scope:

a. This instruction applies to all U.S. Navy personnel, identified in enclosure (1), whether ashore and afloat, who are directly involved in AE handling evolutions. This includes personnel who physically interact with AE as well as Personnel Performing Supervisor, Quality Assurance (QA), or Safety Observer (SO) functions. Exceptions to this requirement are addressed in subparagraphs 6b and 6c below. The requirement to have a QUAL/CERT program applies, regardless of location, to work being performed by military, Department of Defense civilian, and contractor personnel working under the provisions of a government contract.

b. Reference (d) governs the explosives handling QUAL/CERT Program for the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC). As such, this instruction does not apply to USMC activities/commands (whole or detachments) operating on U.S. Navy installations or when embarked aboard Navy vessels. However, this instruction does apply to those individual Marines assigned to augment U.S. Navy activities/commands.

c. Activities listed in appendix G of reference (b) with a primary mission of research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of energetic materials may use reference (e) in lieu of this instruction, providing the activity's QUAL/CERT program is supported by a local implementing instruction.

d. Non-naval units embarked aboard Navy vessels must adhere to the guidance provided in references (c) and (f) for ensuring personnel are qualified and certified prior to conducting any operations involving AE.

e. Reference (g) provides guidance and criteria for qualifying and certifying personnel who perform Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) specific functions at Strategic Weapons Facilities (SWF). SWF security personnel will comply with the guidance contained within this instruction or reference (d).

f. The term "Commanding Officer", as used throughout this instruction, is synonymous with Commanders; COs;, Directors; Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion, and Repair (SUPSHIP); and Officers-In-Charge (OICs) of a command/activity.

Purpose. To provide Navy policy and promulgate the responsibilities and procedures for developing, implementing, and maintaining a qualification and certification (QUAL/CERT) program, in accordance with references (a), (b) and (c). This instruction is a complete revision and must be reviewed in its entirety.