(_a_) _Individual protection._ When CPS systems are not available, using the correct MOPP level is essential in hospital mission performance. The level of MOPP assumed depends upon the level of threat. An alternative approach for the hospital commander is the use of the mask-only posture. This posture is acceptable when the hazard is from vapor only (except mustard). See FM 3-4 for a description of each MOPP level and mask-only procedures.
· _Hospital warning system._ The hospital must have a warning system that alerts all personnel of impending or present hazards. This system must include visual and auditory signals; the signals must operate inside and outside the hospital complex. There are numerous problems associated with warning personnel; they include--
· The wide area covered by the hospital operations.
· Some personnel will be asleep at all times of the day or night (two or three shifts).
· The considerable noise from mechanical support equipment; such as the power generation and environmental control equipment.
· Tentage and equipment interrupts line of sight.
· _Hospital personnel response._ When NBC alarms are activated, all personnel (including off duty personnel) report to their duty stations as soon as they are in the designated MOPP level. This allows for 100 percent personnel accounting and provides additional personnel to secure patients and materiel.
· _Unprotected hospital areas._ Areas of the hospital without CPS are at their best posture with all openings secured and the ventilation systems turned off. For nonpersistent agents (vapor hazards), personnel and patients stay at the designated MOPP level until the all clear signal is given; then normal operations are resumed.
Patients with injuries that prevent their assuming a protective posture must be placed in a PPW or immediately evacuated to a clean MTF.
_(b) Environmental protection._ As noted previously, hospital complexes without CPS offer some protection against liquid or fallout contamination, but little protection against vapor hazards.
· When MOPP Level 1 must be assumed, close and secure all tent flaps, vents, and doors to prevent the entrance of liquids or particles. All hospital personnel outside of shelters assume MOPP Level 4. Cover or move all equipment and supplies into shelters (tents, hard-walled shipping containers), if possible. Placement under thick foliage trees is better than left out in the open. The best policy is to keep all equipment and supplies not immediately needed covered or in closed containers.