to lay in mud or standing water. If possible, use sandbags and other nonconductive materials such as
wood to raise cables. If needed, cables may also be buried to help speed the movement of equipment
and personnel and prevent damage or electrical shock.
(c) A soldier should NEVER be allowed to work on electrical equipment with power
applied. Soldiers should remove electrical power, disconnect the power source, if necessary, and tag out
the power source until all repairs are complete. Soldiers should also be encouraged to use the buddy
system whenever performing work on electrical equipment.
(3) Exposure to Hazardous Material or Waste. FP uses and generates hazardous material and
waste, which are dangerous to personnel. Personal protective equipment should be available for use.
(a) Fuel is a personnel hazard in the form of contact, flammability, ingestion, and
inhalation. Fuel storage areas should be clearly marked and designated as "no smoking" areas. These
markings should also be included in the languages of the host nation. Proper grounding procedures
should be used whenever transferring fuel from one item to another. Fuel storage facilities or containers
should always be properly grounded. Expended fuel presents a danger in the form of carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide gas can cause injury or death if breathed for a long time. Ensure engine exhausts are
properly vented into outside air, and that personnel are not permitted to work in unventilated areas
where carbon monoxide gas may be present.
(b) Graywater is wastewater generated from the operations of the 12-head shower and the
containerized batch laundry. Graywater contains detergents, bleaches, and other substances, which may
be hazardous to personnel. It is a personnel hazard in the form of contact and ingestion. Every effort
should be made to eliminate or reduce exposure to graywater. If soldiers must work with components
containing graywater, appropriate personnel protective equipment should be worn. If a person comes in
contact with graywater, he should thoroughly flush the exposed areas with soap and potable water.
(c) Blackwater is human waste collected in the storage tanks of the containerized latrine.
It is a personnel hazard in the form of contact, ingestion, and inhalation. Blackwater is a hazardous
waste. Soldiers who must work with items containing or contacting blackwater should wear appropriate
personal protective equipment to reduce risk. If they come in contact with blackwater, they should
thoroughly flush the exposed areas with soap and potable water. For extreme exposure, medical
attention should be sought immediately after decontamination.
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