure

(2) Primary and alternate routes

(3) Coordination required

(4) OEG, turn-back dose (D,J, turn-back dose rate (R„,

(5) Actions on reaching Dj, or R,;,

(6) Areas requiring marmg

(7) Debriefing - when, where, by whom

4. Service Support: Forms, equipment, POL, decontamination, and so forth

5. Command Signal:

a. Command. Location of control party

b. Signal:

(1) Reporting requirements

(2) SOI

(3) Codes and call signs

(4) Primary and alternate communication means

4-7

FM 3-7

Aerial Radiological Survey Briefing

Control party briefing includes—

• Time of departure.

• Course legs and routes.

• Tentative height.

• Coordination required.

• OEG.

• Actions on reaching or R,;,.

• Debriefing: when, where, by whom.

• Height of aircraft (150 meters AGL [above ground level] maximum, 60 meters
AGE optimal).

• Ground speed (53 knots [98 kmph] maximum; slower is more accurate).

• Establishment procedures for the air-ground correlation factor (AGCF).

• Time interval between readings (500 meters maximum).

Figure 4-7. Downwind distance of Zone / (km).

4-8

FM 3-7

To use the above table to find the downwind distance of Zone I, enter the left-hand
column with the yield as indicated on line NOVEMBER of the NBC 2 nuclear
report. Read across the top to locate the nearest wind speed (always round UP to
safe-side). Where the two columns intersect is the Zone I distance Distances are
in kilometers.

Time of arrival (TARR)

Distance From GZ (KM)
Effective Wind Speed (kmph)

^ . . . Indise Dose or Dose Rate (ID)

Transmission factor — ~ — r r , -

Outside Dose or Dose Rate (OD)

Inside dose or dose rate = Outside dose or dose rate x transmission factor

Outside dose or dose rate

Inside Dose or Dose Rate
Transmission Factor

Radiological Calculations’^

(For use with pocket calculator)

Decay

Kaufman Equation: Ri = Rt x tn Rt = Ri/tn t = —

R,= Dose rate measured at H -i- 1.

R,= Dose rate measured at time (t) after burst (other than H -f 1)
t = Time that Rt was measured (in H +m- hours after burst),
n = Decay exponent (use 1.2 if unknown).

Total Dose**

Use if T,< H -F 25: D = (R,/l-n) (T 1-n - T,l-n)

Use if T^> H -F 25:D =

D = Total dose.

Tj= Time of exit from area (in H 4- number of hours after burst).

T^= Time of entry into area (in H 4- number of hours after burst).

T^= Time of stay in area (hours).

Decay Rate of Fallout (n)

n = Log(RyRJ/Log(T,/TJ

R,= Dose rate measured at time a (TJ (after peak dose rate).

Rt= Dose rate measured at time b (TJ (last dose rate).

T,= time (in H 4- number of hours after burst) that R,was measured.
Tj,= time (in H 4- number of hours after burst) that R^was measured.

* For neutron induced radiological calculations, use nomograms in FM 3-3-1.
** When decay constant n = f, use 1.000001 tor the above equation.

4-9

FM 3-7

Validity Time for Decay Rate (Tp)

Tp= 3 (Tp-TJ + Tp

T,= Time (in H + number of hours after burst) that R,was measured.
Tp= Time (in H + number of hours after burst) that R^was measured.

Table 4-4. Normalizing Factors (NFs)
(Correlation to H + 1 Hour)

TIME AFTER
BURST

DECAY EXPONENT (n) |

0.600

0.800

1.000

1.200

1.400

1.600

1.800

2.000

10 min

0341

0.238

0.167

0116

0.061

0057

0.040

0.028

20 min

0.517

0.415

0 333

0268

0.215

0.172

0.138

0.111

30 min

0.660

0.574

0500

0435

0.379

0.330

0.287

0.250

40 min

0.784

0.723

0.667

0615

0.567

0.523

0.482

0.444

50 min

0.896

0.864

0.833

0 803

0 775

0.747

0.720

0.694

1 hr 0 min

1.000

1 000

1.000

1 hr 10 min

1.090

1 130

1.160

1 200

1.240

1.280

1.320

1.360

1 hr 20 min

1.180

1.250

1 330

1.410

1.490

1.580

1.670

1.770

1 hr 30 min

1 270

1.380

1.500

1 620

1 760

1.910

2.070

2.250

1 hr 40 min

1 350

1.500

1.660

1 840

2.040

2.260

2500

2.770

1 hr 50 min

1 430

1.620

1.830

2.070

2.330

2,630

2.970

3.360

2 hr 0 min

1.510

1 740

2000

2.290

2.630

3 030

3.480

4.000

2 hr 1 5 min

1.620

1.910

2.250

2 640

3.110

3 660

4,300

5.060

2 hr 30 min

1.730

2 080

2 500

3.600

4,330

5.200

6.250

2 hr 45 min

1.830

2 240

2 750

3.360

4.120

5.040

6.170

7.560

3 hr 0 min

1.930

2 400

3000

3730

4.650

5.800

7.220

9.000

3 hr 15 min

2020

2 560

3 250

4.110

5.200

6.590

8340

10,560

3 hr 30 min

2.120

2.720

3 500

4490

5.770

7.420

9.530

12.250

3 hr 45 min

2.210

2.870

3750

4.880

6.360

8.280

10.790

14.060

4 hr 0 min

2290

3.030

4 000

5.270

6.960

9.190

12.120

16.000

4 hr 20 min

2 410

3.230

4 330

5810

7.790

10.440

14.000

18.770

4 hr 40 min

2.520

3 420

4.660

6350

8.640

11.760

16.000

21.770

5 hr 0 min

2.620

3 620

5 000

6-890

9.510

13 130

18.110

25.000

5 hr 20 min

2.730

3810

5.330

7.450

10.410

14.560

20.360

28.440

5 hr 40 min

2830

4.000

5 660

8010

11.340

16.040

22.690

32.110

6 hr 0 min

2.930

4.190

6000

6.580

12.280

17.580

25.150

36.000

6 hr 20 min

3 020

4.370

6 330

9 160

13.250

19.170

27 720

40.110

6 hr 40 min

3 120

4.560

6 660

9 740

14.230

20.800

30.410

44.440

7 hr 0 min

3.210

4.740

7.000

10330

15.240

22.490

33.200

49.000

7 hr 20 min

3 300

4.920

7.330

10920

16.270

24.230

36.100

53,770

7 hr 40 min

3 390

5.100

7 660

11 520

17.310

26.020

39.110

58770

8 hr 0 min

3480

5.270

8.000

12 120

18.370

27.850

42.220

64.000

9 hr 0 min

3.730

5800

9.000

13 960

21.670

33630

52.190

81.000

10 hr 0 min

3.980

6 310

10.000

15.840

25.110

39.810

63.090

100.000

11 hr 0 min

4210

6 800

11.000

17 760

28.700

46.360

74.900

121 000

1 2 hr 0 min

4.440

7 300

12.000

19 720

32.420

53.290

87.600

144.000

1. Use next higher time if time falls in between.

2. Interpolating NF of odd decay rates will be approximations only.

Normalizing Factor Formulas

For H + 1: NF = (T^
or H + 48: NF = (T748)

T2 = Elapsed time after burst
n = Decay Exponent
R,= R,xNF

4-10

3-7

Aerial Survey Calculations

leg or route length (km)
Minimum number of readings = ,

Time between readings (sec) =

Leg or Route Length (km) x 3 ,600 x (no. readings - 1)
Windspeed of Aircraft (kmph)

Distance between readings (km) =

Time Between Readings (sec) x Aerial Aircraft Speed (kmph)
3.6(«‘4r)

„ . Leg or Route Length (km)

Plotting interval between readings (km) = — ° ^ Readings - 1

Turn-back

dose (Dtb)

OEG

dose rate (Rtb)

2 X OEGx Speed (kmph)
Distance (km)

4-11

FM 3-7

Table 4-5. Transmission Factors for Residua! Radiation.

Ml tank

.04

M60 tank

.04

M2 IFV

M3 CFV

M93 NBC Recon (Fox)

Ml 13 ARC

Ml 09 SP howitzer

MSS recovery vehicle

.09

M548 cargo vehicle

M577 carrier; command post

M551 Armored Recon Airborne Assault Vehicle

M72S Combat Engineer Vehicle

.04

M9 ACE

Grader

Bulldozer

Scraper

HMWWV

CUCV

2 V 2 -ton truck

4- to 7-ton truck

Multistory building

Top floor

.01

Lower Floor

Frame house

First floor

Basement

Urban area (in open)

.7*

Woods

.8'

Underground shelter (3-foot earth cover)

.0002

Foxholes

* These factors do not apply to ground survey dose rates.

Note: The above TFs are for planning purposes only. Calculate the actual TF for a given

shelter using the following transmission factor formulas.

^ ID {Inside Dose Rate) ^ ODa: ZF
OD {Outside Dose Rate)

4-12

FM 3-7

Table 4-6. Correlation Factors for Residua! Radiation. *

Shielding

Location of Survey Meter

Correlation

Factor

Ml tank (Abrams)*

20.0

M60 tank

Turret, rear top

25.0

Turret, front

53.0

VDR2 mount, left of driver intercom box

23.0

M2 IFV (Bradley)

AN/VDR2 mount on hull wall

9.1

M3 CFV

AN/VDR2 mount on hull wall

9.1

Mil 3 ARC

AN/VDR2 mount on hull wall by heater

3.6

Ml 09 SP howitzer

Near driver, left side

9.1

Rear right side

3.5

MSS recovery vehicle

Commander position

3.4

M577 command post

AN/VDR2 mount above TC's intercom

6.9

Carrier

box

551 armored recon

Near driver, right side

2.5

airborne assault vehicle

4.6

HUMMWV family (M99S)

AN/VDR2, by radio mount

1.7

2V2-ton truck

1.7

4- to 10-ton truck

2.0

M100S CUCV Series

AN/VDR2 mount on cab floor

2.0

Multistory building
Top floor

10.0

Lower floor

2.0

Frame house
First floor

2.0

Basement

10.0

Underground shelter

5,000.0

(3-foot earth cover)
Foxholes

10.0

1 * These CFs are for planning purposes only. Calculate the actual CF for a given shelter, [1

[using the following correlation factor formulas.

OD (Outside Dose Rate)
ID {Inside Dose Rate)

IDxCF

4-13

FM 3-7

Table 4-7. AN/VDR2 Attenuation Factor DIP Settings.

Row G

Row H

Row J

M577

M60 Tank

Ml Tank

Ml 13

M2/M3

M151

M880/M1008

M998

Table 4-8. Dose Criteria for Placing a Unit in a

Radiation Exposure Status Category.

Radiation Exposure Status

Numerical Criteria Total Cumulative Dose (cGy)

RES Zero

0 (no exposure)

RES1

> 0 - <J0

RES2

> 70 - j^lSO

RES3

>150

4-14

FM 3-7

Table 4-9. Nuclear radiation degree-of-risk exposure.

Radiation

Total past

Possible exposure criteria for a single operation that

status category

cumulative dose

will not result in exceeding the dost criteria for the

(See A&B)

(cGy) (See C)

stated degree of risk (cGy) (See D&E)

RES-0 Units

No explosure

Negligible risk: ^ 50
Moderate risk: ^ 70
Emergency risk: <160

RES-1 Units

More than 0.

Negligible risk: < 1 0

but less than or

Moderate risk: < 30

equal to 70

Emergerx^y risk: <110

RES-2 Units

More than 70,

Any further exposure is considered to exceed a

but less than or

negligible or moderate risk.

equal to 1 50

Emergency risk; < 40

RES-3 Units

More than 1 50

All further exposure will exceed the emergency risk.

NOTES:

A. Radiation status categories are based on previous exposure to radiation.

1 B. Reclassification of units from one radiation status category to a less serious one is
made by the commander, upon advice of the surgeon, after ample observation of actual

set of health of exposed personnel.

C. All exposures to radiation are considered total body and simply additive. No allowance
is made for body recovery from radiation injury.

D. Risk levels are graduated within each status category to provide more stringent criteria
as the total radiation dose accumulated becomes more serious. The exposure criteria
given for RES-1 and RES-2 units should be used only when the numerical value of a unit's
total past cumulative dose is unknown.

E. Each of the degrees of risk can be applied to radiation hazards resulting from enemy or
friendly weapons, or both, and from initial nuclear radiation resulting from planned friendly

1 supporting fire.

Radiation Injury

Immediate Injury but Delayed Effects

Since a radiation injury victim does not show symptoms immediately after exposure,
except for nausea and vomiting, these initial symptoms are not reliable by themselves
to evaluate casualties or treat patients. Currently, the only available method to
quickly estimate the radiation injury to a soldier is with a persormel dosimeter.
Without this dosimetry, many days must pass before definitive diagnostic techniques
of the secondary radiation exposure symptoms can provide an accurate estimate of
radiation injury.

Tolerance:

IM93 ± 10% certified and leak checked

1M147 ± 10% certified and leak checked

DT236 ± 30% or ± 30 cGy, whichever is less, with 95% confidence after 24

hours

4-15

FM 3-7

Self-aid and Buddy Aid
Key Factor in Nuclear Combat

Nuclear detonations can produce large numbers of blast, bum, and projectile injuries
that initially must be managed by individual soldiers trained in critical frost-aid
procedures.

Critical Period

The great physical damage to the surrounding area as a result of a nuclear detonation
will increase delays in medical assistance and evacuation. Quality self-aid and buddy
aid will improve casualty survival rates and conserve medical resources. Prompt
stabilization will ensure casualties can better withstand evacuation to appropriate
medical treatment facilities.

Radiation Guidance

Radiation guidance is the advice by the medical staff officer to the commander
concerning the medical effects of predicted and actual radiation received by a unit.
Commanders use medical advice and information to weigh the options of retaining
soldiers with radiation injury (with the possibility of increasing lethality) versus
entry into the medical support system.

Importance of Fitness and Wellness

The percentage of deaths that will occur from a given exposure is not a constant
value, and it is, in fact, changed by many conditions. For healthy soldiers, LD + 50
is estimated to be about 450 cGy if no medical care is provided, if there are no other
injuries, and if they are required to perform little physical labor. If, however,
soldiers with no other injuries are worked to exhaustion or are in poor general
health, LD + 50 is be reduced to approximately 300 cGy. Soldiers in good health,
promptly evacuated to a CONUS hospital, and provided extensive medical care are
expected to have their LD + 50 increased to 600 cGy. Soldiers' fitness and health
are, therefore, critical factors for survival on a nuclear battlefield.

4-16

FM 3-7

Table 4-10. Effects of radiation exposure on combat personnel.

Dose*

Range

(cGyl

Initial

Symptoms**

Time of
Initial

Symptoms

(approx)

Performance
Capability
(mid-dose range)

Final Disposition

None to

slightincidence of
transient headache
and nauses,
vomiting in up to
5% of personnel in
upper part of range

6 — 1 2 hours

Combat effective

Duty

150

Transient mild
nausea and vomiting
in 5%— 30% of
personnel, vomiting
in up to 5% of
personnel in upper
part of range.

2 — 20 hours

Combat effective

Duty. No deaths.

151

300

Transient mild to
moderate nausea
arid vomiting in
20%— 70% of
personnel, mild to
moderate fatigue
and weakness in
25%— 60% of
personnel.

2 hours to 2
days

DT: PD from 4 hours
until recovery.

UT: PD from 6 hours
until 1 day.

PD: 6 weeks until
recovery.

Duty; less than 5%
deaths at low end of
exposure range;
death may occur in
1 0% of personnel.

301

500

Transient moderate
nausea and vomiting
in 50%— 90% of
personnel, moderate
fatigue in
50%—90% of
personnel.

2 hours to 3
days

DT: PD from 3 hours
until 2 weeks, for
death or recovery.
UT: PD from 4 hours
to 2 weeks until
death or recovery.

Duty at low end of
exposure range; less
than 10% deaths.

At high end of
exposure range,
death may occur in
more than 50% of
personnel beginning
after 4 weeks.

501

800

Moderate to severe
nausea and vomiting
in 80%— 100 of
personnel.

Within 1 hour

DT: PD from 2 hours
until 3 weeks. Cl
from 3 weeks until
death.

At low end of
exposure range
death may occur in
more than 50% of
personnel beginning
after 4 weeks. At
high end of
exposure range
99%, beginning
after 3 weeks.

4-17

FM 3-7

Table 4-10. Effects of radiation exposure on combat personnel

(continued)

Dose*

Range

(cGy)

initial

Symptoms**

Time of
Initial

Symptoms

(approx)

Performance
Capability
(mid-dose range)

Final Disposition

801

Moderate to severe
fatigue and
weakness in
90%— 100% of
personnel.

2 hours to 6
weeks

DT: PD from 2
hours to 2 days and
7 days until 4
weeks.

Moderate to severe

45 minutes to

DT: PD 1 hour until

1 ,000 cGy; death in

1.500

nausea, vomiting,
disorientation, and
dizziness in 100%
of personnel;
moderate fluid loss
in 80% of personnel.

2-1 }2 days

6 hours and 1-1 12
days until 1 week.
Cl: 6 hours until
1-1/2 days and 1
week until death.
UT: PD 1-1/2 hours
until 8 days.

Cl: 8 days until
death.

1 to 3 weeks.

DT = demanding task
UT = undemanding task

PD = performance decrement (25% - 75% of preirradiation performance level)

Cl =£ combat ineffective (<25% of preirradiation performance level)

* Doses are free-in-air dose values.

* * Vomiting and nausea from tension or fear was reported by 20% of US combat troops
In a survey of WWII veterans, particularly in the presence of horrible sights and smells.
Extreme fatigue and weakness are also common symptoms of combat stress (battle
fatigue). Therefore, none of these symptoms alone are a reliable indicator of the amount
of radiation exposure a person may have received.

The effects listed in Table 4-10 represent a continuous exposure spectrum broken into
dose range segments. When looking at symptoms/performance, the high end of one
segment is very close to the low end of the next segment.

4-18

Table 4- 1 1. Radii of Vulnerability.

FM 3-7

Severe Damage ||

Randomly Parked
Helicopters

Light

Observ

p»

(*»

B.70o1

6,200

7.100

NOTES:

1 . Radii listed are distances at which a 5 percent Incidence of effect occurs.

2. HOB used is 60W 1/3 meters.

3. To obtain a radius of vulnerability, enter the Yield Column of the nearest listed yield. If exactly halfway between yields, enter with larger yield.
Data listed in table above is for training use only. Use the data in FM 101-31-2 (S) whenever possible.

4. All values have been rourxled up to the next 10 meters.

0 (0
o> c
m n
a ^
O H

r**

3,200

Supply

depot

N :

ID '

r«.

p"*

q I

fM*

Moderate Damage

Towed

Arty

♦

p«» 1

8
0> 1

1.300

1,600

300

1,300

009*1

009' L

Wheeled vehicles

2.200

003*2

3,000

EARTH

Sheiter

(0 j

p»

1.000

1,400

1.600

j ® i

1 o>
c
: *c
! «

1 >

: o
: o)

00 ,

1.400

1,960

APC

1.260

1,300

1.900

1,960

^ 0
CL ^

1.300

1.900

2,100

ID*

OOO'S

1 2.000

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