CHAPTER 12

AMMUNITION STORAGE AND HANDLING ASHORE

Ammunition storage ashore applies to the storage
of explosives, ammunition, and ammunition
components in two different types of environments and
operational conditions. When ammunition is stored at
permanently established storage locations, such as
naval air stations, naval stations, or other ammunition
activities, extensive safety and procedural requirements
exist. However, strategic operations may necessitate the
establishment of ammunition storage facilities at
advanced bases. Although governing regulations exist
for the storage of ammunition at advanced bases, they
are not as extensive as those governing permanent
storage requirements and regulations. The following
text covers ammunition storage ashore and ammunition
storage ashore for advanced bases.
AMMUNITION STORAGE ASHORE
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify am-
munition magazines used ashore. Recognize
the explosive safety quantity-distance (ESQD)
requirements. Recognize the hazards posed by
various classes of ammunition. Identify storage
capability groups and their use. Identify the
facilities used to store ammunition at advanced
bases.
All units of the Naval Shore and Marine Corps
Establishments that produce, store, ship, or otherwise
handle ammunition, explosives, and other hazardous
materials are under the management and control of
NAVSEASYSCOM. Also, NAVSEASYSCOM
manages and controls the technical aspects of
assembling, maintaining, storing, issuing, shipping,
and handling ammunition, explosives, or other
hazardous materials.
AMMUNITION IDENTIFICATION
Ammunition identification is an important part of
ordnance handling and administration. Ammunition
identification tells you the service/nonservice type of
ammunition, class of explosive contained in the round,
Mark (Mk) and modification (Mod) numbers, lot
numbers, and color codes representing the explosive
hazards.
Service Ammunition
Ammunition intended for operational use is
classified as service ammunition. The warhead
contains explosives, pyrotechnics, or chemical agent
filler. If required, the propellant is of service or reduced
charge weight. Aircraft service ammunition is
identified as either armament (kill stores) or ordnance
(search stores).
Nonservice Ammunition
Ammunition used for training personnel is
classified as nonservice ammunition. This ammunition
may be actual service (tactical) quality or may be
specially modified or loaded practice ammunition, inert
training, inert dummy/drill, or exercise/recoverable
ammunition.
PRACTICE/TRAINING AMMUNITION.
This ammunition is designed for training, practice, or
systems testing purposes. It is actually launched, fired,
or dropped. It may be a modification of service
ammunition designed specifically for practice. Practice
ammunition may or may not contain explosive or
pyrotechnic materials. Practice ammunition may be
either expendable or recoverable, depending upon the
device involved.
DUMMY DRILL/INERT AMMUNITION.
This ammunition is completely inert ammunition. It is
used to represent the service ammunition for display
purposes, testing weapons, and weapons handling
operations. It is also used to develop assembly, testing,
and handling proficiency of personnel without actually
firing or launching the ammunition.
EXERCISE/RECOVERABLE AMMUNI-
TION. This is service ammunition that is functional
in all respects except for the explosive payload. The
payload furnishes operational data by the substitution
of recoverable exercise components. Pyrotechnics, dye
marker, or explosive fittings may be attached to or
incorporated in the ammunition.
12-1
12-2
COLOR INTERPRETATION
Yellow
(1) Identifies high explosives.
(2) Indicates the presence of explosive, either,
(a) sufficient to cause the ammunition to function as a high
explosive, or
(b) particularly hazardous to the user.
Brown
(1) Identifies rocket motors.
(2) Indicates the presence of explosive, either,
(a) sufficient to cause the ammunition to function as a low
explosive, or
(b) particularly hazardous to the user.
*Gray
(1) Identifies ammunition that contains irritant or toxic agents when
used as an overall body color except for underwater ordnance.
Gray with Red Band(s)
(1) Indicates the ammunition contains an irritant (harassing) agent.
Gray with Dark Green Band(s)
(1) Indicates the ammunition contains a toxic agent.
*Black
(1) Identifies armor-defeating ammunition, except on underwater
ordnance.
Silver/Aluminum
(1) Identifies countermeasure ammunition.
Light Green
(1) Identifies smoke or marker ammunition.
Light Red
(1) Identifies incendiary ammunition or indicates the presence of
highly flammable material.
*White
(1) Indicates illuminating ammunition or ammunition producing a
colored light; exceptions, underwater ordnance, guided missiles,
and rocket motors.
Light Blue
(1) Identifies ammunition used for training or firing practice.
*Orange
(1) Identifies ammunition used for tracking or recovery.
Bronze
(1) Identifies Dummy/Drill/Inert ammunition used for handling and
loading training.
Nonsignificant Colors
Olive Drab
(1) All ammunition items.
Black
(1) For lettering.
White
(1) For lettering.
(2) For guided missiles and rocket motors.
*NOTES: The following colors when applied as stated have NO identification color coding
significance:
a. The colors GRAY, ORANGE, BLACK, WHITE, BRICK RED OR GREEN on underwater ord-
.nance, such as mines and torpedoes, and the color WHITE on guided missiles or rocket motors.
b. The colors BLACK and WHITE when used for lettering.
c. The color WHITE when used in diamond shaped figures on ammunition.
Table 12-1.Ammunition Color Codes
Painting
Painting (table 12-1) is the application of the final
body coating to ammunition, ammunition components,
or ammunition containers by authorized activities.
Usually, paint color identifies the use or explosive
hazards of the ammunition; however, sometimes it has
no meaning.
Marking
Marking is the application of colored spots, bands,
or symbols on ammunition, ammunition components,
or ammunition containers. Markings, by their color or
shape, identify ammunition fillers or the presence of
specific ammunition components.
Chemical filler ammunition, ammunition com-
ponents, and ammunition containers are identified by
bands that are color-coded (table 12-1). Marking
symbols placed on a line parallel to the colored bands
identifies chemical fillers.
Lettering
Lettering is the use of letters, words, abbreviations,
or numerals on ammunition, ammunition components,
or ammunition containers. Lettering is put on
ammunition by die stamping, stenciling, decals,
etching, or rubber-stamping. Lettering identifies the
type, mark and modification, ammunition lot number,
and loading information of the ammunition item.
Lettering applied in black or white has no color-code
significance.
Mark and Modification Designation
The Mk number is an Arabic numeral and
represents a basic design. A modification (Mod)
number to represent a less than major change in design
follows it. For example, the mark/modification number
assigned to a general-purpose bomb without a change
to the basic design is Mk 82 Mod O. If a minor change
to the basic design is incorporated, it is designated as
Mk 82 Mod 1. If further changes are incorporated, the
modification designations are assigned in sequence,
Mod 2, Mod 3, Mod 4, and so forth.
Some explosive devices and ordnance or armament
(such as cluster weapons and bomblets used in cluster
weapons) are designated by groups of letters and
numbers. An example of this type designation is
BLU-7A/B (table 12-2).
U.S. Army ammunition retains the Army identifier
that uses a letter, numeral, and letter and numeral
system. For example, the model is designated M23. The
first modification of this model is designated M23A1,
and subsequent modifications are designated by
M23A2, M23A3, etc. If the Navy and Army jointly
developed an item, the letters AN (Army/Navy)
precedes the model identifying designation. For
example, a model is designated AN-M173. The first
modification of this model is designated AN-M173A1.
Later modifications are designated as AN-M173A2,
AN-M173A3, etc.
Department of Defense Identification Code
(DODIC) and Navy Ammunition Logistic Code
(NALC)
The Department of Defense Identification Code
(DODIC) is a four-digit code assigned by the Defense
Logistics Services Center (DLSC). It identifies
ammunition and explosive items (non-nuclear) within
the supply system applicable to all the armed forces.
The Navy Ammunition Logistic Code (NALC) is a
four-digit code assigned by Ships Parts Control Center
(SPCC). It identifies Navy-unique items of ordnance.
The DODIC and NALC are interchangeable terms
and are included as part of the letter identification
contained on ammunition and ammunition
components. These codes are used specifically for
logistic control and ammunition administration.
If an ammunition item or ammunition component
has been modified, a DODIC/NALCcode is assigned to
the modified item. For example, Mk 105 Mod O is
assigned code A811 and Mk 105 Mod 1 is assigned
code A894. A complete listing of DODICs and NALCs
12-3
Bomb or Mine
Seventh Model and First Modification
Unit Must Be Expended on Mission
BLU
7A
/B
Table 12-2.Item Identification Designations for Cluster Munitions
is contained in Navy Ammunition Logistics Codes,
NAVAIR 11-1-116B/TW010-AA-ORD-030.
Ammunition Lot Number
An ammunition lot is a quantity of ammunition
assembled from uniform components under similar
conditions. A lot is expected to function in a uniform
manner. Each ammunition lot (table 12-3) is assigned a
code number (ammunition lot number) that identifies
all ammunition items assembled as part of that lot.
For specific ammunition lot numbers, you should
refer to Identification of Ammunition, NAVSEA
SW010-AF-ORD-010/NAVAIR 11-1-117.
12-4
KEY DEFINITION
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
Lot sequence number
Manufacturer's identification symbol
Month of production (two digit)
Year of production (two digit)
Month of production (single alpha)
JANA MAYE SEPJ
FEBB JUNF OCTK
MARC JULG NOVL
APRD AUGH DECM
Interfix number
Lot suffix (alpha)
Example:
Lot Number,
Method 1: 11 ABC 0588
Key: (a) (b) (c)(d)
(Note that (c) and (d) will be used to compute service life.)
Example:
Lot Number,
Method 2: XYE 88 E 001-011A
Key: (b) (d) (e) (f)(a)(g)
(Note that (d) and (e) will be used to compute service life.)
Table 12-3.Derivation of Lot Number
MAGAZINES
Explosives and ammunition are stowed in
magazines or areas designated for the specific
materials. NAVSEASYSCOM designs and designates
all magazines or storage areas. The type and amount of
material that may be stowed in any magazine depends
on the type of magazine in relation to the explosive
safety quantity-distance requirements.
Types of Magazines
Magazines located at naval air stations and other
naval installations are of various sizes, types of
construction, and classes, depending upon the nature of
the material to be stowed. Magazines are designated as
high-explosive magazines, smokeless-powder mag-
azines, and ready-service magazines according to their
intended use. Magazines are further classified by type
of designsurface, subsurface, arch-type, earth-
covered, or barricaded.
Recently designed magazines used to store
smokeless powder, pyrotechnics, loaded projectiles,
fixed ammunition, small-arms ammunition, and other
fire or missile hazard materials are of two general
typesthe rectangular, earth-covered magazine and
the concrete, triple-arch, earth-covered magazine.
1. The rectangular, earth-covered magazine (50
feet by 100 feet) is constructed of reinforced
concrete throughout.
2. The concrete, triple-arch, earth-covered
magazine has three arches. The combined
arches make up a single magazine; however,
each arch is separated by a minimum of 10 feet
at the door, and the space is filled with dirt. The
standard floor size of each arch in the
triple-arch construction is 25 feet by 80 feet.
Each of the three arches may be used for a
different type of compatible material.
Magazines constructed since 1928 that are used for
storing high explosive, bomb-type ammunition, and
other explosive hazard materials are made of reinforced
concrete, single-arch, earth-covered type construction
and they are barricaded at the entrance end. These
magazines have been constructed in three sizes:
1. The 25 feet by 50 feet and the 25 feet by 40 feet
sizes are suitable for the stowage of 250,000
pounds net weight of explosives.
2. The 25 feet by 80 feet size is suitable for the
stowage of 500,000 pounds net weight of
explosives.
Additionally, the following miscellaneous types of
magazines may be found at certain establishments.
KEYPORT - The keyport magazine is earth-
covered and arch-shaped with a prefabricated concrete
construction. It has interior floor dimensions of 6 feet
by 8 feet 8 inches. The height of the arch is
approximately 6 feet.
BOX- Abox magazine is of concrete construction,
rectangular shape, and normally measures 12 feet by 17
feet.
CORBETTA - A corbetta magazine is of concrete
construction and is shaped like a beehive or dome.
GALLERY - A gallery magazine is a tunnel or
cave, and the dimensions will vary.
MISCELLANEOUS OR NONSTANDARD -
The physical dimensions of the miscellaneous or
nonstandard magazine depend on the type of stowed
material and the location of the magazine.
OPEN STORAGE - The type and amount of
explosives stowed in open stowage depend on the size
and location of the storage area.
Explosive Safety Quantity-Distance (ESQD)
Requirements
Explosive Safety Quantity Distance (ESQD)
requirements apply to the concentration of
ammunition, explosives, and other hazardous materials
at Naval Shore Establishments for development;
manufacturing; test and maintenance; storage, loading
and off-loading of vehicles, railcars and aircraft;
disposal; and all related handling incidents.
Explosive Safety Quantity Distance (ESQD)
requirements are based on records of actual fires and
explosions involving ammunition and explosives.
ESQD requirements safeguard personnel against
possible serious injury or equipment destruction from
possible fires or explosions. These requirements also
protect the inhabitants of nearby communities, private
and public property, and the Naval Shore Establishment
personnel. These requirements keep the loss of
valuable ammunition stores (including inert ordnance
items) to a minimum if there were a fire or explosion.
12-5
The Department of Defense (DOD) ESQD hazard
classification system is based on a system
recommended for international use by the United
Nations Organization (UNO). The UNO system has
nine classes of hazardous material; but, DOD only uses
three of the nine classesClass 1, explosives; Class 2,
Division 3, poison A; and Class 6, poisonous (toxic)
and infectious substances. Table 12-4 identifies each of
the nine classes.
In reviewing table 12-4, you can see that some
items are placed in classes other than Class 1. Since
DOD uses only Class 1 items for explosives, Class 1
assignments have been made. However, to maintain
identity, DOD places these items in Class 1 for storage
only until DOD implements other classes. As an AO,
you are involved with the storage of Class 1 material;
therefore, the information contained in this section only
deal with Class 1 classifications.
DOD Hazard Class 1 is subdivided into divisions 1
through 5, based on the character and predominance of
the associated hazards and the potential for causing
personnel casualties or property damage. These
subdivision are not based upon compatibility groups or
intended use. The division within Class 1 and the
expected hazard for each division is listed in table 12-5.
MASS-DETONATING HAZARD MATE-
RIALS (CLASS 1, DIVISION 1).Damage from
mass-detonating hazard materials is caused by
concussion or blast or by sympathetic detonation.
Prescribed distances between piles of these materials
and between magazines containing these materials
must be maintained to minimize the possibility of
sympathetic detonation or propagation. Ammunition
and explosives that are considered mass-detonating
hazards are Hazard Class 1, Division 1.
NON-MASS-DETONATINGHAZARD, FRAG-
MENT-PRODUCING MATERIALS (CLASS 1,
DIVISION 2).The principal hazards for items
within this division are fragment and blast, either
individually or in combination, depending on such
factors as storage configuration, type of packing, and
quantity. The designated minimum distances are based
upon the limited range of fragments. These are the
distances that must be used for protection of inhabited
buildings and public traffic routes. Since fragment-
producing materials can be grouped according to the
12-6
CLASS TYPE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
1
2*
3
4
5
6*
7
8
9
Ammunition and explosives, DOT Classes A, B, and C; Blasting Agents
Compressed gases, flammable and nonflammable, Poison gases (Poison A)
Flammable liquids
Flammable solids or substances
Oxidizing materials
Poisonous substances (Poison B); Irritating materials; Etiological agents
Radioactive materials
Corrosive materials
Miscellaneous dangerous substances (other regulated materials)
*Includes ammunition without explosive components which contain toxic chemical agents, and
containers of toxic chemical agents in bulk. Formerly ESQD Class 8.
Table 12-4.United Nations Organization Hazard Classes
range of the fragments produced, four fragment
distance categories have been established. This permits
flexibility of storage. Most fragments produced by
incidents in this division will fall within one of four
specified minimum distances400, 800, 1,200, and
1,800 feet.
MASS FIRE HAZARD MATERIALS (CLASS
1, DIVISION 3).Items in this division burn
vigorously. There is little or no possibility for
extinguishing them in a storage situation. Normally,
explosions will be confined to pressure ruptures of
containers and will not produce propagating shock
waves or damaging blast overpressure beyond specified
distances. A severe fire may result from the tossing
about of burning container materials, propellant, or
other flaming debris. Toxic effects, such as burning
pyrotechnic items, will not normally extend beyond the
inhabited building distances specified for this division.
MODERATE FIRE HAZARD, NO BLAST
MATERIALS (CLASS 1, DIVISION 4).Items in
this division present a fire hazard with no blast hazard
and virtually no fragmentation or toxic hazard beyond
the fire hazard clearance specified for high-risk
materials. However, separate facilities for storage and
handling of this division should not be less than 100
feet from other facilities. However, if the facilities are
of fire-resistive construction, they may be 50 feet from
each other. If devices containing explosives are such
that accidental ignition during storage or transport will
not cause external damage to the devices, either by fire,
smoke, heat, loud noise, or by visible damage to the
outer packaging, they are not considered Class 1 items.
These devices may be considered inert for storage
purposes and marked AMMUNITION NON-
EXPLOSIVE for transport purposes.
Certain articles within the division that contain one
ounce or less of explosives have (based on test results)
been classified as Class 1, Division 4S. These articles
may be considered inert for storage purposes, and they
are not subject to explosive transportation regulations.
Articles containing larger quantities of explosives, also
classified as Class 1, Division 4S, may be considered
inert for storage purposes. However, they must be
reviewed on an individual basis to determine whether
explosive transportation regulations are applicable.
VERY INSENSITIVE EXPLOSIVE ITEM
MATERIALS (CLASS 1, DIVISION 5).Items in
this division are considered very insensitive when not
stored or transported with other Class 1 materials. DOD
considers these items to be the same as Class 1,
Division 1, Compatibility Group D. There is very little
probability of accidental explosion or transition from
deflagration to detonation. The materials within this
division are shipped as ESQD Hazard Class 1, Division
5. They are stored as Class 1, Division 1, Compatibility
Group D.
Normally, technical manuals do not present the
hazard class, division, and compatibility group as they
are written in previous paragraphs. For example, an
item classified as Class 1, Division 5, Compatibility
Group D, is written as Class 1.5D; or for an item in
Class 1, Division 4, Compatibility Group S is written as
Class 1.4S.
Storage Compatibility Groups
Ammunition and explosives are assigned to one of
twelve storage compatibility groups (Athrough H, J, K,
L, and S).
12-7
DIVISION DESIGNATOR TYPE OF HAZARD
1
2
3
4
5
MASS DETONATING
NON-MASS DETONATING, FRAGMENT PRODUCING
MASS FIRE
MODERATE FIRE, NO BLAST
VERY INSENSITIVE
Table 12-5.Hazard Class 1 Division Designators and Types of Hazards
GROUP A - Group A items are initiating
explosives. These are bulk initiating explosives that
have the necessary sensitivity to heat, friction, or
percussion to make them suitable for use as initiating
elements in an explosive train. Wet lead oxide, wet lead
styphnate, wet mercury fulminate, wet tetracene, dry
RDX, and dry PETN are examples of initiating
explosives.
GROUP B - Group B items are detonators and
similar initiating devices. These are items containing
explosives that are designed to initiate or continue the
functioning of an explosive train. Detonators, blasting
caps, small arms primers, and fuzes without two or
more safing features are examples of Group B items.
GROUP C - Group C items are bulk solid
propellants, propelling charges, devices containing
propellant with or without a means of ignition, and
items that will deflagrate, explode or detonate upon
initiation. Examples of Group C items are single-,
double-, and triple-base propellants, composite
propellants, rocket motors (solid propellant), and
ammunition with inert projectiles.
GROUP D - Group D items are secondary
detonating explosive substances or black powder or
articles containing a secondary detonating explosive
substance, in each case without means of initiation and
without a propelling charge, or articles containing a
primary explosive substance and containing two or
more effective protective features. Examples of these
items are explosive switches or valves, and other
ammunition items packaged to meet the criteria
established for this group.
GROUP E - Group E items are ammunition that
contains HE without its own means of initiation with a
propulsive charge (other than one containing a
flammable or hypergolic liquid). Examples of these
items are artillery ammunition, rockets, and guided
missiles.
GROUPF- Group F items are articles containing a
secondary detonating explosive substance with its
means of initiation, with a propelling charge (other than
one containing flammable liquid or hypergolic liquid)
or without a propelling charge. Examples are items
initiated by means of a bouchon-firing device,
grenades, sounding devices, and similar items that have
an in-line explosive train in the initiator.
GROUP G - Group G items is fireworks, and
illuminating, incendiary, smoke (including HC) or
tear-producing munitions other than those munitions
that are water activated or contain white phosphorus,
flammable liquid or gel. This group includes
ammunition that, upon functioning, results in an
incendiary, illumination, lachrymatory, smoke, or
sound effect. Examples of these items are flares,
signals, incendiary or illuminating ammunition, and
other smoke or tear-producing devices.
GROUP H - Group H items contains explosives
and white phosphorus or other pyrophoric material.
Ammunition in this group contains filler, which is
spontaneously flammable when exposed to the
atmosphere. Examples of these items are white
phosphorus (WP), white phosphorus plasticized
(PWP), or other ammunition containing pyrophoric
material.
GROUP J - Ammunition in this group contains
both explosives and flammable liquids or gels. This
ammunition contains flammable liquids or gels other
than those that are spontaneously flammable when
exposed to water or to the atmosphere. Examples of
these items are liquid- or gel-filled incendiary
ammunition, fuel air explosive (FAE) devices,
flammable-fueled missiles and torpedoes.
GROUPK- Ammunition in group Kcontains both
explosives and toxic chemical agents. Ammunition in
this group contains chemicals specifically designed for
incapacitating effects that are more severe than
lachrymation. Examples of these items are artillery or
mortar ammunition (fuzed or unfuzed), grenades, and
rockets or bombs filled with a lethal or incapacitating
chemical agent.
GROUP L - Ammunition in-group L is not
included in other compatibility groups. Ammunition in
this group has characteristics that don't permit storage
with other types of ammunition, explosives, or
dissimilar ammunition within this group. Examples of
these items are water-activated devices, prepackaged
hypergolic liquid-fueled rocket engines, certain
fuel-air-explosive (FAE) devices, TPA (thickened
TEA), and damaged or suspect ammunition of any
other group. Types of ammunition having similar
hazards can be stored together but cannot be mixed with
other groups.
GROUP S - Ammunition in this group presents no
significant hazard. It is designed or packed so all the
accidental functioning hazards are confined within the
package, unless the package has been degraded by fire.
In this case, all blast or projection effects are limited to
the extent they will not significantly hinder fire-fighting
operations. Examples of these items are thermal
batteries, explosive switches or valves, and other
12-8
ammunition items that are packaged to meet the criteria
established for this group.
Ammunition and explosives are assigned to
compatibility groups. When stored within their
assigned group, ammunition and explosives can be
stored together without significantly increasing either
the probability of an accident or, for a given quantity,
the magnitude of the effects of such an accident. The
mixing of storage compatibility groups is permitted by
NAVSEASYSCOM, as shown in figure 12-1. The
mixing of storage compatibility groups other than those
shown in figure 12-1 must be approved by
NAVSEASYSCOM.
12-9
Figure 12-1.Storage compatibility mixture chart.
12-10
DIMENSIONS
(nominal)
NORMAL USE NORMAL
EXPLOSIVE
LIMIT
LETTER
DESIGNATOR
25' 80' arch type (igloo)
25' 50' arch type (igloo)
25' 40' arch type (igloo)
39' 44' or 32' 44' (warhead type)
12' 17' (box type)
Miscellaneous or nonstandard size
Open storage
25' 20' arch type (igloo)
52' dome (Corbetta type)
Dimensions vary (gallery or tunnel type)
10' 14'
10' 7'
6' 8'8" (Keyport type)
52 97 (box type A)
62 76 (box type B)
High explosives
High explosives
High explosives
High explosives
Black powder
High explosives
High explosives
Fuze and
detonator
High explosives
High explosives
Fuze and
detonator
Fuze and
detonator
High explosives
High Explosives
High Explosives
500,000 lb
250,000 lb
250,000 lb
500,000 lb
20,000 lb
Dependent
upon size,
location,
construction
Dependent
upon size,
location
70,000 lb
500,000 lb
250,000 lb
15,000 lb
7,500 lb
4,000 lb
500,000 lb
500,000 lb
A
B
B
W
E
X
R
F
D
G
H
H
K
A
A
Table 12-6.Magazine Designators for Mass Detonating Hazard of High Explosives (Bulk, Depth Charges, Mines, Warheads,
Bombs, etc.), Fuzes, Detonators, Exploders, and Black Powder
IDENTIFICATION OF FACILITIES
Buildings and magazines, including open storage
sites that contain ammunition, explosives, or chemical
and inert components, are marked according to a
standard system of identification so you can rapidly
identify the hazards associated with their contents. This
identification and numbering systemis used in addition
to any other numbers on the buildings. These standard
identification markings are stamped out over other
markings, if present. The standard identification
system consists of the magazine designator and the
symbol indicator.
The magazine designator is a three-group symbol,
composed of numbers and letters. It identifies a
magazine by location of the magazine group, the
number of the magazine within the group, and the type
of magazine construction. The magazine group
number, the type of magazine and capacity letter(s),
and the magazine sequence number form the
three-group symbol that makes up the magazine
designator.
Magazine Group Number
The magazine group number is the first number of
the magazine designator symbol. It shows the magazine
group in which the magazine is located. Each
physically separated group of magazines or, at smaller
stations, each noncontiguous magazine area is assigned
a number, making it easy to identify the group. The
group numbers begin with 1 and continue in ascending
numerical order. If only one magazine group exists, the
number 1 is used. For example, the numeral 4 in the first
position of the magazine designator 4XTX4 indicates
that this magazine is located within magazine group 4.
Magazine Type and Capacity Letter(s)
The magazine type and capacity letter(s) shows the
type and capacity of the magazine. For this reason,
magazines of certain sizes are assigned a letter
designation as indicated in tables 12-6, 12-7, 12-8, and
12-9. To show the type of magazine, for example, the
letter T is added if the magazine is earth-covered and
barricaded. If the magazine is earth-covered but not
barricaded the letter C is added. If the magazine is not
earth-covered but is barricaded, the letter S is added.
Therefore, in the magazine designator 4XTX4, the
letter X in the second position indicates that the
magazine size is miscellaneous or nonstandard, and it is
normally used for storing high explosives. Also, the
normal explosive storage limit depends on the
magazine's size, location, and type of construction.
The explosive limits contained in tables 12-4
through 12-7 are maximum capacities. They are based
on magazine design and construction characteristics.
These limits are further subject to the ESQD
considerations discussed previously. Additional
limitations are shown in the magazine designator.
When the ESQDrelationship, as indicated in the tables,
doesn't permit using the explosive capacity design of a
standard magazine because of insufficient separating
distances, the letter X, Y, or Z is added to the designator.
These letters indicate the magazine contains mass
detonation hazards, mass fire hazards, or fragment-
producing hazards, respectively. For example, in the
magazine designator 4XTX4, the letter X in the fourth
position tells you that the magazine doesn't have a
sufficient separating distance from other structures or
magazines.
Before 1985, naval facilities used to store or
maintain ammunition or explosives used a standard
two-part system of identificationa color-hazard
indicator and a magazine designator. The color hazard
indicator has been replaced by a system of fire,
chemical hazard, and fire-fighting direction
symbols. When possible, mount placards at locations
that are visible for a minimum distance of 500 feet in
the daytime. Placards are placed on the road at
distances of not less than 500 feet to indicate the
magazine contents. This is required when vegetation or
curves in the road obstruct visibility. When the contents
of the magazine are changed or removed, the placards
are also changed or removed. These placards are
displayed to help fire fighters identify, from a safe
distance, the type of hazards involved so they can
determine the types of equipment and procedures to
use.
REVIEW NUMBER 1
Q1. Mandatory regulations governing the storage
of ammunition ashore are found in ________.
Q2. What prefabricated, concrete-constructed
magazine is earth-covered and arch-shaped?
Q3. What is the normal size of a box-type mag-
azine?
Q4. What concrete-constructed magazine is
shaped like a beehive or dome?
Q5. What magazine type consists of a tunnel or
cave that has varied dimensions?
12-11
12-12
DIMENSIONS
(nominal)
MAXIMUM EXPLOSIVE LIMIT LETTER
DESIGNATOR
50' 100'
25' 80' triple-arch
25' dome (Corbetta type)
Miscellaneous or non-
standard size
500,000 lb
500,000 lb
(total for three
arches)
500,000 lb
150,000 lb
P
P
D
Z
Table 12-8.Magazine Designators for Fragment Hazard of Projectile and Fixed Ammunition
DIMENSIONS
(nominal)
TYPE LETTER
DESIGNATOR
All inert storehouses SH
Table 12-9.Magazine Designators for Miscellaneous Magazines
DIMENSIONS
(nominal)
NORMAL EXPLOSIVE
LIMIT
LETTER
DESIGNATOR
50' 100'
25' 80' triple-arch
52' dome (Corbetta type)
50' 60'
30' 50'
25' 48'
25' 40'
Miscellaneous or non-
standard size
1,000,000 lb
1,000,000 lb
1,000,000 lb
300,000 lb
125,000 lb
125,000 lb
125,000 lb
Dependent upon
location, size,
and construction
L
L
D
M
N
N
N
Y
Table 12-7.Magazine Designators for Fire Hazard of Powder (Bulk or Semifixed Ammunition), Pyrotechnics, Ignition Fuzes and
Primers, Small Arms, Smoke Drums, and Explosive-Loaded Chemical Ammunition
Q6. What types of items are contained in storage
compatibility Group B?
Q7. Black powder belongs in compatibility
storage group _____.
Q8. What type of ammunition is found in
compatibility Group S?
Q9. The first number in a magazine designator
symbol shows the __________.
Q10. The letter T in the third position of a magazine
designator indicates that the ________.
AMMUNITION STORAGE ASHORE
FOR ADVANCED BASES
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify am-
munition storage ashore for advanced bases to
include facilities, magazines, and handling
requirements.
Advanced base is the general term for a temporary
base that is in or near a forward area outside the zone of
the interior. The primary mission of an advanced base is
to support wartime operations of the armed forces.
Advanced bases are established to perform one or more
of the following functions: to hold threatened strategic
areas; to protect, or be part of, a line of communications
and supply; to serve as a base for direct offensive
operations; or to serve as a base for mounting or
supporting further offensives.
If a valid reason for not complying with storage and
handling regulations/instructions at advanced bases is
not contained in NAVSEA OP 5, VOL 1, you need to
refer to Ammunition Ashore, NAVSEA OP 5, VOL 3.
AMMUNITION STORING AND HANDLING
FACILITIES
When you establish an advanced base, divide the
storing and handling facilities into areas. These areas
should correspond to the functions required by the
mission of the base, to make ordnance-handling
operations easier and smoother, and to isolate hazards.
Areas at advanced bases are designated as magazine,
renovation, disposal, pier, enemy ammunition, and
administration and personnel areas. These areas are
discussed briefly in the following paragraphs.
Magazine Areas. Provide two or more magazine
or storage areas for each advanced base. This allows
you to disperse ammunition stows, and makes it easier
to receive and issue ammunition. The primary objective
in dispersing ammunition is to prevent the complete
loss of a single type of ammunition because of fire,
accidental explosion, or hostile action. Ample
provision should be made for expansion during the
initial planning of magazine areas.
Renovation Areas. Some ammunition received at
advanced bases would become unserviceable if it were
improperly handled or exposed to the elements. This
would make it require renovation. Since renovation
operations may be performed at advanced bases, a
suitable area must be provided for segregation, exterior
maintenance, and modification operations.
Disposal Areas. Normally, an area unusable for
other purposes is chosen for an ammunition disposal
area. The disposal site should be at least 800 yards
from the nearest ammunition storage site and any
inhabited area of the base. The site should be cleared of
all vegetation. A powder burning area, detonation pits,
and a component popping pit should be included in the
site. Provide a splinter proof or other suitable shelter to
protect personnel during demolition operations. Where
facilities are available, ammunition may be
destroyed by dumping at sea. Existing directives
should be consulted for disposal procedures.
Pier Areas. In the initial stages of construction of
an ammunition storage area at an advanced base, an
isolated and separate ammunition pier should be
provided. Such a facility eliminates congestion, delay,
and unnecessary hazards when loading and unloading
general cargo, fuels, and ammunition.
Enemy Ammunition Areas. A separate area
should be provided for storing captured enemy
ammunition. This area should be at least 800 yards
from the other storage areas.
Administration and Personnel Areas.
Administration and personnel areas must be at least
800 yards from the ammunition storage and handling
areas.
Ammunition Storage Facilities
Ammunition is stored at advanced bases in
approved magazines, existing buildings, and in dry
caves and tunnels. Ammunition may also be stored in
the open, in quarries, pits, and similar areas. Don't put
ammunition in caves, tunnels, quarries, or pits if there
isn't adequate drainage. When possible, assign
available magazines and buildings for storing the more
fragile and perishable ammunition, such as
pyrotechnics, ammunition containing smokeless
powder, fuzes, and similar components. Store the more
12-13
durable ammunition, such as aircraft bombs and depth
charges, in the open, provided it affords maximum
protection against corrosion and deterioration.
PREFABRICATED MAGAZINES.Advanced
base magazines (fig. 12-2) are prefabricated,
earth-covered, arch-type structures that are used to
provide weatherproof storage for ammunition of all
types.
The barrel of each advanced base magazine is an
arch made of sheets of corrugated sheet metal bolted
together to form a semicircular-arch roof. Two
screened, sheet metal ventilators are mounted on top of
the arch, one at the front of the magazine and one at the
rear. The rear wall is constructed of corrugated sheet
metal. The front wall is constructed of wide,
heavy-gauge metal plates, which are reinforced with
angles and channels. The front wall extends above and
to each side of the outer limits of the magazine,
providing retaining walls for the earth fill. The ends of
the plates that extend beyond the limits of the magazine
are secured to the structure by turnbuckle rods. The
magazine floor is a concrete slab placed on compacted
gravel or broken stone fill. A pair of 8-foot, double-leaf
doors is placed in the front wall of the magazine.
Screened louvers are placed in each door for
ventilation. Table 12-10 lists the available magazine
sizes, maximum storage capacities, and the
recommended separation distances between the
magazines.
A barricade is placed opposite the front wall of
each magazine used for the storage of high explosives
or fuzes and detonators. The barricade extends to the
height of the inside crown of the magazine arch. The
barricade must be at least 3 feet wide at the crest and
slope to a grade on the natural slope of the earth used as
fill.
12-14
MAGAZINE
SIZE
MAXIMUM
CAPACITY
QUANTITY-DISTANCE
UNBARRICADED
QUANTITY-DISTANCE
BARRICADED
16 36
50,000 200 feet 115 feet
25 48
150,000 290 feet 165 feet
Table 12-10.Prefabricated Advanced Base Magazines
Figure 12-2.Typical advanced base magazine.
REVIEW NUMBER 1
ANSWERS
A1. Mandatory regulations governing the storage
of ammunition ashore are found in OP 5
VOL 1.
A2. The keyport magazine is a prefabricated,
concrete-constructed magazine that is
earth-covered and arch-shaped.
A3. The normal size of a box-type magazine is 12
feet by 17 feet.
A4. The Corbetta magazine is a concrete-
constructed magazine shaped like a beehive
or dome.
A5. The Gallery magazine consists of a tunnel or
cave that has varied dimensions.
A6. Detonators and similar initiating devices are
contained in storage compatibility Group B.
A7. Black powder belongs in compatibility
storage group D.
A8. Ammunition that doesn't present any
significant hazard is found in compatibility
Group S.
A9. The first number in a magazine designator
symbol shows the magazine group number.
A10. The letter T in the third position of a magazine
designator indicates that the magazine is
earth-covered and barricaded.
Identification of Magazines and Open Storage
Sites
When practicable, magazines, buildings used as
magazines, and piles of ammunition stored in the open
are marked according to the system of identification
you have already read about. At advanced bases, the
identification system consists of two partsa group
construction symbol and a symbol hazard indicator.
The group construction symbol is a three-group
symbol that consists of the following:
1. A number indicating the group in which the
magazine or open storage site is located,
2. A letter or group of letters designating the type
and capacity of the magazine, and
3. A number designating the sequence of the
magazine within the magazine group or area.
Letter designators for advanced base storage are
indicated in table 12-11. To indicate the nature of the
construction of the magazine, the letter T is added if the
magazine is earth-covered and barricaded; the letter C
is added if the magazine is earth-covered, but the door
isn't barricaded. The letter T is also used to designate
open storage. Advanced base magazines, buildings
used as magazines, caves, tunnels, and open storage
sites do not conform to the standard magazine sizes
prescribed in NAVSEA OP 5, volume 1. Therefore, the
letters X, Y, or Z that identify explosion hazard, fire
hazard, or fragment hazard, respectively, are used in
place of the standard letter designators. Accordingly,
XT is applied to an earth-covered, barricaded,
advanced base magazine that is used for storing high
explosives.
12-15
STORAGE DESIGNATOR
Advanced base magazine:
Explosion hazard
Fire hazard
Fragment hazard
Open storage
Caves and tunnels
X
Y
Z
R
G
Table 12-11.Letter Designators for Advanced Base Storage
In addition, the following information must be
conspicuously posted on one door in each magazine or
building that contains ammunition:
1. The hazard classification of ammunition
(explosion, fire, or fragment) stored there.
2. The maximum quantities of ammunition in
each hazard classification as determined from
the explosive safety quantity-distance tables.
3. Safety precautions and regulations that pertain
to the specific material presently stored in the
magazine or building.
Post this information at each outside (open)
ammunition storage site. Print the information on a card
so it is protected fromthe weather. Then, put the card in
a locally manufactured ammunition site sign and
cardholder, as shown in figure 12-3.
Advanced base magazines are built in the most
suitable location for storing one of the three hazard
classificationsexplosion, fire, or fragment. Since all
advanced base magazines are of the same type of
construction, all three-hazard classifications may be
stored in them if they are within ESQD limitations.
However, the group construction symbol designates the
type of storage for which the magazine is most suitable.
Don't change this symbol to show the magazine's
present or new use, unless the change is permanent.
DISPURSION OF AMMUNITION
Ammunition disbursement is a main consideration
in laying out an ammunition storage area at an
advanced base. Each type of ammunition is stored in
two widely separated areas. This prevents losing an
entire supply of an ammunition item if there is a fire or
explosion. Explosive stores are separated from other
stores, as specified in the ESQD tables.
Group piles of ammunition stored in the open by
categories. These groups are discussed in the following
paragraphs. These groupings aren't compatibility
groups; they are only used to ensure safe distances are
maintained between piles and stacks of ammunition.
CATEGORY A. This category of material
presents a fire hazard. It includes propelling charges,
bag charges, rocket motors, pyrotechnics, and small
arms ammunition. Category A material should be
separated from materials in the other categories (B
through E) by at least 350 feet.
CATEGORY B. This category of material
presents fire and fragment or fragment and explosion
hazards. It includes fixed ammunition, separate-
loading projectiles, complete rockets (assembled or
unassembled), grenades, and mortars. Category B
material should be separated frommaterials in the other
categories by at least 300 feet.
12-16
Figure 12-3.Ammunition site sign and card holder.
CATEGORY C. This category of material
presents an explosion hazard. This category includes
bombs, warheads, depth charges, mines, demolition
material, and bulk explosives. Category C material
should be separated from materials in the other
categories by at least 695 feet.
CATEGORY D. This category of material
includes fuzes and detonators. Category D material
should be separated from materials in the other
categories by at least 200 feet.
CATEGORY E. This category of material
includes chemical ammunition. Category E material
should be separated from materials in the other
categories by at least 400 feet.
REVIEW NUMBER 2
Q1. Describe the purpose of an advanced base.
Q2. What is the purpose of having at least two
storage areas for each type of ammunition at
an advanced base?
Q3. The disposal area at an advanced base should
be a minimum of what distance from
ammunition storage sites and inhabited
areas?
Q4. List the characteristics of a prefabricated
magazine at an advanced base.
Q5. At an advanced base, ammunition in
Category A poses what sort of hazard?
MAGAZINE MAINTENANCE,
STORAGE, AND HANDLING
REQUIREMENTS
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Identify the types
of procedures used for magazine maintenance,
storage, and handling to include personnel
requirements, lightning protection systems,
magazine security, and ammunition handling
and shipping.
Proper explosives and ammunition storage
facilities are only a part of the overall storage system.
Among the most important aspects of the storage of
ammunition is the proper maintenance of magazines
and magazine areas.
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
Normally, all personnel engaged in operations that
involve ammunition, explosives, and other hazardous
materials are trained and qualified to perform their
assigned duties. In addition to being qualified and
certified, personnel involved with hazardous explosive
operations are certified by a physician as physically
qualified. Personnel aren't knowingly permitted or
required to work when their ability or alertness is
impaired because of fatigue, illness, or other reasons.
This would expose them and other personnel to injury.
Occasionally, manpower shortages cause a need for
assistance by personnel from other Navy ratings to join
working parties to handle or transport ammunition and
explosives. These working parties are referred to as
augmentation crews. Before using augmentation crews,
try to make sure that personnel in the working party are
trained so mistakes aren't made or safety factors
violated. Furthermore, make sure enough qualified
representatives, preferably officers or petty officers that
are senior in rank to any member of the working party,
are present to detect or prevent violations of safety
orders and other unsafe practices. They should take
whatever action is required to correct the situation.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS
Lightning protection is required for all ordnance
handling buildings, storage facilities, and handling
areas that have more than 5 days per year when
thunderstorms occur.
There are two types of lightning protection
systemsprimary and secondary. The primary system
prevents damage from direct lightning strikes by
diverting the strike and providing a low-impedance
path to ground. The secondary system maintains all
metal objects within its system at the same electrical
potential. This prevents the possibility of sparking
between the objects.
Primary Systems
There are two types of primary lightning protection
systems acceptable to NAVSEASYSCOMthe
separately mounted lightning mast system and the
separately mounted overhead ground (aerial shield)
wire system.
LIGHTNING MAST SYSTEM.This type of
primary system consists of lightning masts
(freestanding air terminals) placed around a facility and
connected to a buried primary girdle. A sufficient
number of masts are used to protect the entire structure
within the combined cones of the masts. The
dimensions of the structure determine the number and
12-17
height of masts required to adequately protecting a
structure.
OVERHEAD GROUND (AERIAL SHIELD)
WIRE SYSTEM.This system consists of overhead
lightning protection conductors spanned between
lightning masts above a facility. The conductors are
connected to a buried ground girdle or to ground rods
only, depending upon the type of installation.
Secondary System
The secondary lightning protection systemconsists
of a buried girdle to which all metal parts are connected
at the lowest point. This implies that electrical access to
all reinforced steel must be provided during
construction. The normal wire ties are considered
sufficient to provide electrical connection between the
sections of reinforced steel that are in contact with each
other.
MAGAZINE AND MAGAZINE AREA
SECURITY
Nonclimbable fences protect magazine areas. All
the entrances are locked unless guards are posted. Post
a sign at all the entrances to restricted areas. The sign
indicates that every vehicle must stop, that each person
must present proper credentials to the guard, and that
all articles prohibited within the area must be given to
the guard. The exact wording of the signs are left to the
discretion of the commanding officer. However, the
word explosive doesn't appear on the sign, and the sign
isn't attached to the magazines.
Special precautions are taken to guard or patrol the
areas that not protected by suitable fencing. Magazine
and explosives areas where ammunition, explosives,
and other items of high-security classification are
stored must be adequately guarded at all times.
Don't let unauthorized personnel enter or remain in
any magazine or explosives area. Personnel involved in
ammunition handling operations are authorized in
magazines or buildings that contain explosives only as
required, and they must enter and leave explosives areas
at designated points.
Additional information on the requirements for
posting, fencing, unguarded facilities and vehicles,
emergency events, and security alarm systems is found
in Department of the Navy Physical Security
Instruction for Sensitive Conventional Arms,
Ammunitions and Explosives (AA&E), OPNAVINST
5530.13.
REVIEW NUMBER 2 ANSWERS
A1. An advanced base is a temporary base that is
in or near a forward area outside the zone of
the interior. Its primary mission is to support
a wartime operation.
A2. At least two storage areas for each type of
ammunition is needed at an advanced base to
prevent loss of a particular type of
ammunition if there were a fire or explosion.
A3. The disposal area at an advanced base should
be a minimum of 800 yards from ammunition
storage sites and inhabited areas?
A4. A prefabricated magazine at an advanced
base is an earth-covered, arch-type structure.
A5. At an advanced base, ammunition in
Category A poses a fire hazard.
MAGAZINE/MAGAZINE AREA
INSPECTIONS
The commanding officer, or duly authorized
representative, requires regular and frequent magazine
inspections. These inspections include ready-service
lockers, ready-service magazines, and magazine areas.
Magazine inspections are conducted to make sure the
following conditions are met:
Ensure magazine repairs are made, if needed.
Ensure that safety regulations, particularly those
that involve cleanliness and elimination of fire
hazards, are observed.
Ensure that magazine contents are not
deteriorating into an unsafe condition, and they
are stored in an orderly, compatible, and
approved manner.
The magazine area inspections are designed to
make sure the following actions are being maintained:
Firebreaks are being maintained.
Fire protection equipment, when required, is
available and serviceable.
Roads are good and in usable condition.
Fences are secure.
At times area inspections are performed more often
than magazine inspections, particularly during seasons
when grass or brush fires are most likely to occur.
12-18
General Inspection Requirements
Some of the types of things you look for when
conducting general magazine inspections are security,
safety, cleanliness, atmosphere (temperature and
humidity), identification of contents, and posting. A
checklist covering all safety regulations and
requirements of magazine operations is used when you
conduct magazine inspections. This helps you make
sure you don't overlook violations or hazards. The
checklist provides an adequate and full description of
any condition that is unsatisfactory and in violation of
requirements. Make sure the checklist is properly
authenticated and made a part of the magazine log.
Frequency of Inspections
The inspection frequency is determined by the
commanding officer or duly authorized representative.
The frequency varies, depending on the number of
magazines to be inspected, weather conditions, season
of the year, number of magazines requiring special
attention (for example, environmentally controlled),
and security requirements of magazines/magazine
areas. Inspections are conducted during daylight hours.
Make sure there is enough light to see that any
substandard condition that exists is seen and reported to
the inspector. The exception to this procedure is
security inspections; they are conducted during the day
and at night.
Temperature Control Considerations
The majority of the ordnance items in the Navy
inventory are designed to withstand temperatures in the
range of 130 to 160 Fahrenheit. Temperatures within
conventional ordnance storage magazines seldom
exceed 105 Fahrenheit. Therefore, you don't have to
closely monitor the temperatures within these
magazines. However, in the case of special magazines,
such as certain missile/missile components, torpedoes,
and mine magazines that require environmental
control, control-system monitoring is still required.
Report of Inspections
You must record the date and hour of each
inspection in a magazine inspection log above the
signature of the person who made the inspection.
Promptly report substandard or abnormal conditions to
the officer or supervisor in charge of correcting it. Then
annotate the observed conditions in the log. Note
satisfactory and normal conditions in the log by the
entry normal. Magazine inspection logs may be
destroyed 1 year from the date of last entry.
REVIEW NUMBER 3
Q1. Describe the two types of primary lightning
protection systems acceptable to NAVSEA-
SYSCOM.
Q2. Lightning masts are connected to a
_____________.
Q3. To what instruction should you refer for
specific requirements about the physical
security of naval magazines?
Q4. When are magazine inspections conducted?
Q5. Describe the information recorded on the
magazine inspection log above the signature
of the person conducting the inspection.
AMMUNITION HANDLING
The AO must be familiar with handling
ammunition. It is a repetitious task, whether at a shore
station or aboard ship. Repetitious work, no matter how
dangerous, often becomes routine and leads to
carelessness. Therefore, pay attention to what you are
doing to prevent accidents in operations dealing with
ammunition and explosives.
Whenever ammunition or explosives are received,
transferred, or stowed, an officer or petty officer that
knows the rules governing the care and handling of
ammunition supervises the work. The supervisor
makes sure that all work personnel are aware of the
need to be careful when they handle ammunition and
explosives.
Handling equipment is properly maintained and
frequently inspected to make sure it is in safe working
condition. Also, the handling equipment must be the
right equipment for the purpose. Inspections are made
before and during loading/unloading operations.
AMMUNITION SHIPPING
Ammunition shipping is a phase of ammunition
handling. Instructions for the preparation and shipment
of naval ordnance material are contained in Navy
Transportation Safety Handbook for Ammunition,
Explosives and Related Hazardous Materials,
NAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010. The instruction
NAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010 cover the preparation,
flow, and use of all the documents that are required to
12-19
ship, receive, and report shipments. Instructions for the
use of ordnance transport equipment, materials to be
transported, division of responsibility for carrying out
inspections, and criteria for accepting or rejecting
equipment are also contained in this publication.
NAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010 contains the general
information needed for you to safely perform the duties
required when shipping ordnance materials.
REVIEW NUMBER 3 ANSWERS
A1. The two types of primary lightning protection
systems acceptable to NAVSEASYSCOM are
the sequentially mounted lightning system
and the separately mounted overhead ground
(aerial shield) wire system.
A2. Lightning masts are connected to a buried
primary girdle.
A3. For specific requirements about the physical
security of naval magazines, you should refer
to OPNAVINST 5530.13.
A4. Magazine inspections are conducted only
during daylight hours.
A5. The information recorded on the magazine
inspection log above the signature of the
person conducting the inspection includes the
date and hour of each inspection as well as
abnormal or substandard conditions of the
magazines, or the word "Normal" if
conditions were satisfactory.
Explosives Driver
An explosive driver is often an AO with an
excellent safe driving record, and a person fully
qualified according to Motor Vehicle's Driver's
Handbook Ammunition, Explosives, and Hazardous
Materials, NAVSEA OP 2239. To become a qualified
explosive driver, you must meet the qualifications
described below. If you meet these qualifications, you
are certified to drive motor vehicles that transport
hazardous materials (HM).
STATE OPERATOR'S LICENSE.An explo-
sives driver must hold a valid state operator's license,
not necessarily issued by the state in which the activity
is located. This applies to operation of vehicles both on-
and off-station. This requirement is permanently
waived for those personnel stationed outside the 50
states that would otherwise be eligible to obtain an
explosive driver's permit.
MEDICAL EXAMINERS CERTIFICATE.
An explosives driver must undergo a explosive physical
examination and, on the basis of such an examination,
be certified by a licensed doctor of medicine or
osteopathy to ensure that he/she meets applicable
12-20
Figure 12-4.Medical Examiner's Certificate, ATA Form C0750.
requirements as stated in the Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations. Applicants who pass the prescribed
explosive physical examination are issued a Medical
Examiner's Certificate, ATA (American Trucking
Association) Form C0750. (See fig. 12-4.) This
certificate, in addition to the explosive driver's permit,
must be on the operator's person while driving any
vehicle transporting HM.
EXPLOSIVES DRIVER PERMIT.An explo-
sives driver must hold a U.S. Government Motor
Vehicle Operator's Identification Card, Standard Form
46 (SF 46). (See fig. 12-5.) The card will be noted:
"Explosives Driver (Must hold a current medical
certificate)." The SF 46 is valid for 3 years and must be
renewed prior to expiration. A yearly endorsement is
not required. An individual's safety record and physical
requirements will be considered prior to recertification
as an explosive driver.
AGE AND EXPERIENCE.An explosives
driver must be 18 years of age or older to operate motor
vehicles transporting HM on-station and 21 years of
age or over for off-station motor vehicle HM
operations. The explosive driver must also have had
considerable and varied driving experience with the
type of equipment to be operated and have a safe
driving record.
MENTAL REQUIREMENTS.Applicants,
military and civilian, are required to pass a mental
examination that is administered by the local command
before they can be considered eligible to be explosives
drivers.
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS.An applicant for
explosives driver certification found to be addicted to
alcohol or drugs is rejected. Certification is revoked for
an explosive driver found to be under the influence of
alcohol or drugs while on duty or when showing
evidence of addiction. Temporary revocation of HM
certification may become necessary when the use of
physician-prescribed drugs are likely to interfere with
the driver's ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
12-21
Figure 12-5.U.S. Government Motor Vehicle Operator's Identification Card, SF 46.
ABILITY TO READ AND UNDERSTAND
REGULATIONS.An explosives driver must be able
to read, write, and understand the English language,
and to complete the various forms for which a driver is
responsible. The driver is required to read and
understand the regulations that pertain to the duties as
prescribed in NAVSEA OP 2239.
In addition to these qualifications, if you apply for
certification as an explosive driver, you are required to
complete an explosive driver's training course and pass
the tests given at the conclusion of the course. All
explosive drivers receive at least 12 hours of instruction
in the following activities:
Driving trucks, truck-tractors with semi trailers,
and other vehicles of appropriate types
Handling and transporting hazardous materials
Interpreting regulations and procedures
pertaining to the transporting of hazardous
materials
Training and use of fire extinguishers
Completing and filing required reports
When operating Navy-owned vehicles, you, as an
operator, must comply with DOD regulations and all
state and local traffic laws. You are also subject to fine
or imprisonment when you violate these regulations
and traffic laws.
REVIEW NUMBER 4
Q1. To what publication should you refer for
information about transporting hazardous
materials?
Q2. What is the minimum age requirement for an
explosive driver to transport explosives
off-station?
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety precautions prescribe the minimum
requirements and regulations you should observe when
handling ammunition. These regulations may be
general in nature or step-by-step procedures.
Regardless of the situation, safety precautions must
NEVER be ignored or bypassed, even during the
simplest ammunition-handling evolutions.
The general safety precautions listed below show
some of the regulations contained in publications
referred to in this chapter.
1. Properly stow all materials within a magazine
and keep them in a safe condition. Never let
trash resulting from decanning, depalletizing,
or unpacking accumulate in a magazine. It
presents a fire hazard and unsafe working
conditions for personnel.
2. Don't use improvised tools, platforms, or
ladders.
3. Before ammunition loading, explosives load-
ing, or offloading operations, either at a shore
activity or a ship underway, inspect all fire
mains to make sure they operate properly and
efficiently. Fire hoses must be laid out ready for
use in the immediate area of operations. The
hoses must be laid out so those damage control
and fire boundaries are not crossed, using all
risers available. Additionally, keep the valves
controlling these fires hoses open so that water
is readily available.
4. Flame, heat, or spark-producing devices aren't
permitted where explosives or flammable
materials, batteries, or battery charging lockers
are located. Cigarette lighters, heaters, fires,
welding tools, soldering irons, cutting torches,
and uncovered lights are included in this
category. When work requiring the use of
flame, heat, or spark-producing devices is
urgently required in or adjacent to an
ammunition stowage space, follow the
procedures outlined in OPNAVINST 8023.2
(series) and OPNAVINST 8023.21 (series).
5. Emphasize safety precautions applicable to
in-service ammunition items or equipment by
using applicable signs throughout the ship.
Signs may be obtained as Cog I material. They
are indexed in Section 13 of Navy Stock List of
Forms and PublicationsCognizance Symbol
I, NAVSUP Publication 2002, or when not
listed in NAVSUP 2002, you may obtain them
from a tender-type ship by submission of a
work order.
6. Emergency drills requiring the use of the
general alarm system, ship's bell or whistles
arent conducted aboard ship while moored to
an ammunition-activity pier, unless specific
approval for such drills has been granted by the
commanding officer of the ammunition
activity.
Similarly, such emergency drills aren't conducted
by ships nested together or at a pier where
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ammunition-handling operations are in progress, or by
a ship underway during an ammunition handling
evolution.
7. Ammunition evolutions involving direct con-
tact with ammunition components are curtailed
during local atmospheric disturbances, such as
thunderstorms or high winds. Operations aren't
resumed until non-hazardous conditions
prevail.
8. Stowage of privately owned ammunition and
small arms is permitted aboard ship if approved
by the commanding officer. This type of
stowage is subject to the security requirements
of chapter 700 of the Naval Ships Technical
Manual, Ammunition Handling and Stowage,
NAVSEA S9086-XG-STM-000.
9. Ships and craft entering commercial or naval
shipyards for periods longer than 6 weeks are
completely offloaded of all ammunition,
except the small arms ammunition that the
commanding officer considers necessary for
the maintenance of security aboard ship and
inert ordnance items such as bomb fins.
If a ship is expected to remain in the yard for less
than 6 weeks, the ship offloads, as a minimum, all
ammunition or explosives that can't be stowed in
sprinkler-protected or floodable spaces.
10. The number of personnel engaged in
ammunition and explosive handling operations
is limited to the minimum necessary for safe
and efficient performance of the work.
Unauthorized personnel aren't permitted in a
magazine, missile handling or testing area, or
at any handling operation involving explosives
or ammunition. A responsible escort
accompanies visiting personnel.
11. As a general rule, any pyrotechnic device that
is armed and otherwise prepared for launching
or activating but hasn't been used may be
dearmed, restored to its original packing, and
returned to stowage. The exceptions to this rule
are Mk 25 and Mk 58 marine location markers,
Mk 46 decoy flares, and aircraft parachute
flares. If such devices can't be made safe
beyond question, they must be stowed in
lockers or disposed of according to current
directives.
12. When the temperature in a magazine con-
taining gas generators, propelling charges, or
fixed ammunition reaches 110F or above,
certain actions must be taken to preserve safety
and stability of the explosives.
When the magazine temperature is between 110F
and 120F, the magazine should be artificially cooled,
as practical. The number of hours and the maximum
temperature reached during each hour of exposure
above 110F, but less than 120F, must be recorded.
When the cumulative total number of hours of exposure
to these temperatures reaches 500 hours, the
ammunition must be expended or turned into an
ammunition activity, stating the reason for return. If the
ammunition was subjected to these temperatures for
less than 500 hours, it should be expended during
subsequent firings.
When the magazine temperature is between 120F
and 130F, the magazine should be artificially cooled,
as practical. A special record of the number of hours of
exposure and the maximum temperature reached each
hour should be made. When a cumulative total of 100
hours of exposure above 120F is reached, prior to a
cumulative total of 500 hours of exposure between
110F and 130F, the ammunition must have priority for
expenditure or be turned in to an ammunition storage
activity at the first opportunity.
At temperatures above 130F, the ammunition
should be removed from the magazine and turned in to
the nearest ammunition activity. When there is no
storage activity immediately available and the ship is in
port, the ammunition may be retained on board in a
segregated magazine or in a ready-service room or
locker. All possible methods should be used to lower
the temperature of the ammunition until the ship is able
to turn it in to the nearest ammunition activity.
REVIEW NUMBER 4 ANSWERS
A1. For information about transporting
hazardous materials, you should refer to
NAVSEA SW020-AG-SAF-010.
A2. To transport explosives off-station, the driver
must be 21 years of age.
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