The
contaminated
unit
commander
decides
to
conduct
Operational
Decontamination.
The commander then calls the battalion TOC to request
support.
The TOC directs the battalion decontamination crew to meet the contaminated
unit. The unit chooses the location. Battalion assets may not be available
to provide Operational Decon support. Then the battalion coordinates with
the division or brigade for help.
The contaminated unit generally should
communicate with the decontamination crew on the admin-log net.
The contaminated unit chooses an Operational Decon site, a place where
little preparation is required, to do Operational Decon, but it coordinates
with its battalion.
Usually the contaminated unit has the most complete
knowledge of local conditions and is best qualified to pick locations.
Consider these key factors when making this decision:
Good overhead concealment
Good drainage
Off the main route, but with easy access for vehicles
Large enough area to handle Vehicle Washdown and MOPP Gear Exchange
for squad-size element (100 square meters)
A water source.
Make maximum use of existing facilities, such as
car washes and swimming pools.
Plan for about 100 gallons of water for each armored personnel carrier.
Large or dirtier vehicles will need more water.
The M12A1 can carry 450
gallons to a decontamination site and hold it there. The M17 SANATOR with
collapsible bladder can hold 1,500 gallons, but must be set up and filled at
the decon site.
The contaminated unit will rendezvous with the battalion decontamination
crew at the site.
The contaminated unit's company supply section brings
replacement MOPP Gear, decontaminants, and skin/equipment decontamination
kits to the rendezvous location.
This location could be near enemy
territory, and the decontamination crews and company supply section have
little, if any, organic security.
Therefore, local field SOP should
describe the rendezvous procedure for all parties involved to avoid
confusion, delay, or confrontation with enemy forces.
The battalion decontamination crew will set up an Operational Vehicle
Washdown area.
An Operational Decon site implies minimal setup or
preparation for Operational Decontamination. Site setup
2-3
CM2300
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