the time required to do a job. With only one exception, there are no
significant time increases for units operating in MOPP 1 and MOPP 2.
The exception is extensive travel on foot in MOPP 2, because overboots
slow travel.
(4)
Target.
How likely is it that the unit will be attacked with NBC weapons? The
answer is a judgment based on knowledge of the way NBC weapons are
used. First, there is the matter of the unit location on the
battlefield. Is the unit close to the front lines? Mortars and
artillery can deliver chemicals accurately, and the closer the unit is
to enemy observers, the more accurate and timely enemy fire is likely
to be. Is the unit considered a primary target in the rear area?
Persistent agents are more likely to be used in the rear to disrupt
operations that support the front lines. If the unit is on a likely
avenue of approach, use of nonpersistent agents is likely.
(5)
Warning Time.
How much warning of an enemy NBC strike can be anticipated? Consider
available intelligence. Has the enemy used NBC weapons? Has the
enemy deployed weapon systems and munitions? Do wind direction and
speed place the unit in a downwind-hazard area? If so, consider
placement of the unit alarms. What are the lay of the land and the
wind direction? Are the alarms positioned in locations that will give
best early warning? Have adjacent units experienced any unexplained
illness?
(6)
Weather.
What are the weather conditions, and how will they influence the
unit's performance? High temperatures and humidity make it difficult
for the body to dissipate heat, and this is compounded when soldiers
must wear MOPP Gear, which retains even more heat.
The more body heat retained, the fewer hours soldiers can work without
increasing their chance of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. This,
coupled with the work rate, requires units to take more frequent and
longer breaks, thus taking longer to accomplish the mission.
Wind speed may also be a factor to consider. High wind speeds aid in
the dissipation of body heat as well as decrease the probability that
the enemy will employ chemical agents.
(7)
Troop Preparedness.
Well-prepared troops suffer less stress when in MOPP 4 under combat
conditions than do troops who are less prepared.
IS0345
2-12
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