Mask-Only Command

Because of these factors, the completeness of protection is stratified by the anticipated magnitude of the threat from chemical-biological agents that is, the mission-oriented protective posture (Figure 16-12). Five MOPP levels have been recognized previously, but with Change 2 to Field Manual 3-4, NBC Protection, the number was updated to seven in 1996 (Exhibit 16-1).5 The two new MOPP levels are MOPP Ready and Mask-Only Command, but readers should be aware that MOPP levels are revised frequently to meet newly defined needs. 

Mask-Only Command Only the protective mask is worn. The mask-only command is given in these situations 1. When riot control agents are being employed and no chemical or biological threat exists. 2. In a downwind vapor hazard of a nonpersistent chemical agent. The mask-only command is not appropriate when blister agents or persistent nerve agents are present. 

Mission-oriented protective posture (MOPP)-level TTPs are, in the committee s view, insufficiently flexible to permit continued operations in a dirty environment. Commanders should be provided with a wider array of protective equipment materiel and operational options. It is recommended that NWDC undertake a review of MOPP-level standards and definitions specifically to establish a mask-only condition (currently the mask is donned only at MOPP levels three and four (after the outer garment and boots)). It is equally important to provide local commanders with guidance on when to select one protection option rather than the others. It is noted that both Army and CBIRF doctrine allow employment of a mask-only posture in certain circumstances. 

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