Lesson 2/Learning Event 4
LEARNING EVENT 4:
INSPECT NBC EQUIPMENT
The NBC equipment and supplies in a unit require a continuing program of preventive
maintenance to insure the equipment is in an operational condition. Though preventive
maintenance is normally an operator's responsibility, it is your inherent responsibility as an NBC
defense officer or NCO to insure that it is properly performed. This is accomplished through an
inspection process. The inspection process should be closely linked to the commander's
preventive maintenance program. The commander's preventive maintenance objectives should
be in writing and may be outlined in a unit standing operating procedure (SOP), policy letter, or
some other form of written guidelines. Your inspection of NBC equipment should include an
inspection (or observation) of operators' ability to perform inspections. Operators who are
deficient in their inspection ability should be given instruction on the proper procedures for
inspecting a piece of equipment. This instruction should include the use of technical manuals to
perform prescribed inspection and maintenance procedures, recording of deficiencies on
worksheets, and maintenance of appropriate equipment records.
Inspection of NBC Equipment
When inspecting items of NBC equipment, you should look for the following:
Publications. There should be a technical publication (TM, TB, or SB) on hand for each item of
NBC equipment. Items such as protective masks, where there are large quantities in the unit, are
exempt from this requirement except that there must be at least one TM for each type (M17,
M24, and M25-series).
Equipment Data. You must insure that equipment data plates, decals, and labels are present and
in such condition that they are still legible.
deterioration caused by mildew, rot, acid burn, or ordinary wear.
Cleanliness. Equipment must be kept clean. Dirt, dust, rust, and corrosion that could interfere
with the normal function of the equipment should be removed as prescribed by the appropriate
technical manual. Battery boxes should be inspected and cleaned to insure proper electrical
contact.
Damage. Equipment should be checked for damaged parts and components. Readily detectable
damage should be considered to determine if it is caused by negligence or by a lack of
knowledge about the care and handling of the equipment.
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