PART F - OPERATIONAL DECONTAMINATION PLANNING
1.
General.
a. Operational decontamination makes use of two decontamination techniques: MOPP Gear
Exchange and Vehicle Washdown. The operation is performed in the unit's area of operation with
support from battalion level Power-Driven Decontamination Equipment (PDDE) crews or from
chemical company decon squads. Its purpose is to limit liquid or particle contamination spread. This
protects uncontaminated areas so that they can be used for possible temporary MOPP level reduction.
b. Operational decontamination supports the need for battlefield mobility. Its small operational
area (about 100 square meters) is easy to conceal in forward areas. The small water requirements do
away with the need to conduct decontamination near a water source.
c. Operational decontamination is most efficiently, effectively, and safely conducted when
squad-size elements use these two techniques. Platoons or companies should rotate squad-size elements
one at a time through the operational decontamination site.
2.
Units Involved.
a. Contaminated Unit.
Squad-size elements and occasionally platoon-size elements use operational decontamination. The
contaminated unit decontaminates its personnel. The battalion PDDE crew decontaminates equipment
with assistance from the contaminated unit.
b. Battalion TOC.
The battalion Tactical Operations Center (TOC) coordinates. If the battalion has no decon assets or
more assets are required, requests must be submitted to the next higher headquarters. Decon squads
from chemical companies may be available.
c. Battalion PDDE Crew.
The PDDE is moved, supplied, and operated by the battalion PDDE crew. Although they provide the
expertise and do most of the work for vehicle washdown, they operate under the direction of the
contaminated unit's commander.
CM 2506
4-20
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