Table 9-1.--MOPP Levels before Chemical Attack
MOPP LEVEL
OVERGARMENT
OVERBOOTS
MASK WITH HOOD
GLOVES
1
WORN, OPEN OR
CARRIED
CARRIED
CARRIED
CLOSED BASED ON
TEMPERATURE
2
SAME AS MOPP-1
WORN
CARRIED
CARRIED
3
SAME AS MOPP-1
WORN
WORN, HOOD OPEN
CARRIED
OR CLOSED BASED
ON TEMP
4
WORN, CLOSED
WORN
WORN, HOOD
WORN
CLOSED
mission, and the temperature. (See table 9-1 for
Fatigue
MOPP levels.)
Individuals in frill chemical protective clothing and
All combat operations are conducted under the
equipment tend to experience fatigue resulting from
mission-oriented protective posture system. Of course,
such factors as mask breathing resistance, increase in
when there is no threat, then there is no protection
body temperature from work energy and solar heat, and
requirement, but this is still a MOPP. At the other
psychological and physiological stress. This condition
extreme, when there is a continuing, immediate threat
of fatigue increases the need for rest and sleep to
of chemical attack and the enemy has the capability to
maintain individual alertness and efficiency.
produce an unacceptable casualty level among
unprotected troops, the troops may be required to wear
Senses
protective clothing and equipment for extended periods.
In this case, some form of safe area must be provided,
Individuals required to perform duties involving
so troops can perform the necessary functions that
their senses or related functions, such as manual
require removal of some or all of the protective gear.
dexterity, visual activity, and voice communication,
operate at varying levels of efficiency, depending on
training and proficiency while in full protective gear.
MOPP FLEXIBILITY-LIMITING FACTORS
Personal Needs
The flexibility of MOPP in providing individual
protection is limited by the temperature of the
Individuals cannot be in full chemical protection for
surrounding area, fatigue level of the troops, the degree
indefinite periods and still attend to certain personal
to which the troops need to use their senses, and personal
needs, such as eating, caring for wounds, shaving, and
needs.
eliminating of bodily wastes.
MARKING OF CONTAMINATED
AREAS (STANAG 2002)
Individuals operating a moderate-to-heavy work
rate while in chemical protective gear may experience
The markers, or signs, are used in areas containing
heat exhaustion (dizziness and fainting) at any time,
radiological, biological, and chemical contamination.
especially during periods of high temperature.
The colorings and markings of the signs are according
9-18