AFI 11-2C-130v3 - BITS

144 AFI11-2C-130V3 23 APRIL 2012
that generate more agent off-gassing. The 10/50-foot rules embody a safety factor that goes
beyond current OSD guidance (which allows removal of IPE whenever detectors no longer
detect a chemical agent vapor hazard). There are two phases associated with the 10/50-foot
rules.
10.5.10.1. Initial Phase. During the initial phase, personnel will remain in MOPP 4
whenever they stay within 10/50 feet of the contaminated equipment for more than a few
seconds. This MOPP level provides personnel the maximum protection from the
chemical agent as it transitions from a contact and vapor hazard to a vapor hazard only.
10.5.10.2. Follow-on Phase. In the follow-on phase, personnel will use gloves of a sort
(i.e. leather, rubber, cloth, etc.) when operating on or handling the contaminated
equipment. Although a contact hazard is unlikely, relatively small amounts of the agent
may still be present. The use of gloves will ensure that unnecessary bare skin contact
with agent residue is avoided.
10.5.10.3. Table 10 2 shows "estimated" times associated with initial and follow-on
phases of the 10/50-foot rule. To simplify response processes, commanders may choose
to use the worst case scenario as the foundation for all 10/50-foot rule actions, i.e., 24
hours for the initial phase and all periods of time greater than 24 hours for the follow-on
phase.
Table 10.2. Ten-Foot Rule Time Standards (Source: AFMAN 10-2503).
―10/50 Foot Rule‖ Time Standards*
Agent Initial Phase Follow-on Phase
HD 0-12 HRS Greater than 12 hrs
GB 0-12 HRS Greater than 12 hrs
GD, GF, GA 0-18 HRS Greater than 12 hrs
VX, R33 0-24 HRS Greater than 24 hrs
* Rule is based on expected contamination on an airbase following a chemical attack. Adjust
times if agent concentration is higher than expected.