Lesson 2/Learning Event 1
LEARNING EVENT 1:
DESCRIBE CHEMICAL
AND BIOLOGICAL AGENT
DETECTION AND SAMPLING EQUIPMENT
Chemical agents can be detected by using the M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit, M18A2
Chemical Agent Detector Kit, and the Automatic Chemical Agent Alarm. Samples of unknown
chemical and biological agents may be collected using the M34 CB Agent Sampling Kit. Samples
of unknown chemical agents also may be collected using the M18A1 detector kit.
M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit
The M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit (called the M256 kit) is issued at squad level. Detailed
operating instructions are contained in Subcourse CM1301, Chemical Agent Warning and
Detection.
Purpose. The purpose of the M256 kit is to detect the presence of chemical agents in liquid and
vapor forms. It is used in the reconnaissance and monitoring of suspected contaminated areas.
Capabilities. The M256 kit can detect the presence of blister, blood, and nerve agents. It can detect
these agents within 15 minutes. The kit can be used to conduct a series of 12 tests for vapor
chemical agents. The specific chemical agents which the M256 kit can detect are the following:
Mustards - H, HD
Phosgene oxime - CX
Lewisite- L
Blood agents - AC, CK
Nerve agents - V and G
Description. The components of the M256 kit are described below and illustrated in figure 8 on
page 25.
Carrying case. The case, made of plastic, is seven inches wide, three inches deep, and five inches
high. An adjustable shoulder strap and waist-belt strap enable the kit to be carried over the shoulder
and attached at the waist. The top of the case is attached to the bottom by a hinge. A hook and pile
fastener tape holds the case securely closed. The discard date and lot number of the kit are stamped
on the top.
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