P-385-63 Range Safety Pamphlet Download

and Evaluation Command should be performed on the laser system prior to use on laser ranges. Non-fielded lasers systems or laser systems not in their original configuration (such as, a laser was fielded for use in a helicopter and now is planned to be mounted on a vehicle), the organization using the laser must obtain a safety release from Developmen- tal Test Command prior to use on the laser ranges. (2) Marine Corps. The CG, MCCDC (C465) is responsible for Marine Corps range safety, of which laser safety is one component. CG, MCCDC (C465) serves as the proponent for all matters pertaining to the oversight and coordina- tion of laser ranges with Marine Corps ranges and training areas. Additionally, CG MCCDC (C465) has overall authority for all Marine Corps laser range management issues in coordination with installations and other Services for laser range requirements. b. Specific installation guidance for laser range safety. For the Army, the senior/installation commander has the authority to implement policies and procedures for safe laser operations in accordance with technical information provided in MIL–HDBK–828 series and other regulatory guidance. For the Army and Marine Corps, the senior/ installation commander normally assigns responsibilities for the following laser range safety procedures to the RMA (Army), RCO (Marine Corps): (1) Develop SOPs pertaining to laser range safety that include proper controls of hazardous laser radiation. SOPs should include details on laser radiation and other laser related hazards such as releasing guided ordnance that may unintentionally acquire radiation sources within the field of detection other than the target, or lasing an unapproved target. Update SOPs as necessary to account for new laser systems, training areas, and targets. (2) Review the laser range certification process and range SOP annually or when changes are made. (3) Use the Range Facility Management Support System to record date, start and stop time for lasing periods, and type of laser or other appropriate information for each laser operation (such as, laser firing log). (4) Review unit laser training/use plans as part of the range approval process to identify potential deficiencies in the training plan and monitor compliance with safety policies and procedures. Guidelines for unit laser training/use plans are included in this chapter. The installation should ensure the following guidelines have been incorporated into the unit training/use plan. (a) Laser systems are approved and appropriate for the designated range. (b) Limits of the LSDZ are properly identified and are contained within the certified laser range area. (c) Ground personnel locations requiring PPE are identified. (d) Access to hazardous areas for unprotected personnel is limited. (e) Targets, laser firing area/line/points, orbit points, and laser-to-target orientation are verified to ensure they can be supported by the laser system and the range. (f) PPE requirements are verified to ensure they are appropriate for the wavelength and optical density requirements of the laser and weapon systems being used. (g) Training mode/filter requirements are evaluated and implemented if necessary. (h) Signs warning of potential laser hazards are at the access points to the laser range. (i) Emergency response procedures are identified and up to date. (5) Provide laser briefings and indoctrination on laser operations and testing, to the affected public. The information in the briefing will be at the user level (that is, complex scientific data or terminology will be avoided). (6) Laser range incident investigations will include: (a) Review incident in accordance with local SOP and training plan. (b) Request technical advice on laser capabilities and laser hazard effects. (c) Gather information about the incident. (d) Prepare and submit data for the investigation report. (e) Request unit perform a proper investigation which includes notification of the particular unit’s change of command and, for the Marine Corps, the institutional laser range authority. c. Specific unit level guidance on laser range safety. (1) Implement the policies and procedures set forth by the installation to ensure safe use of lasers. (2) Prepare and submit laser training plans for approval to perform laser activities on a specific laser range or training area. A unit laser training plan should include the following factors: (a) Determine laser operations in support of training requirements. (b) Review training to be accomplished against local SOPs. (c) Coordinate to select a range whose laser range certification supports the laser system(s) to be used and training exercise to be accomplished. (d) Review laser modes/tactics to be employed to ensure they support the laser system and range. (e) Identify targets, laser firing area/line/points, laser-to-target orientation, and orbit points that can be supported by the LSDZ. The laser must be terminated or the NOHD fully contained within the controlled area of the range. (f) Identify ground personnel locations. (g) Identify range hazard concerns (such as, conflicts, impact areas, and clearing requirements). 205 DA PAM 385–63 • 16 April 2014