ammunition storage and handling ashore -
TRANSCRIPT
CHAPTER 12
AMMUNITION STORAGE AND HANDLING ASHORE
Ammunition storage ashore applies to the storageof explosives, ammunition, and ammunitioncomponents in two different types of environments andoperational conditions. When ammunition is stored atpermanently established storage locations, such asnaval air stations, naval stations, or other ammunitionactivities, extensive safety and procedural requirementsexist. However, strategic operations may necessitate theestablishment of ammunition storage facilities atadvanced bases. Although governing regulations existfor the storage of ammunition at advanced bases, theyare not as extensive as those governing permanentstorage requirements and regulations. The followingtext covers ammunition storage ashore and ammunitionstorage ashore for advanced bases.
AMMUNITION STORAGE ASHORE
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify am-munition magazines used ashore. Recognizethe explosive safety quantity-distance (ESQD)requirements. Recognize the hazards posed byvarious classes of ammunition. Identify storagecapability groups and their use. Identify thefacilities used to store ammunition at advancedbases.
All units of the Naval Shore and Marine CorpsEstablishments that produce, store, ship, or otherwisehandle ammunition, explosives, and other hazardousmaterials are under the management and control ofNAVSEASYSCOM. Also, NAVSEASYSCOMmanages and controls the technical aspects ofassembling, maintaining, storing, issuing, shipping,and handling ammunition, explosives, or otherhazardous materials.
AMMUNITION IDENTIFICATION
Ammunition identification is an important part ofordnance handling and administration. Ammunitionidentification tells you the service/nonservice type ofammunition, class of explosive contained in the round,Mark (Mk) and modification (Mod) numbers, lotnumbers, and color codes representing the explosivehazards.
Service Ammunition
Ammunition intended for operational use isclassified as service ammunition. The warheadcontains explosives, pyrotechnics, or chemical agentfiller. If required, the propellant is of service or reducedcharge weight. Aircraft service ammunition isidentified as either armament (kill stores) or ordnance(search stores).
Nonservice Ammunition
Ammunition used for training personnel isclassified as nonservice ammunition. This ammunitionmay be actual service (tactical) quality or may bespecially modified or loaded practice ammunition, inerttraining, inert dummy/drill, or exercise/recoverableammunition.
PRACTICE/TRAINING AMMUNITION.—This ammunition is designed for training, practice, orsystems testing purposes. It is actually launched, fired,or dropped. It may be a modification of serviceammunition designed specifically for practice. Practiceammunition may or may not contain explosive orpyrotechnic materials. Practice ammunition may beeither expendable or recoverable, depending upon thedevice involved.
DUMMY DRILL/INERT AMMUNITION.—This ammunition is completely inert ammunition. It isused to represent the service ammunition for displaypurposes, testing weapons, and weapons handlingoperations. It is also used to develop assembly, testing,and handling proficiency of personnel without actuallyfiring or launching the ammunition.
EXERCISE/RECOVERABLE AMMUNI-TION.— This is service ammunition that is functionalin all respects except for the explosive payload. Thepayload furnishes operational data by the substitutionof recoverable exercise components. Pyrotechnics, dyemarker, or explosive fittings may be attached to orincorporated in the ammunition.
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COLOR INTERPRETATION
Yellow (1) Identifies high explosives.
(2) Indicates the presence of explosive, either,
(a) sufficient to cause the ammunition to function as a highexplosive, or
(b) particularly hazardous to the user.
Brown (1) Identifies rocket motors.
(2) Indicates the presence of explosive, either,
(a) sufficient to cause the ammunition to function as a lowexplosive, or
(b) particularly hazardous to the user.
*Gray (1) Identifies ammunition that contains irritant or toxic agents whenused as an overall body color except for underwater ordnance.
Gray with Red Band(s) (1) Indicates the ammunition contains an irritant (harassing) agent.
Gray with Dark Green Band(s) (1) Indicates the ammunition contains a toxic agent.
*Black (1) Identifies armor-defeating ammunition, except on underwaterordnance.
Silver/Aluminum (1) Identifies countermeasure ammunition.
Light Green (1) Identifies smoke or marker ammunition.
Light Red (1) Identifies incendiary ammunition or indicates the presence ofhighly flammable material.
*White (1) Indicates illuminating ammunition or ammunition producing acolored light; exceptions, underwater ordnance, guided missiles,and rocket motors.
Light Blue (1) Identifies ammunition used for training or firing practice.
*Orange (1) Identifies ammunition used for tracking or recovery.
Bronze (1) Identifies Dummy/Drill/Inert ammunition used for handling andloading training.
Nonsignificant Colors
Olive Drab (1) All ammunition items.
Black (1) For lettering.
White (1) For lettering.
(2) For guided missiles and rocket motors.
*NOTES: The following colors when applied as stated have NO identification color codingsignificance:
a. The colors GRAY, ORANGE, BLACK, WHITE, BRICK RED OR GREEN on underwater ord-.nance, such as mines and torpedoes, and the color WHITE on guided missiles or rocket motors.
b. The colors BLACK and WHITE when used for lettering.
c. The color WHITE when used in diamond shaped figures on ammunition.
Table 12-1.—Ammunition Color Codes
Painting
Painting (table 12-1) is the application of the finalbody coating to ammunition, ammunition components,or ammunition containers by authorized activities.Usually, paint color identifies the use or explosivehazards of the ammunition; however, sometimes it hasno meaning.
Marking
Marking is the application of colored spots, bands,or symbols on ammunition, ammunition components,or ammunition containers. Markings, by their color orshape, identify ammunition fillers or the presence ofspecific ammunition components.
Chemical filler ammunition, ammunition com-ponents, and ammunition containers are identified bybands that are color-coded (table 12-1). Markingsymbols placed on a line parallel to the colored bandsidentifies chemical fillers.
Lettering
Lettering is the use of letters, words, abbreviations,or numerals on ammunition, ammunition components,or ammunition containers. Lettering is put onammunition by die stamping, stenciling, decals,etching, or rubber-stamping. Lettering identifies thetype, mark and modification, ammunition lot number,and loading information of the ammunition item.Lettering applied in black or white has no color-codesignificance.
Mark and Modification Designation
The Mk number is an Arabic numeral andrepresents a basic design. A modification (Mod)number to represent a less than major change in designfollows it. For example, the mark/modification numberassigned to a general-purpose bomb without a changeto the basic design is Mk 82 Mod O. If a minor changeto the basic design is incorporated, it is designated asMk 82 Mod 1. If further changes are incorporated, the
modification designations are assigned in sequence,Mod 2, Mod 3, Mod 4, and so forth.
Some explosive devices and ordnance or armament(such as cluster weapons and bomblets used in clusterweapons) are designated by groups of letters andnumbers. An example of this type designation isBLU-7A/B (table 12-2).
U.S. Army ammunition retains the Army identifierthat uses a letter, numeral, and letter and numeralsystem. For example, the model is designated M23. Thefirst modification of this model is designated M23A1,and subsequent modifications are designated byM23A2, M23A3, etc. If the Navy and Army jointlydeveloped an item, the letters AN (Army/Navy)precedes the model identifying designation. Forexample, a model is designated AN-M173. The firstmodification of this model is designated AN-M173A1.Later modifications are designated as AN-M173A2,AN-M173A3, etc.
Department of Defense Identification Code(DODIC) and Navy Ammunition Logistic Code(NALC)
The Department of Defense Identification Code(DODIC) is a four-digit code assigned by the DefenseLogistics Services Center (DLSC). It identifiesammunition and explosive items (non-nuclear) withinthe supply system applicable to all the armed forces.The Navy Ammunition Logistic Code (NALC) is afour-digit code assigned by Ships Parts Control Center(SPCC). It identifies Navy-unique items of ordnance.
The DODIC and NALC are interchangeable termsand are included as part of the letter identificationcontained on ammunition and ammunitioncomponents. These codes are used specifically forlogistic control and ammunition administration.
If an ammunition item or ammunition componenthas been modified, a DODIC/NALC code is assigned tothe modified item. For example, Mk 105 Mod O isassigned code A811 and Mk 105 Mod 1 is assignedcode A894. A complete listing of DODICs and NALCs
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Bomb or Mine
Seventh Model and First Modification
Unit Must Be Expended on Mission
BLU
7A
/B
Table 12-2.—Item Identification Designations for Cluster Munitions
is contained in Navy Ammunition Logistics Codes,NAVAIR 11-1-116B/TW010-AA-ORD-030.
Ammunition Lot Number
An ammunition lot is a quantity of ammunitionassembled from uniform components under similar
conditions. A lot is expected to function in a uniformmanner. Each ammunition lot (table 12-3) is assigned acode number (ammunition lot number) that identifiesall ammunition items assembled as part of that lot.For specific ammunition lot numbers, you shouldrefer to Identification of Ammunition, NAVSEASW010-AF-ORD-010/NAVAIR 11-1-117.
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KEY DEFINITION
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
Lot sequence number
Manufacturer's identification symbol
Month of production (two digit)
Year of production (two digit)
Month of production (single alpha)
JAN—A MAY—E SEP—JFEB—B JUN—F OCT—KMAR—C JUL—G NOV—LAPR—D AUG—H DEC—M
Interfix number
Lot suffix (alpha)
Example:
Lot Number,Method 1: 11 ABC 0588
Key: (a) (b) (c)(d)
(Note that (c) and (d) will be used to compute service life.)
Example:
Lot Number,Method 2: XYE 88 E 001-011A
Key: (b) (d) (e) (f)(a)(g)
(Note that (d) and (e) will be used to compute service life.)
Table 12-3.—Derivation of Lot Number
MAGAZINES
Explosives and ammunition are stowed inmagazines or areas designated for the specificmaterials. NAVSEASYSCOM designs and designatesall magazines or storage areas. The type and amount ofmaterial that may be stowed in any magazine dependson the type of magazine in relation to the explosivesafety quantity-distance requirements.
Types of Magazines
Magazines located at naval air stations and othernaval installations are of various sizes, types ofconstruction, and classes, depending upon the nature ofthe material to be stowed. Magazines are designated ashigh-explosive magazines, smokeless-powder mag-azines, and ready-service magazines according to theirintended use. Magazines are further classified by typeof design—surface, subsurface, arch-type, earth-covered, or barricaded.
Recently designed magazines used to storesmokeless powder, pyrotechnics, loaded projectiles,fixed ammunition, small-arms ammunition, and otherfire or missile hazard materials are of two generaltypes—the rectangular, earth-covered magazine andthe concrete, triple-arch, earth-covered magazine.
1. The rectangular, earth-covered magazine (50feet by 100 feet) is constructed of reinforcedconcrete throughout.
2. The concrete, triple-arch, earth-coveredmagazine has three arches. The combinedarches make up a single magazine; however,each arch is separated by a minimum of 10 feetat the door, and the space is filled with dirt. Thestandard floor size of each arch in thetriple-arch construction is 25 feet by 80 feet.Each of the three arches may be used for adifferent type of compatible material.
Magazines constructed since 1928 that are used forstoring high explosive, bomb-type ammunition, andother explosive hazard materials are made of reinforcedconcrete, single-arch, earth-covered type constructionand they are barricaded at the entrance end. Thesemagazines have been constructed in three sizes:
1. The 25 feet by 50 feet and the 25 feet by 40 feetsizes are suitable for the stowage of 250,000pounds net weight of explosives.
2. The 25 feet by 80 feet size is suitable for thestowage of 500,000 pounds net weight ofexplosives.
Additionally, the following miscellaneous types ofmagazines may be found at certain establishments.
KEYPORT - The keyport magazine is earth-covered and arch-shaped with a prefabricated concreteconstruction. It has interior floor dimensions of 6 feetby 8 feet 8 inches. The height of the arch isapproximately 6 feet.
BOX - A box magazine is of concrete construction,rectangular shape, and normally measures 12 feet by 17feet.
CORBETTA - A corbetta magazine is of concreteconstruction and is shaped like a beehive or dome.
GALLERY - A gallery magazine is a tunnel orcave, and the dimensions will vary.
MISCELLANEOUS OR NONSTANDARD -The physical dimensions of the miscellaneous ornonstandard magazine depend on the type of stowedmaterial and the location of the magazine.
OPEN STORAGE - The type and amount ofexplosives stowed in open stowage depend on the sizeand location of the storage area.
Explosive Safety Quantity-Distance (ESQD)Requirements
Explosive Safety Quantity Distance (ESQD)requirements apply to the concentration ofammunition, explosives, and other hazardous materialsat Naval Shore Establishments for development;manufacturing; test and maintenance; storage, loadingand off-loading of vehicles, railcars and aircraft;disposal; and all related handling incidents.
Explosive Safety Quantity Distance (ESQD)requirements are based on records of actual fires andexplosions involving ammunition and explosives.ESQD requirements safeguard personnel againstpossible serious injury or equipment destruction frompossible fires or explosions. These requirements alsoprotect the inhabitants of nearby communities, privateand public property, and the Naval Shore Establishmentpersonnel. These requirements keep the loss ofvaluable ammunition stores (including inert ordnanceitems) to a minimum if there were a fire or explosion.
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The Department of Defense (DOD) ESQD hazardclassification system is based on a systemrecommended for international use by the UnitedNations Organization (UNO). The UNO system hasnine classes of hazardous material; but, DOD only usesthree of the nine classes—Class 1, explosives; Class 2,Division 3, poison A; and Class 6, poisonous (toxic)and infectious substances. Table 12-4 identifies each ofthe nine classes.
In reviewing table 12-4, you can see that someitems are placed in classes other than Class 1. SinceDOD uses only Class 1 items for explosives, Class 1assignments have been made. However, to maintainidentity, DOD places these items in Class 1 for storageonly until DOD implements other classes. As an AO,you are involved with the storage of Class 1 material;therefore, the information contained in this section onlydeal with Class 1 classifications.
DOD Hazard Class 1 is subdivided into divisions 1through 5, based on the character and predominance ofthe associated hazards and the potential for causingpersonnel casualties or property damage. Thesesubdivision are not based upon compatibility groups or
intended use. The division within Class 1 and theexpected hazard for each division is listed in table 12-5.
MASS-DETONATING HAZARD MATE-RIALS (CLASS 1, DIVISION 1).—Damage frommass-detonating hazard materials is caused byconcussion or blast or by sympathetic detonation.Prescribed distances between piles of these materialsand between magazines containing these materialsmust be maintained to minimize the possibility ofsympathetic detonation or propagation. Ammunitionand explosives that are considered mass-detonatinghazards are Hazard Class 1, Division 1.
NON-MASS-DETONATING HAZARD, FRAG-MENT-PRODUCING MATERIALS (CLASS 1,DIVISION 2).—The principal hazards for itemswithin this division are fragment and blast, eitherindividually or in combination, depending on suchfactors as storage configuration, type of packing, andquantity. The designated minimum distances are basedupon the limited range of fragments. These are thedistances that must be used for protection of inhabitedbuildings and public traffic routes. Since fragment-producing materials can be grouped according to the
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CLASS TYPE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
1
2*
3
4
5
6*
7
8
9
Ammunition and explosives, DOT Classes A, B, and C; Blasting Agents
Compressed gases, flammable and nonflammable, Poison gases (Poison A)
Flammable liquids
Flammable solids or substances
Oxidizing materials
Poisonous substances (Poison B); Irritating materials; Etiological agents
Radioactive materials
Corrosive materials
Miscellaneous dangerous substances (other regulated materials)
*Includes ammunition without explosive components which contain toxic chemical agents, andcontainers of toxic chemical agents in bulk. Formerly ESQD Class 8.
Table 12-4.—United Nations Organization Hazard Classes
range of the fragments produced, four fragmentdistance categories have been established. This permitsflexibility of storage. Most fragments produced byincidents in this division will fall within one of fourspecified minimum distances—400, 800, 1,200, and1,800 feet.
MASS FIRE HAZARD MATERIALS (CLASS1, DIVISION 3).—Items in this division burnvigorously. There is little or no possibility forextinguishing them in a storage situation. Normally,explosions will be confined to pressure ruptures ofcontainers and will not produce propagating shockwaves or damaging blast overpressure beyond specifieddistances. A severe fire may result from the tossingabout of burning container materials, propellant, orother flaming debris. Toxic effects, such as burningpyrotechnic items, will not normally extend beyond theinhabited building distances specified for this division.
MODERATE FIRE HAZARD, NO BLASTMATERIALS (CLASS 1, DIVISION 4).—Items inthis division present a fire hazard with no blast hazardand virtually no fragmentation or toxic hazard beyondthe fire hazard clearance specified for high-riskmaterials. However, separate facilities for storage andhandling of this division should not be less than 100feet from other facilities. However, if the facilities areof fire-resistive construction, they may be 50 feet fromeach other. If devices containing explosives are suchthat accidental ignition during storage or transport willnot cause external damage to the devices, either by fire,smoke, heat, loud noise, or by visible damage to theouter packaging, they are not considered Class 1 items.These devices may be considered inert for storagepurposes and marked AMMUNITION NON-EXPLOSIVE for transport purposes.
Certain articles within the division that contain oneounce or less of explosives have (based on test results)been classified as Class 1, Division 4S. These articlesmay be considered inert for storage purposes, and theyare not subject to explosive transportation regulations.Articles containing larger quantities of explosives, alsoclassified as Class 1, Division 4S, may be consideredinert for storage purposes. However, they must bereviewed on an individual basis to determine whetherexplosive transportation regulations are applicable.
VERY INSENSITIVE EXPLOSIVE ITEMMATERIALS (CLASS 1, DIVISION 5).—Items inthis division are considered very insensitive when notstored or transported with other Class 1 materials. DODconsiders these items to be the same as Class 1,Division 1, Compatibility Group D. There is very littleprobability of accidental explosion or transition fromdeflagration to detonation. The materials within thisdivision are shipped as ESQD Hazard Class 1, Division5. They are stored as Class 1, Division 1, CompatibilityGroup D.
Normally, technical manuals do not present thehazard class, division, and compatibility group as theyare written in previous paragraphs. For example, anitem classified as Class 1, Division 5, CompatibilityGroup D, is written as Class 1.5D; or for an item inClass 1, Division 4, Compatibility Group S is written asClass 1.4S.
Storage Compatibility Groups
Ammunition and explosives are assigned to one oftwelve storage compatibility groups (A through H, J, K,L, and S).
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DIVISION DESIGNATOR TYPE OF HAZARD
1
2
3
4
5
MASS DETONATING
NON-MASS DETONATING, FRAGMENT PRODUCING
MASS FIRE
MODERATE FIRE, NO BLAST
VERY INSENSITIVE
Table 12-5.—Hazard Class 1 Division Designators and Types of Hazards
GROUP A - Group A items are initiatingexplosives. These are bulk initiating explosives thathave the necessary sensitivity to heat, friction, orpercussion to make them suitable for use as initiatingelements in an explosive train. Wet lead oxide, wet leadstyphnate, wet mercury fulminate, wet tetracene, dryRDX, and dry PETN are examples of initiatingexplosives.
GROUP B - Group B items are detonators andsimilar initiating devices. These are items containingexplosives that are designed to initiate or continue thefunctioning of an explosive train. Detonators, blastingcaps, small arms primers, and fuzes without two ormore safing features are examples of Group B items.
GROUP C - Group C items are bulk solidpropellants, propelling charges, devices containingpropellant with or without a means of ignition, anditems that will deflagrate, explode or detonate uponinitiation. Examples of Group C items are single-,double-, and triple-base propellants, compositepropellants, rocket motors (solid propellant), andammunition with inert projectiles.
GROUP D - Group D items are secondarydetonating explosive substances or black powder orarticles containing a secondary detonating explosivesubstance, in each case without means of initiation andwithout a propelling charge, or articles containing aprimary explosive substance and containing two ormore effective protective features. Examples of theseitems are explosive switches or valves, and otherammunition items packaged to meet the criteriaestablished for this group.
GROUP E - Group E items are ammunition thatcontains HE without its own means of initiation with apropulsive charge (other than one containing aflammable or hypergolic liquid). Examples of theseitems are artillery ammunition, rockets, and guidedmissiles.
GROUP F - Group F items are articles containing asecondary detonating explosive substance with itsmeans of initiation, with a propelling charge (other thanone containing flammable liquid or hypergolic liquid)or without a propelling charge. Examples are itemsinitiated by means of a bouchon-firing device,grenades, sounding devices, and similar items that havean in-line explosive train in the initiator.
GROUP G - Group G items is fireworks, andilluminating, incendiary, smoke (including HC) ortear-producing munitions other than those munitionsthat are water activated or contain white phosphorus,
flammable liquid or gel. This group includesammunition that, upon functioning, results in anincendiary, illumination, lachrymatory, smoke, orsound effect. Examples of these items are flares,signals, incendiary or illuminating ammunition, andother smoke or tear-producing devices.
GROUP H - Group H items contains explosivesand white phosphorus or other pyrophoric material.Ammunition in this group contains filler, which isspontaneously flammable when exposed to theatmosphere. Examples of these items are whitephosphorus (WP), white phosphorus plasticized(PWP), or other ammunition containing pyrophoricmaterial.
GROUP J - Ammunition in this group containsboth explosives and flammable liquids or gels. Thisammunition contains flammable liquids or gels otherthan those that are spontaneously flammable whenexposed to water or to the atmosphere. Examples ofthese items are liquid- or gel-filled incendiaryammunition, fuel air explosive (FAE) devices,flammable-fueled missiles and torpedoes.
GROUP K - Ammunition in group K contains bothexplosives and toxic chemical agents. Ammunition inthis group contains chemicals specifically designed forincapacitating effects that are more severe thanlachrymation. Examples of these items are artillery ormortar ammunition (fuzed or unfuzed), grenades, androckets or bombs filled with a lethal or incapacitatingchemical agent.
GROUP L - Ammunition in-group L is notincluded in other compatibility groups. Ammunition inthis group has characteristics that don't permit storagewith other types of ammunition, explosives, ordissimilar ammunition within this group. Examples ofthese items are water-activated devices, prepackagedhypergolic liquid-fueled rocket engines, certainfuel-air-explosive (FAE) devices, TPA (thickenedTEA), and damaged or suspect ammunition of anyother group. Types of ammunition having similarhazards can be stored together but cannot be mixed withother groups.
GROUP S - Ammunition in this group presents nosignificant hazard. It is designed or packed so all theaccidental functioning hazards are confined within thepackage, unless the package has been degraded by fire.In this case, all blast or projection effects are limited tothe extent they will not significantly hinder fire-fightingoperations. Examples of these items are thermalbatteries, explosive switches or valves, and other
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ammunition items that are packaged to meet the criteriaestablished for this group.
Ammunition and explosives are assigned tocompatibility groups. When stored within theirassigned group, ammunition and explosives can bestored together without significantly increasing either
the probability of an accident or, for a given quantity,the magnitude of the effects of such an accident. Themixing of storage compatibility groups is permitted byNAVSEASYSCOM, as shown in figure 12-1. Themixing of storage compatibility groups other than thoseshown in figure 12-1 must be approved byNAVSEASYSCOM.
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Figure 12-1.—Storage compatibility mixture chart.
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DIMENSIONS(nominal)
NORMAL USE NORMALEXPLOSIVE
LIMIT
LETTERDESIGNATOR
25' × 80' arch type (igloo)
25' × 50' arch type (igloo)
25' × 40' arch type (igloo)
39' × 44' or 32' × 44' (warhead type)
12' × 17' (box type)
Miscellaneous or nonstandard size
Open storage
25' × 20' arch type (igloo)
52' dome (Corbetta type)
Dimensions vary (gallery or tunnel type)
10' × 14'
10' × 7'
6' × 8'8" (Keyport type)
52’ × 97’ (box type A)
62’ × 76’ (box type B)
High explosives
High explosives
High explosives
High explosives
Black powder
High explosives
High explosives
Fuze anddetonator
High explosives
High explosives
Fuze anddetonator
Fuze anddetonator
High explosives
High Explosives
High Explosives
500,000 lb
250,000 lb
250,000 lb
500,000 lb
20,000 lb
Dependentupon size,location,construction
Dependentupon size,location
70,000 lb
500,000 lb
250,000 lb
15,000 lb
7,500 lb
4,000 lb
500,000 lb
500,000 lb
A
B
B
W
E
X
R
F
D
G
H
H
K
A
A
Table 12-6.—Magazine Designators for Mass Detonating Hazard of High Explosives (Bulk, Depth Charges, Mines, Warheads,Bombs, etc.), Fuzes, Detonators, Exploders, and Black Powder
IDENTIFICATION OF FACILITIES
Buildings and magazines, including open storagesites that contain ammunition, explosives, or chemicaland inert components, are marked according to astandard system of identification so you can rapidlyidentify the hazards associated with their contents. Thisidentification and numbering system is used in additionto any other numbers on the buildings. These standardidentification markings are stamped out over othermarkings, if present. The standard identificationsystem consists of the magazine designator and thesymbol indicator.
The magazine designator is a three-group symbol,composed of numbers and letters. It identifies amagazine by location of the magazine group, thenumber of the magazine within the group, and the typeof magazine construction. The magazine groupnumber, the type of magazine and capacity letter(s),and the magazine sequence number form thethree-group symbol that makes up the magazinedesignator.
Magazine Group Number
The magazine group number is the first number ofthe magazine designator symbol. It shows the magazinegroup in which the magazine is located. Eachphysically separated group of magazines or, at smallerstations, each noncontiguous magazine area is assigneda number, making it easy to identify the group. Thegroup numbers begin with 1 and continue in ascendingnumerical order. If only one magazine group exists, thenumber 1 is used. For example, the numeral 4 in the firstposition of the magazine designator 4XTX4 indicatesthat this magazine is located within magazine group 4.
Magazine Type and Capacity Letter(s)
The magazine type and capacity letter(s) shows thetype and capacity of the magazine. For this reason,magazines of certain sizes are assigned a letterdesignation as indicated in tables 12-6, 12-7, 12-8, and12-9. To show the type of magazine, for example, theletter T is added if the magazine is earth-covered andbarricaded. If the magazine is earth-covered but notbarricaded the letter C is added. If the magazine is notearth-covered but is barricaded, the letter S is added.Therefore, in the magazine designator 4XTX4, theletter X in the second position indicates that themagazine size is miscellaneous or nonstandard, and it isnormally used for storing high explosives. Also, the
normal explosive storage limit depends on themagazine's size, location, and type of construction.
The explosive limits contained in tables 12-4through 12-7 are maximum capacities. They are basedon magazine design and construction characteristics.These limits are further subject to the ESQDconsiderations discussed previously. Additionallimitations are shown in the magazine designator.When the ESQD relationship, as indicated in the tables,doesn't permit using the explosive capacity design of astandard magazine because of insufficient separatingdistances, the letter X, Y, or Z is added to the designator.These letters indicate the magazine contains massdetonation hazards, mass fire hazards, or fragment-producing hazards, respectively. For example, in themagazine designator 4XTX4, the letter X in the fourthposition tells you that the magazine doesn't have asufficient separating distance from other structures ormagazines.
Before 1985, naval facilities used to store ormaintain ammunition or explosives used a standardtwo-part system of identification—a color-hazardindicator and a magazine designator. The color hazardindicator has been replaced by a system of fire,chemical hazard, and fire-fighting directionsymbols. When possible, mount placards at locationsthat are visible for a minimum distance of 500 feet inthe daytime. Placards are placed on the road atdistances of not less than 500 feet to indicate themagazine contents. This is required when vegetation orcurves in the road obstruct visibility. When the contentsof the magazine are changed or removed, the placardsare also changed or removed. These placards aredisplayed to help fire fighters identify, from a safedistance, the type of hazards involved so they candetermine the types of equipment and procedures touse.
REVIEW NUMBER 1
Q1. Mandatory regulations governing the storageof ammunition ashore are found in ________.
Q2. What prefabricated, concrete-constructedmagazine is earth-covered and arch-shaped?
Q3. What is the normal size of a box-type mag-azine?
Q4. What concrete-constructed magazine isshaped like a beehive or dome?
Q5. What magazine type consists of a tunnel orcave that has varied dimensions?
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DIMENSIONS(nominal)
MAXIMUM EXPLOSIVE LIMIT LETTERDESIGNATOR
50' × 100'
25' × 80' triple-arch
25' dome (Corbetta type)
Miscellaneous or non-standard size
500,000 lb
500,000 lb(total for threearches)
500,000 lb
150,000 lb
P
P
D
Z
Table 12-8.—Magazine Designators for Fragment Hazard of Projectile and Fixed Ammunition
DIMENSIONS(nominal)
TYPE LETTERDESIGNATOR
All inert storehouses SH
Table 12-9.—Magazine Designators for Miscellaneous Magazines
DIMENSIONS(nominal)
NORMAL EXPLOSIVELIMIT
LETTERDESIGNATOR
50' × 100'
25' × 80' triple-arch
52' dome (Corbetta type)
50' × 60'
30' × 50'
25' × 48'
25' × 40'
Miscellaneous or non-standard size
1,000,000 lb
1,000,000 lb
1,000,000 lb
300,000 lb
125,000 lb
125,000 lb
125,000 lb
Dependent uponlocation, size,and construction
L
L
D
M
N
N
N
Y
Table 12-7.—Magazine Designators for Fire Hazard of Powder (Bulk or Semifixed Ammunition), Pyrotechnics, Ignition Fuzes andPrimers, Small Arms, Smoke Drums, and Explosive-Loaded Chemical Ammunition
Q6. What types of items are contained in storagecompatibility Group B?
Q7. Black powder belongs in compatibilitystorage group _____.
Q8. What type of ammunition is found incompatibility Group S?
Q9. The first number in a magazine designatorsymbol shows the __________.
Q10. The letter T in the third position of a magazinedesignator indicates that the ________.
AMMUNITION STORAGE ASHOREFOR ADVANCED BASES
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify am-munition storage ashore for advanced bases toinclude facilities, magazines, and handlingrequirements.
Advanced base is the general term for a temporarybase that is in or near a forward area outside the zone ofthe interior. The primary mission of an advanced base isto support wartime operations of the armed forces.Advanced bases are established to perform one or moreof the following functions: to hold threatened strategicareas; to protect, or be part of, a line of communicationsand supply; to serve as a base for direct offensiveoperations; or to serve as a base for mounting orsupporting further offensives.
If a valid reason for not complying with storage andhandling regulations/instructions at advanced bases isnot contained in NAVSEA OP 5, VOL 1, you need torefer to Ammunition Ashore, NAVSEA OP 5, VOL 3.
AMMUNITION STORING AND HANDLINGFACILITIES
When you establish an advanced base, divide thestoring and handling facilities into areas. These areasshould correspond to the functions required by themission of the base, to make ordnance-handlingoperations easier and smoother, and to isolate hazards.Areas at advanced bases are designated as magazine,renovation, disposal, pier, enemy ammunition, andadministration and personnel areas. These areas arediscussed briefly in the following paragraphs.
Magazine Areas. Provide two or more magazineor storage areas for each advanced base. This allowsyou to disperse ammunition stows, and makes it easierto receive and issue ammunition. The primary objectivein dispersing ammunition is to prevent the complete
loss of a single type of ammunition because of fire,accidental explosion, or hostile action. Ampleprovision should be made for expansion during theinitial planning of magazine areas.
Renovation Areas. Some ammunition received atadvanced bases would become unserviceable if it wereimproperly handled or exposed to the elements. Thiswould make it require renovation. Since renovationoperations may be performed at advanced bases, asuitable area must be provided for segregation, exteriormaintenance, and modification operations.
Disposal Areas. Normally, an area unusable forother purposes is chosen for an ammunition disposalarea. The disposal site should be at least 800 yardsfrom the nearest ammunition storage site and anyinhabited area of the base. The site should be cleared ofall vegetation. A powder burning area, detonation pits,and a component popping pit should be included in thesite. Provide a splinter proof or other suitable shelter toprotect personnel during demolition operations. Wherefacilities are available, ammunition may bedestroyed by dumping at sea. Existing directivesshould be consulted for disposal procedures.
Pier Areas. In the initial stages of construction ofan ammunition storage area at an advanced base, anisolated and separate ammunition pier should beprovided. Such a facility eliminates congestion, delay,and unnecessary hazards when loading and unloadinggeneral cargo, fuels, and ammunition.
Enemy Ammunition Areas. A separate areashould be provided for storing captured enemyammunition. This area should be at least 800 yardsfrom the other storage areas.
Administration and Personnel Areas.Administration and personnel areas must be at least800 yards from the ammunition storage and handlingareas.
Ammunition Storage Facilities
Ammunition is stored at advanced bases inapproved magazines, existing buildings, and in drycaves and tunnels. Ammunition may also be stored inthe open, in quarries, pits, and similar areas. Don't putammunition in caves, tunnels, quarries, or pits if thereisn't adequate drainage. When possible, assignavailable magazines and buildings for storing the morefragile and perishable ammunition, such aspyrotechnics, ammunition containing smokelesspowder, fuzes, and similar components. Store the more
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durable ammunition, such as aircraft bombs and depthcharges, in the open, provided it affords maximumprotection against corrosion and deterioration.
PREFABRICATED MAGAZINES.—Advancedbase magazines (fig. 12-2) are prefabricated,earth-covered, arch-type structures that are used toprovide weatherproof storage for ammunition of alltypes.
The barrel of each advanced base magazine is anarch made of sheets of corrugated sheet metal boltedtogether to form a semicircular-arch roof. Twoscreened, sheet metal ventilators are mounted on top ofthe arch, one at the front of the magazine and one at therear. The rear wall is constructed of corrugated sheetmetal. The front wall is constructed of wide,heavy-gauge metal plates, which are reinforced withangles and channels. The front wall extends above andto each side of the outer limits of the magazine,
providing retaining walls for the earth fill. The ends ofthe plates that extend beyond the limits of the magazineare secured to the structure by turnbuckle rods. Themagazine floor is a concrete slab placed on compactedgravel or broken stone fill. A pair of 8-foot, double-leafdoors is placed in the front wall of the magazine.Screened louvers are placed in each door forventilation. Table 12-10 lists the available magazinesizes, maximum storage capacities, and therecommended separation distances between themagazines.
A barricade is placed opposite the front wall ofeach magazine used for the storage of high explosivesor fuzes and detonators. The barricade extends to theheight of the inside crown of the magazine arch. Thebarricade must be at least 3 feet wide at the crest andslope to a grade on the natural slope of the earth used asfill.
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MAGAZINESIZE
MAXIMUMCAPACITY
QUANTITY-DISTANCEUNBARRICADED
QUANTITY-DISTANCEBARRICADED
16 × 36 50,000 200 feet 115 feet
25 × 48 150,000 290 feet 165 feet
Table 12-10.—Prefabricated Advanced Base Magazines
Figure 12-2.—Typical advanced base magazine.
REVIEW NUMBER 1ANSWERS
A1. Mandatory regulations governing the storageof ammunition ashore are found in OP 5VOL 1.
A2. The keyport magazine is a prefabricated,concrete-constructed magazine that isearth-covered and arch-shaped.
A3. The normal size of a box-type magazine is 12feet by 17 feet.
A4. The Corbetta magazine is a concrete-constructed magazine shaped like a beehiveor dome.
A5. The Gallery magazine consists of a tunnel orcave that has varied dimensions.
A6. Detonators and similar initiating devices arecontained in storage compatibility Group B.
A7. Black powder belongs in compatibilitystorage group D.
A8. Ammunition that doesn't present anysignificant hazard is found in compatibilityGroup S.
A9. The first number in a magazine designatorsymbol shows the magazine group number.
A10. The letter T in the third position of a magazinedesignator indicates that the magazine isearth-covered and barricaded.
Identification of Magazines and Open StorageSites
When practicable, magazines, buildings used asmagazines, and piles of ammunition stored in the openare marked according to the system of identificationyou have already read about. At advanced bases, theidentification system consists of two parts—a groupconstruction symbol and a symbol hazard indicator.
The group construction symbol is a three-groupsymbol that consists of the following:
1. A number indicating the group in which themagazine or open storage site is located,
2. A letter or group of letters designating the typeand capacity of the magazine, and
3. A number designating the sequence of themagazine within the magazine group or area.
Letter designators for advanced base storage areindicated in table 12-11. To indicate the nature of theconstruction of the magazine, the letter T is added if themagazine is earth-covered and barricaded; the letter Cis added if the magazine is earth-covered, but the doorisn't barricaded. The letter T is also used to designateopen storage. Advanced base magazines, buildingsused as magazines, caves, tunnels, and open storagesites do not conform to the standard magazine sizesprescribed in NAVSEA OP 5, volume 1. Therefore, theletters X, Y, or Z that identify explosion hazard, firehazard, or fragment hazard, respectively, are used inplace of the standard letter designators. Accordingly,XT is applied to an earth-covered, barricaded,advanced base magazine that is used for storing highexplosives.
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STORAGE DESIGNATOR
Advanced base magazine:
Explosion hazard
Fire hazard
Fragment hazard
Open storage
Caves and tunnels
X
Y
Z
R
G
Table 12-11.—Letter Designators for Advanced Base Storage
In addition, the following information must beconspicuously posted on one door in each magazine orbuilding that contains ammunition:
1. The hazard classification of ammunition(explosion, fire, or fragment) stored there.
2. The maximum quantities of ammunition ineach hazard classification as determined fromthe explosive safety quantity-distance tables.
3. Safety precautions and regulations that pertainto the specific material presently stored in themagazine or building.
Post this information at each outside (open)ammunition storage site. Print the information on a cardso it is protected from the weather. Then, put the card ina locally manufactured ammunition site sign andcardholder, as shown in figure 12-3.
Advanced base magazines are built in the mostsuitable location for storing one of the three hazardclassifications—explosion, fire, or fragment. Since alladvanced base magazines are of the same type ofconstruction, all three-hazard classifications may bestored in them if they are within ESQD limitations.However, the group construction symbol designates thetype of storage for which the magazine is most suitable.Don't change this symbol to show the magazine'spresent or new use, unless the change is permanent.
DISPURSION OF AMMUNITION
Ammunition disbursement is a main considerationin laying out an ammunition storage area at anadvanced base. Each type of ammunition is stored intwo widely separated areas. This prevents losing anentire supply of an ammunition item if there is a fire orexplosion. Explosive stores are separated from otherstores, as specified in the ESQD tables.
Group piles of ammunition stored in the open bycategories. These groups are discussed in the followingparagraphs. These groupings aren't compatibilitygroups; they are only used to ensure safe distances aremaintained between piles and stacks of ammunition.
CATEGORY A. This category of materialpresents a fire hazard. It includes propelling charges,bag charges, rocket motors, pyrotechnics, and smallarms ammunition. Category A material should beseparated from materials in the other categories (Bthrough E) by at least 350 feet.
CATEGORY B. This category of materialpresent’s fire and fragment or fragment and explosionhazards. It includes fixed ammunition, separate-loading projectiles, complete rockets (assembled orunassembled), grenades, and mortars. Category Bmaterial should be separated from materials in the othercategories by at least 300 feet.
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Figure 12-3.—Ammunition site sign and card holder.
CATEGORY C. This category of materialpresents an explosion hazard. This category includesbombs, warheads, depth charges, mines, demolitionmaterial, and bulk explosives. Category C materialshould be separated from materials in the othercategories by at least 695 feet.
CATEGORY D. This category of materialincludes fuzes and detonators. Category D materialshould be separated from materials in the othercategories by at least 200 feet.
CATEGORY E. This category of materialincludes chemical ammunition. Category E materialshould be separated from materials in the othercategories by at least 400 feet.
REVIEW NUMBER 2
Q1. Describe the purpose of an advanced base.
Q2. What is the purpose of having at least twostorage areas for each type of ammunition atan advanced base?
Q3. The disposal area at an advanced base shouldbe a minimum of what distance fromammunition storage sites and inhabitedareas?
Q4. List the characteristics of a prefabricatedmagazine at an advanced base.
Q5. At an advanced base, ammunition inCategory A poses what sort of hazard?
MAGAZINE MAINTENANCE,STORAGE, AND HANDLING
REQUIREMENTS
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify the typesof procedures used for magazine maintenance,storage, and handling to include personnelrequirements, lightning protection systems,magazine security, and ammunition handlingand shipping.
Proper explosives and ammunition storagefacilities are only a part of the overall storage system.Among the most important aspects of the storage ofammunition is the proper maintenance of magazinesand magazine areas.
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
Normally, all personnel engaged in operations thatinvolve ammunition, explosives, and other hazardous
materials are trained and qualified to perform theirassigned duties. In addition to being qualified andcertified, personnel involved with hazardous explosiveoperations are certified by a physician as physicallyqualified. Personnel aren't knowingly permitted orrequired to work when their ability or alertness isimpaired because of fatigue, illness, or other reasons.This would expose them and other personnel to injury.
Occasionally, manpower shortages cause a need forassistance by personnel from other Navy ratings to joinworking parties to handle or transport ammunition andexplosives. These working parties are referred to asaugmentation crews. Before using augmentation crews,try to make sure that personnel in the working party aretrained so mistakes aren't made or safety factorsviolated. Furthermore, make sure enough qualifiedrepresentatives, preferably officers or petty officers thatare senior in rank to any member of the working party,are present to detect or prevent violations of safetyorders and other unsafe practices. They should takewhatever action is required to correct the situation.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS
Lightning protection is required for all ordnancehandling buildings, storage facilities, and handlingareas that have more than 5 days per year whenthunderstorms occur.
There are two types of lightning protectionsystems—primary and secondary. The primary systemprevents damage from direct lightning strikes bydiverting the strike and providing a low-impedancepath to ground. The secondary system maintains allmetal objects within its system at the same electricalpotential. This prevents the possibility of sparkingbetween the objects.
Primary Systems
There are two types of primary lightning protectionsystems acceptable to NAVSEASYSCOM—theseparately mounted lightning mast system and theseparately mounted overhead ground (aerial shield)wire system.
LIGHTNING MAST SYSTEM.—This type ofprimary system consists of lightning masts(freestanding air terminals) placed around a facility andconnected to a buried primary girdle. A sufficientnumber of masts are used to protect the entire structurewithin the combined cones of the masts. Thedimensions of the structure determine the number and
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height of masts required to adequately protecting astructure.
OVERHEAD GROUND (AERIAL SHIELD)WIRE SYSTEM.—This system consists of overheadlightning protection conductors spanned betweenlightning masts above a facility. The conductors areconnected to a buried ground girdle or to ground rodsonly, depending upon the type of installation.
Secondary System
The secondary lightning protection system consistsof a buried girdle to which all metal parts are connectedat the lowest point. This implies that electrical access toall reinforced steel must be provided duringconstruction. The normal wire ties are consideredsufficient to provide electrical connection between thesections of reinforced steel that are in contact with eachother.
MAGAZINE AND MAGAZINE AREASECURITY
Nonclimbable fences protect magazine areas. Allthe entrances are locked unless guards are posted. Posta sign at all the entrances to restricted areas. The signindicates that every vehicle must stop, that each personmust present proper credentials to the guard, and thatall articles prohibited within the area must be given tothe guard. The exact wording of the signs are left to thediscretion of the commanding officer. However, theword explosive doesn't appear on the sign, and the signisn't attached to the magazines.
Special precautions are taken to guard or patrol theareas that not protected by suitable fencing. Magazineand explosives areas where ammunition, explosives,and other items of high-security classification arestored must be adequately guarded at all times.
Don't let unauthorized personnel enter or remain inany magazine or explosives area. Personnel involved inammunition handling operations are authorized inmagazines or buildings that contain explosives only asrequired, and they must enter and leave explosives areasat designated points.
Additional information on the requirements forposting, fencing, unguarded facilities and vehicles,emergency events, and security alarm systems is foundin Department of the Navy Physical SecurityInstruction for Sensitive Conventional Arms,Ammunitions and Explosives (AA&E), OPNAVINST5530.13.
REVIEW NUMBER 2 ANSWERS
A1. An advanced base is a temporary base that isin or near a forward area outside the zone ofthe interior. Its primary mission is to supporta wartime operation.
A2. At least two storage areas for each type ofammunition is needed at an advanced base toprevent loss of a particular type ofammunition if there were a fire or explosion.
A3. The disposal area at an advanced base shouldbe a minimum of 800 yards from ammunitionstorage sites and inhabited areas?
A4. A prefabricated magazine at an advancedbase is an earth-covered, arch-type structure.
A5. At an advanced base, ammunition inCategory A poses a fire hazard.
MAGAZINE/MAGAZINE AREAINSPECTIONS
The commanding officer, or duly authorizedrepresentative, requires regular and frequent magazineinspections. These inspections include ready-servicelockers, ready-service magazines, and magazine areas.Magazine inspections are conducted to make sure thefollowing conditions are met:
• Ensure magazine repairs are made, if needed.
• Ensure that safety regulations, particularly thosethat involve cleanliness and elimination of firehazards, are observed.
• Ensure that magazine contents are notdeteriorating into an unsafe condition, and theyare stored in an orderly, compatible, andapproved manner.
The magazine area inspections are designed tomake sure the following actions are being maintained:
• Firebreaks are being maintained.
• Fire protection equipment, when required, isavailable and serviceable.
• Roads are good and in usable condition.
• Fences are secure.
At times area inspections are performed more oftenthan magazine inspections, particularly during seasonswhen grass or brush fires are most likely to occur.
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General Inspection Requirements
Some of the types of things you look for whenconducting general magazine inspections are security,safety, cleanliness, atmosphere (temperature andhumidity), identification of contents, and posting. Achecklist covering all safety regulations andrequirements of magazine operations is used when youconduct magazine inspections. This helps you makesure you don't overlook violations or hazards. Thechecklist provides an adequate and full description ofany condition that is unsatisfactory and in violation ofrequirements. Make sure the checklist is properlyauthenticated and made a part of the magazine log.
Frequency of Inspections
The inspection frequency is determined by thecommanding officer or duly authorized representative.The frequency varies, depending on the number ofmagazines to be inspected, weather conditions, seasonof the year, number of magazines requiring specialattention (for example, environmentally controlled),and security requirements of magazines/magazineareas. Inspections are conducted during daylight hours.Make sure there is enough light to see that anysubstandard condition that exists is seen and reported tothe inspector. The exception to this procedure issecurity inspections; they are conducted during the dayand at night.
Temperature Control Considerations
The majority of the ordnance items in the Navyinventory are designed to withstand temperatures in therange of 130° to 160° Fahrenheit. Temperatures withinconventional ordnance storage magazines seldomexceed 105° Fahrenheit. Therefore, you don't have toclosely monitor the temperatures within thesemagazines. However, in the case of special magazines,such as certain missile/missile components, torpedoes,and mine magazines that require environmentalcontrol, control-system monitoring is still required.
Report of Inspections
You must record the date and hour of eachinspection in a magazine inspection log above thesignature of the person who made the inspection.Promptly report substandard or abnormal conditions tothe officer or supervisor in charge of correcting it. Thenannotate the observed conditions in the log. Notesatisfactory and normal conditions in the log by the
entry normal. Magazine inspection logs may bedestroyed 1 year from the date of last entry.
REVIEW NUMBER 3
Q1. Describe the two types of primary lightningprotection systems acceptable to NAVSEA-SYSCOM.
Q2. Lightning masts are connected to a_____________.
Q3. To what instruction should you refer forspecific requirements about the physicalsecurity of naval magazines?
Q4. When are magazine inspections conducted?
Q5. Describe the information recorded on themagazine inspection log above the signatureof the person conducting the inspection.
AMMUNITION HANDLING
The AO must be familiar with handlingammunition. It is a repetitious task, whether at a shorestation or aboard ship. Repetitious work, no matter howdangerous, often becomes routine and leads tocarelessness. Therefore, pay attention to what you aredoing to prevent accidents in operations dealing withammunition and explosives.
Whenever ammunition or explosives are received,transferred, or stowed, an officer or petty officer thatknows the rules governing the care and handling ofammunition supervises the work. The supervisormakes sure that all work personnel are aware of theneed to be careful when they handle ammunition andexplosives.
Handling equipment is properly maintained andfrequently inspected to make sure it is in safe workingcondition. Also, the handling equipment must be theright equipment for the purpose. Inspections are madebefore and during loading/unloading operations.
AMMUNITION SHIPPING
Ammunition shipping is a phase of ammunitionhandling. Instructions for the preparation and shipmentof naval ordnance material are contained in NavyTransportation Safety Handbook for Ammunition,Explosives and Related Hazardous Materials,NAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010. The instructionNAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010 cover the preparation,flow, and use of all the documents that are required to
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ship, receive, and report shipments. Instructions for theuse of ordnance transport equipment, materials to betransported, division of responsibility for carrying outinspections, and criteria for accepting or rejectingequipment are also contained in this publication.NAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010 contains the generalinformation needed for you to safely perform the dutiesrequired when shipping ordnance materials.
REVIEW NUMBER 3 ANSWERS
A1. The two types of primary lightning protectionsystems acceptable to NAVSEASYSCOM arethe sequentially mounted lightning systemand the separately mounted overhead ground(aerial shield) wire system.
A2. Lightning masts are connected to a buriedprimary girdle.
A3. For specific requirements about the physicalsecurity of naval magazines, you should referto OPNAVINST 5530.13.
A4. Magazine inspections are conducted onlyduring daylight hours.
A5. The information recorded on the magazineinspection log above the signature of theperson conducting the inspection includes thedate and hour of each inspection as well as
abnormal or substandard conditions of themagazines, or the word "Normal" ifconditions were satisfactory.
Explosives Driver
An explosive driver is often an AO with anexcellent safe driving record, and a person fullyqualified according to Motor Vehicle's Driver'sHandbook Ammunition, Explosives, and HazardousMaterials, NAVSEA OP 2239. To become a qualifiedexplosive driver, you must meet the qualificationsdescribed below. If you meet these qualifications, youare certified to drive motor vehicles that transporthazardous materials (HM).
STATE OPERATOR'S LICENSE.—An explo-sives driver must hold a valid state operator's license,not necessarily issued by the state in which the activityis located. This applies to operation of vehicles both on-and off-station. This requirement is permanentlywaived for those personnel stationed outside the 50states that would otherwise be eligible to obtain anexplosive driver's permit.
MEDICAL EXAMINERS CERTIFICATE.—An explosives driver must undergo a explosive physicalexamination and, on the basis of such an examination,be certified by a licensed doctor of medicine orosteopathy to ensure that he/she meets applicable
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Figure 12-4.—Medical Examiner's Certificate, ATA Form C0750.
requirements as stated in the Federal Motor CarrierSafety Regulations. Applicants who pass the prescribedexplosive physical examination are issued a MedicalExaminer's Certificate, ATA (American TruckingAssociation) Form C0750. (See fig. 12-4.) Thiscertificate, in addition to the explosive driver's permit,must be on the operator's person while driving anyvehicle transporting HM.
EXPLOSIVES DRIVER PERMIT.—An explo-sives driver must hold a U.S. Government MotorVehicle Operator's Identification Card, Standard Form46 (SF 46). (See fig. 12-5.) The card will be noted:"Explosives Driver (Must hold a current medicalcertificate)." The SF 46 is valid for 3 years and must berenewed prior to expiration. A yearly endorsement isnot required. An individual's safety record and physicalrequirements will be considered prior to recertificationas an explosive driver.
AGE AND EXPERIENCE.—An explosivesdriver must be 18 years of age or older to operate motor
vehicles transporting HM on-station and 21 years ofage or over for off-station motor vehicle HMoperations. The explosive driver must also have hadconsiderable and varied driving experience with thetype of equipment to be operated and have a safedriving record.
MENTAL REQUIREMENTS.—Applicants,military and civilian, are required to pass a mentalexamination that is administered by the local commandbefore they can be considered eligible to be explosivesdrivers.
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS.—An applicant forexplosives driver certification found to be addicted toalcohol or drugs is rejected. Certification is revoked foran explosive driver found to be under the influence ofalcohol or drugs while on duty or when showingevidence of addiction. Temporary revocation of HMcertification may become necessary when the use ofphysician-prescribed drugs are likely to interfere withthe driver's ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
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Figure 12-5.—U.S. Government Motor Vehicle Operator's Identification Card, SF 46.
ABILITY TO READ AND UNDERSTANDREGULATIONS.—An explosives driver must be ableto read, write, and understand the English language,and to complete the various forms for which a driver isresponsible. The driver is required to read andunderstand the regulations that pertain to the duties asprescribed in NAVSEA OP 2239.
In addition to these qualifications, if you apply forcertification as an explosive driver, you are required tocomplete an explosive driver's training course and passthe tests given at the conclusion of the course. Allexplosive drivers receive at least 12 hours of instructionin the following activities:
• Driving trucks, truck-tractors with semi trailers,and other vehicles of appropriate types
• Handling and transporting hazardous materials
• Interpreting regulations and procedurespertaining to the transporting of hazardousmaterials
• Training and use of fire extinguishers
• Completing and filing required reports
When operating Navy-owned vehicles, you, as anoperator, must comply with DOD regulations and allstate and local traffic laws. You are also subject to fineor imprisonment when you violate these regulationsand traffic laws.
REVIEW NUMBER 4
Q1. To what publication should you refer forinformation about transporting hazardousmaterials?
Q2. What is the minimum age requirement for anexplosive driver to transport explosivesoff-station?
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety precautions prescribe the minimumrequirements and regulations you should observe whenhandling ammunition. These regulations may begeneral in nature or step-by-step procedures.Regardless of the situation, safety precautions mustNEVER be ignored or bypassed, even during thesimplest ammunition-handling evolutions.
The general safety precautions listed below showsome of the regulations contained in publicationsreferred to in this chapter.
1. Properly stow all materials within a magazineand keep them in a safe condition. Never lettrash resulting from decanning, depalletizing,or unpacking accumulate in a magazine. Itpresents a fire hazard and unsafe workingconditions for personnel.
2. Don't use improvised tools, platforms, orladders.
3. Before ammunition loading, explosives load-ing, or offloading operations, either at a shoreactivity or a ship underway, inspect all firemains to make sure they operate properly andefficiently. Fire hoses must be laid out ready foruse in the immediate area of operations. Thehoses must be laid out so those damage controland fire boundaries are not crossed, using allrisers available. Additionally, keep the valvescontrolling these fires hoses open so that wateris readily available.
4. Flame, heat, or spark-producing devices aren'tpermitted where explosives or flammablematerials, batteries, or battery charging lockersare located. Cigarette lighters, heaters, fires,welding tools, soldering irons, cutting torches,and uncovered lights are included in thiscategory. When work requiring the use offlame, heat, or spark-producing devices isurgently required in or adjacent to anammunition stowage space, follow theprocedures outlined in OPNAVINST 8023.2(series) and OPNAVINST 8023.21 (series).
5. Emphasize safety precautions applicable toin-service ammunition items or equipment byusing applicable signs throughout the ship.Signs may be obtained as Cog I material. Theyare indexed in Section 13 of Navy Stock List ofForms and Publications—Cognizance SymbolI, NAVSUP Publication 2002, or when notlisted in NAVSUP 2002, you may obtain themfrom a tender-type ship by submission of awork order.
6. Emergency drills requiring the use of thegeneral alarm system, ship's bell or whistlesaren’t conducted aboard ship while moored toan ammunition-activity pier, unless specificapproval for such drills has been granted by thecommanding officer of the ammunitionactivity.
Similarly, such emergency drills aren't conductedby ships nested together or at a pier where
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ammunition-handling operations are in progress, or bya ship underway during an ammunition handlingevolution.
7. Ammunition evolutions involving direct con-tact with ammunition components are curtailedduring local atmospheric disturbances, such asthunderstorms or high winds. Operations aren'tresumed until non-hazardous conditionsprevail.
8. Stowage of privately owned ammunition andsmall arms is permitted aboard ship if approvedby the commanding officer. This type ofstowage is subject to the security requirementsof chapter 700 of the Naval Ships TechnicalManual, Ammunition Handling and Stowage,NAVSEA S9086-XG-STM-000.
9. Ships and craft entering commercial or navalshipyards for periods longer than 6 weeks arecompletely offloaded of all ammunition,except the small arms ammunition that thecommanding officer considers necessary forthe maintenance of security aboard ship andinert ordnance items such as bomb fins.
If a ship is expected to remain in the yard for lessthan 6 weeks, the ship offloads, as a minimum, allammunition or explosives that can't be stowed insprinkler-protected or floodable spaces.
10. The number of personnel engaged inammunition and explosive handling operationsis limited to the minimum necessary for safeand efficient performance of the work.Unauthorized personnel aren't permitted in amagazine, missile handling or testing area, orat any handling operation involving explosivesor ammunition. A responsible escortaccompanies visiting personnel.
11. As a general rule, any pyrotechnic device thatis armed and otherwise prepared for launchingor activating but hasn't been used may bedearmed, restored to its original packing, andreturned to stowage. The exceptions to this ruleare Mk 25 and Mk 58 marine location markers,Mk 46 decoy flares, and aircraft parachuteflares. If such devices can't be made safebeyond question, they must be stowed in
lockers or disposed of according to currentdirectives.
12. When the temperature in a magazine con-taining gas generators, propelling charges, orfixed ammunition reaches 110°F or above,certain actions must be taken to preserve safetyand stability of the explosives.
When the magazine temperature is between 110°Fand 120°F, the magazine should be artificially cooled,as practical. The number of hours and the maximumtemperature reached during each hour of exposureabove 110°F, but less than 120°F, must be recorded.When the cumulative total number of hours of exposureto these temperatures reaches 500 hours, theammunition must be expended or turned into anammunition activity, stating the reason for return. If theammunition was subjected to these temperatures forless than 500 hours, it should be expended duringsubsequent firings.
When the magazine temperature is between 120ºFand 130ºF, the magazine should be artificially cooled,as practical. A special record of the number of hours ofexposure and the maximum temperature reached eachhour should be made. When a cumulative total of 100hours of exposure above 120ºF is reached, prior to acumulative total of 500 hours of exposure between110ºF and 130ºF, the ammunition must have priority forexpenditure or be turned in to an ammunition storageactivity at the first opportunity.
At temperatures above 130ºF, the ammunitionshould be removed from the magazine and turned in tothe nearest ammunition activity. When there is nostorage activity immediately available and the ship is inport, the ammunition may be retained on board in asegregated magazine or in a ready-service room orlocker. All possible methods should be used to lowerthe temperature of the ammunition until the ship is ableto turn it in to the nearest ammunition activity.
REVIEW NUMBER 4 ANSWERS
A1. For information about transportinghazardous materials, you should refer toNAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010.
A2. To transport explosives off-station, the drivermust be 21 years of age.
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