News

Protect yourself with understanding of mission-oriented protective postures

  • Published
  • By Sandra Pishner
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Buttons - check; zippers - check; buddy - check. Of all the checks you do when moving into a mission-oriented protective posture (MOPP), the buddy check may well be the most important.

MOPP levels are different stages for wear of your ground crew ensemble designed to protect yourself from chemical, biological, and nuclear contamination. In MOPP 0, Reservists wear none of their CBRNE protection, but have it available at all times. MOPPs 1 through 4 direct the wear of various elements of the ground crew ensemble, with MOPP 4 finding you in the full ensemble.

"You should be able to go from MOPP 0 to MOPP 4 in eight minutes," said Staff Sgt. Palmer Sather, 446th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management flight. "You need to work fast. When donning your mask and hood, 15 seconds is the optimal time for getting it on and properly sealed."

Getting a proper seal is just one key element in protecting yourself, according to Tech. Sgt. Brian Fagan, also with the 446th CES emergency management flight.

"The most important aspects after donning your chem suit are the buddy check, your seal, and getting all the buttons and zippers secured," said Sergeant Fagan.

The most common mistake made in wearing the ground crew ensemble is not getting the three button snaps in the back," according to the two NCOs from emergency management. Making sure you keep your mask carrier closed is also important.

"This is to keep any debris or contamination out of your mask so it doesn't get damaged," said Sergeant Sather.

For the upcoming operational readiness exercise Sept. 12-18, Reservists should ensure they not only understand the different MOPP levels and how to properly wear their ground crew ensembles, but how to properly mark the outfits.

"Masking tape is what you need to use to mark your suits as M-9 paper. In the last ORE, we had a couple of guys 'killed' because they had used a different kind of tape," said Sergeant Sather.

According to Sergeant Sather, the two inch masking tape used to simulate M-9 paper should be wrapped around the ground crew ensemble at both wrists, upper arms, and ankles. But, do not write on the tape.

"However, everyone needs to use olive drab tape to mark the front and back of their helmet, front and back of their mask hood and over the right breast pocket of your outer most garment. This tape should have your rank, first and last name, and USAF."

It's important to make sure you have everything you need with you at all times. For more details, Reservists should refer to their Airmen's Manual and the ATSO Joe guide, which can be found on the 446th ORI SharePoint page.

Stay alert and vigilant. Don't get so focused on one particular task that you overlook your buddies. Always be aware of other people. Think before you act so you can avoid those dumb moves, advises Sergeants Sather and Fagan. Bottom line, set yourself and the wing up for success by being informed and prepared.