scope:

Purpose. This manual contains procedural guidance for the Air Force NBC mask quantitative fit training (QNFT) program, mask confidence training (MCT), and liquid hazard simulant (LHS) training.

Air Force NBC Mask QNFT Program. The purpose of the Air Force NBC mask QNFT program is to enhance NBC defense survivability by helping personnel maximize their NBC mask protection and instill mask confidence.

Mask Confidence Training. The purpose of MCT is to check the fit and operation of the mask and instill mask confidence.

MCT is a pass/fail test that relies on the ability of the wearer to sense a test agent.

The Air Force Surgeon General's Office approved the use of o-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS) and chloroacetophenone (CN), isoamyl acetate (banana oil), stannic chloride, or camphor crystals for MCT. CS is the preferred agent; use CN when CS is not available. Note: The Office of the Surgeon General strongly rejects any MCT procedures involving the use of CS or CN "which require personnel to enter a tear agent training facility unprotected, remain so until instructed to mask, and then stay in place until the student clears the mask of agent."

Conduct MCT using CS or CN for initial NBC defense training. If using CS or CN is not feasible, use the other agents listed in paragraph 1.1.2.2. for initial training. Stannic chloride, isoamyl acetate, or camphor are the preferred protocols for refresher training.

Liquid Hazard Simulant (LHS) Training. The purpose of LHS training is to check the student's ability to process through a contamination control area (CCA) without transferring contamination to the skin.