water using individual water purification procedures. For logistical purposes, the total daily issue of
drinking water per man, under field conditions, is considered to be 5 liters. Under environmental
conditions where water consumption substantially exceeds 5 liters per day, the tolerance levels should
be proportionally reduced by the commander upon medical advice. Consumption is assumed to occur at
a relatively constant rate over a 16-hour period. For areas having received fallout, no absolute standard
is recommended for short-term consumption. This is based on the consideration that if the risk of
external radiation from fallout is such as to allow the source to be used, then the water will be suitable
for drinking during the occupancy not exceeding seven days. Consumption of water being polluted with
fallout after a nuclear detonation should be avoided the first 24 hours because of the extreme change of
the nuclide composition.
Short-term consumption standards. Water constituents that meet these standards can be consumed for
up to seven consecutive days or less. The commander must accept potential soldier performance
degradation, increased incidence of disease, and reduced combat efficiency with each day the standard
remains in effect.
Long-term consumption standards. Water constituents that meet these standards can be consumed for
any length of time when water is produced by water purification units. Tables 2-3 and 2-4 are for short-
and long-term water standards.
2-3
QM4910
Previous Page
