PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-708

PS, The Preventative Maintenance Monthly

ISSUE 708

NOVEMBER 2011
PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-708 - Page 23 of 33
42
PS 708
NOV 11
43
PS 708
NOV 11
Dear Half-Mast,
TM 3-4230-346-23&P (Aug 10) gives detailed instructions on using
banana oil (N-Amyl acetate) to do fit testing of the M40-series mask. But
TACOM maintenance advisory message 03-02 (Jan 03) said to stop using
banana oil. What’s the scoop?
J.S.
Dear Mr. J.S.,
Use banana oil only when you don’t have a working M41 PATS (protection
assessment test system) to test either the M40 or M42 masks. Every company or
battery should have a PATS. So if yours is being calibrated or needs repair, see if
you can borrow one from your next-door CBRN specialist. PATS ensures a mask
Fts properly.
Don’t forget your PATS needs to be calibrated every 18 months by TMDE if it’s
to stay accurate. If it’s not accurate, it can ±unk good masks. TMDE completely
disassembles a PATS, cleans it, checks out all its components and accessories,
repairs it if necessary, and then calibrates it.
If you’re not sure when your PATS was last calibrated, check its calibration
sticker. If it’s missing the sticker, your TMDE should know when it was calibrated.
T
he container for the M48A1 gas particulate Flter can cut you if you’re not careful.
The Flter, which is used in combat
vehicles and shelters, comes in a
container like an old peanut can.
When you use the container’s
opening key, it exposes you to two
very large and sharp metal edges
that can slice up your hands.
Protect your hands by wearing
cut-resistant, heavy-duty gloves
when you open the container.
Eventually the container will be
replaced by one that resembles a
small drum with a cover and locking
ring. But be careful in the meantime.
S
ome Soldiers think it’s a good idea to try to sell their personal CBRN equipment,
like the M40 mask.
That is not only a bad idea, but an
illegal
one. The Joint Equipment Assessment
Program (JEAP) monitors auction sites, trade boards and commercial websites. If
they Fnd anyone trying to sell CBRN equipment, they will begin an investigation
that can result in punishment.
CBRN equipment issued to you is still military property. You are responsible for
it. Don’t risk your career by trying to make a few bucks selling it.
Not
M40/M42-Series Masks…
PATS Preferred for Testing
CBRN Equipment
Not
for Sale
M48A1 Filter Container can CUT!
you
can
leave,
buddy.
I’m
doing
the mask
testing
here!
Wear gloves when opening M48A1 filter container
hey buddy, would
ya like to buy a
real
army mask?
this is
illegal!
anybody
caught
selling
their cbrn
equipment
can be
prosecuted.
708 42-43.indd
1-2
9/26/11
5:51 PM
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