Weapons and Range Safety

Weapons and Range Safety
NOTE: Use the following motivator, paraphrase it, or use one of your own. Ensure you impress on the students why off-duty safety is a concern and responsibility of all. Good morning / afternoon, I’m ______________________________ and I’m your instructor / facilitator for this lesson entitled Weapons and Range Safety. Why is this an important lesson? Primarily because the Army has lost combat capabilities due to safety mishaps when it comes to weapons handling and range operations. This lesson is important because firearms are inherently dangerous and we must instill the mindset that weapon have destructive capabilities and must always be handled with respect and care, and individuals must strongly be discouraged from playing with or mishandling firearms which is, by the way, a common cause of accidents. The reason that I say this is because in 2007, there were 55 Class A-C negligent discharges: 17 occurred off duty and 38 occurred on duty. Therefore, it is crucial to help ensure weapons are handled as if they are always loaded. The importance of attention to detail and the avoidance of complacency when using weapons and ammunition is critical to the lives of our Soldiers. Let’s look at the terminal learning objective Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Terminal Learning Objective
Weapons and Range Safety Terminal Learning Objective Action: Recommend safety control measures for weapons handling in garrison and tactical environments. Conditions: Given scenarios involving weapon mishaps. Standards: A minimum of two feasible and plausible recommendations based on the Composite Risk Management process must be provided. NOTE: Explain Terminal Learning Objective (TLO) to the students. Tell them they will be asked for recommendations and they will need to be prepared to discuss the recommendations in relationship to the Composite Risk Management (CRM) process. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

References AR , The Army Safety Program, 23 August 2007 AR , Range Safety, 19 June 2003 AR , The Army Sustainable Range Program, 30 August 2005 DA Pam , Range Safety, 10 April 2003 FM , Rifle Marksmanship M16A1, M16A2/3, M16A4, and M4 Carbine, April 2003 FM 5-19, Composite Risk Management, August 2006 The references are available via internet at: Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Lesson Data Classroom Safety Requirements: None Lesson Risk Assessment Level: Low Environmental Considerations: None Evaluation: You will be evaluated on your participation during class and your responses based on given scenarios There are no identified hazards with this classroom instruction so the risk level is LOW. There are no environmental considerations; however, remind everyone that is the responsibility of all Soldiers and DA civilians to protect the environment. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Overview Weapons handling (avoiding negligent discharges) Range safety During this lesson, we will discuss two enabling learning objectives (ELOs) and will address hazards and risks associated with each topic and then discuss control measures to prevent mishaps. Let’s begin with the first ELO Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Enabling Learning Objective A
Weapons and Range Safety Enabling Learning Objective A Action: Recommend safety control measures for preventing the negligent discharge of weapons. Conditions: Given scenarios involving negligent discharge mishaps. Standards: A minimum of two feasible and plausible recommendations based on the Composite Risk Management process must be provided. NOTE: Explain Enabling Learning Objective (ELO) to the students. Tell them they will be asked for recommendations and they will need to be prepared to discuss the recommendations in relationship to preventing the negligent discharge of weapons and the Composite Risk Management (CRM) process. Let’s begin by defining Negligent Discharge Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

What is Negligent Discharge?
Weapons and Range Safety What is Negligent Discharge? Negligent Discharge The discharging of a weapon without intending to discharge the weapon. Ask students to define negligent discharge. Show slide and explain that the US Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center defines negligent discharge as the discharging of a weapon without intending to discharge the weapon. ASK: Why should we be concerned with negligent discharges? USACRC Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Negligent Discharge Why be Concerned?
Weapons and Range Safety Negligent Discharge Why be Concerned? Accidental shootings cause Waste Damage Injuries Death! Note: Have students name and discuss hazards. Summarize their discussions and add the following if not already discussed. Accidental shootings cause (least serious to most serious) Waste (ammunition) Damage (property) Injuries and worse case scenario Death, for example (go to next slide) Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

One Example of Negligent Discharge
Weapons and Range Safety One Example of Negligent Discharge Kandahar, Afghanistan 17 Jan 2004 a Soldier was shot and killed in his tent because another Soldier didn’t clear his weapon when his team returned from a mission. This picture shows where the Soldier was killed – he was facing the open area (left as you are looking at the picture) and fell to his right after bullet impact. Carelessness leading to the loss of life of a Soldier sitting in his tent Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Disturbing Data From FY 2000 to FY 2007 there were 274 Class A-C negligent discharge accidents reported 41 of those accidents resulted in the loss of a Soldier’s life 10 Includes updates effective 1 June 2008 10

What are Contributing Factors?
Weapons and Range Safety What are Contributing Factors? WHY? Have students name what they believe are contributing factors. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Negligent Discharge Contributing Factors
Weapons and Range Safety Negligent Discharge Contributing Factors Individual errors Ineffective supervision Situational circumstances Let’s talk about each in more detail beginning with common errors made by the individual. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Individual Errors Failure to follow procedures (lack of self-discipline or adherence to standard) Complacency / over-confidence Inattentiveness / lack of muzzle awareness Insufficient training Mishaps can be the results of both individual and leadership failures let’s discuss some individual errors. NOTE: Ask students to state what they have seen as individual errors. Individual errors include: -- Failure to follow procedures -- Lack of self-discipline, self-control and/or adherence to standard -- Personnel using weapons for horseplay -- Complacency (self-satisfied, over-confident, and unaware of possible dangers.) -- Inattentiveness / lack of muzzle awareness -- Lack of training At times, personnel use weapons that they are not qualified to use All soldiers must be trained to a PROFESSIONAL level with their assigned weapon. Being familiar with a weapon, instead of being proficient, is not good enough for safe handling. Safe weapons handling, clearing, disassembly/reassembly, cleaning, functions checks / immediate action drills MUST BE second nature to all personnel to prevent negligent discharges Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Individual Errors Continued Taking shortcuts and trading safety and standards for speed and execution Negligence / carelessness / irresponsibility Improper or inadequate clearing NOTE: Allow students to provide examples they are aware of. Other than individual errors, ineffective supervision also contributes to negligent discharges, for example Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Ineffective Supervision
Failure to enforce standards Inadequate weapons training Failure to be involved with and oversee Soldiers’ activities Recommending shortcuts and trading safety and standards for speed and execution NOTE: Ask what constitutes ineffective supervision

Situational Circumstances
Many negligent discharges occur in fixed structures (tents/buildings) Service members cleaning or doing functions checks Potential for negligent discharge while conducting operations is high, especially during movement Let’s look and the next scenarios and discuss what factors may have contributed to these fatal negligent discharges.

Scenario 1 OEF/OIF While cleaning personal weapons Service Member (SM) 1 failed to maintain muzzle awareness and conducted a 9MM function check using magazine with live rounds. Consequently, the slide of the 9MM went forward discharging a round, which went through the SM 1's left hand, and then struck SM 2 sitting on the floor in the lower left back. Ask students to read aloud this scenario and the continuation on next slide – this will help set the stage for a discussion regarding improper clearing procedures. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Scenario 1 OEF/OIF Continued SM 1 received a minor wound SM 2 received a critical injury and later died of his wound Discuss this scenario and ask what factors may have contributed to the mishap and what actions could be taken to correct and/or prevent future mishaps. RMIS Case Number Task Error: While cleaning personal weapons Service Member (SM) 1 failed to maintain muzzle awareness and conducted a 9MM function check using magazine with live rounds. Functional check was not conducted properly and in accordance with TM Consequently, the slide of the 9MM (selector in fire position) went forward discharging a round, which went through the SM 1's left hand, and then struck SM 2 sitting on the floor in the lower left back. SM 1 received a minor wound, while SM 2 received a critical injury and later died of his wound. Why Mistake Made: SM 1's actions were result of improper weapon handing and completing the given task in a hurry. SM failed to properly perform the functional checks for the 9MM properly, which resulted in an accidental discharge of his personnel weapon. A contributing factor to this accident was the leadership inability to maintain standards and enforce standards. Sequence of Events: SMs were participating in the unit activity of cleaning personal weapons. Unit personnel were inspecting and cleaning personal weapons prior to participating on a night combat patrol. SM 2 and SM 1 were cleaning their weapons in their second floor room, within the Company. SM 2 was sitting on the floor five feet in front of SM 1. SM 1 had disassembled his 9MM, reassembled it, placed a magazine with live rounds in the weapon and continued to perform a function check. The selector of the 9MM was placed in the fire position. As SM 1 performed a function check with a magazine of live rounds, the 9MM's slide came forward discharging the weapon. The 9MM bullet grazed SM 1's palm and then hit SM 2 in the left side of the back just below the rib cage. The round did not leave an exit wound. The round completely transacted both sides of his descending aorta just below the ribcage. Medical attention was immediately rendered. At 1915hrs, requested medevac to pickup both soldiers. SM 2 had faint vital signs while being loaded into the helicopter but was unresponsive due to massive internal blood loss upon arrival for surgery. There was nothing that could have been done prior to arriving at this level of care to stop the bleeding due to the large wound made and the location of the wound. Upon resuscitation attempts, it was found that his abdomen was full of blood and the full extent of his injuries was discovered. This type of wound has an extremely low chance of survival. SM 2 died of wounds. Corrective Action: Conduct safety classes on the proper procedures for conducting functional checks on various type of weapon used by the unit. Weapon status for the Company Compound was changed from red to green status meaning all weapons would be cleared with no magazines in weapon upon entering the facility except for those individuals guarding the facility. Additionally, leaders must be retrained in the standards of weapon status and enforcement. NOTE: After discussion, tell participants that this case occurred in 2003 and the next scenario (#2) provided on the following slide occurred in 2007. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Scenario 2 OEF/OIF While riding in the vehicle, Soldier placed the weapon across his lap with the muzzle pointing towards the door instead of between his legs with the muzzle pointed toward the floor. He prepared to exit the vehicle and weapon discharged resulting in injury to his arm and leg. Discuss this scenario and ask what factors may have contributed to the mishap and what actions could be taken to correct and/or prevent future mishaps. Compare to previous scenario. RMIS Case Number Task Error: While riding in the vehicle, Soldier placed the weapon across his lap with the muzzle pointing towards the door instead of between his legs with the muzzle pointed toward the floor. This possibly allowed a piece of the Soldier's protective gear to deactivate the safety on the weapon, thus allowing it to fire. Why Mistake Made: Soldier knew that the patrol was going to be only a short distance and that he would have to dismount quickly upon arriving at the UXO site. Thus, Soldier placed the weapon across his lap to help exit the vehicle quicker. This action led to the malfunction of the safety causing the weapon to fire. Sequence of Events: Platoon notified to escort EOD to a UXO site in the northern part of AO. Conducted patrol brief explaining the mission and covering all roll-over escalation of force, 9-line MEDEVAC, react to IED, react to indirect fire, and procedures for going "Red Direct." Red Direct involves loading weapons, ensuring weapons are on safe, and placing weapons between the Soldiers, leg muzzle down. Upon completion of patrol brief platoon departed COP, stopping outside the gate for all vehicles to put weapons on Red Direct. Once all vehicles call up Red Direct, platoon continued with the mission, traveling the most direct route to the UXO site. Route taken was: Pluto North to Route Crush then east across Route Corona which is an uneven road. Once through ECP7 (an IA CP) the platoon made visual contact with platoon that found the UXO, and began slowing down to conduct link-up. As vehicles were coming to a stop the truck with the injured Soldier called the patrol leader, reporting a negligent discharge had just occurred. The TC of the truck immediately checked the status of his Soldiers as the medic began moving to the truck to evaluate the Soldier who had shrapnel in his left arm, cheek, and leg. While the medic was working on the Soldier, the squad leader cleared his weapon. Once medic was ready to move the Soldier, the trucks remounted and returned to COP War Eagle. Corrective Action: Weapon safety training conducted within 24 hours of incident. Detailed weapon safety added to convoy brief prior to missions. Spot checks conducted during missions by PL and PSG. Soldier received a battalion letter of reprimand. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

What are measures for controlling / preventing negligent discharges? NOTE: CRM is a prerequisite to this training – use the following slide to review the process. Let’s begin with the Composite Risk Management (CRM) Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Composite Risk Management 5-Step Process
Weapons and Range Safety Composite Risk Management 5-Step Process Identify Hazards 1 Supervise & Evaluate 5 Implement Controls 4 Develop & Make Decisions 3 Assess Hazards 2 Composite Risk Management 5-Step Process Identify hazards Assess hazards Develop Controls and Make Risk Decisions Implement Controls Supervise and Evaluate With CRM in mind, let’s focus on controls that need to be developed and/or implemented to help prevent negligent discharge of weapons. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Preventing Negligent Discharges
Weapons and Range Safety Preventing Negligent Discharges Everyone has the responsibility for safety Individuals Supervisors (all levels) Leaders (formal and informal) It’s the responsibility of the individual to learn and do the right thing. All levels of supervision are responsible for ensuring safety standards are in place and adhered to. Formal leaders are those appointed to leadership roles and informal leaders are those that everyone looks up to – both can influence safe behaviors through enforcement and examples. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Leaders and Supervisors “Must”
Weapons and Range Safety Leaders and Supervisors “Must” Apply Composite Risk Management (CRM) process to all situations Be trained on all weapons within the unit Be involved and engaged in the oversight of safety Ensure weapons discipline is maintained Refrain from trading safety for shortcuts Control measures for leaders and supervisors to implement are to ensure they are: Trained in the CRM process Trained on all weapons within the unit Involved and engaged in the oversight of safety (very important) -Identify and control risks and/or risky behaviors -Set the example for safe handling of weapons Ensure weapons discipline is maintained Refrain from trading safety for shortcuts Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Weapons and Range Safety Leaders and Supervisors “Must” Continued Ensure controls are in place and understood in order to mitigate hazards Train Soldiers to recognize weapon status Rules of engagement Local SOP Leaders and supervisors must: Ensure Soldiers understand and apply current weapon status and rules of engagement as directed by SOP. - For example, weapon status may be 1 Red – round in chamber and weapon on safe 2 Amber – magazine in weapon or rounds in feed tray, but no rounds chambered; weapons on safe 3 Green – weapons cleared and on safe 24 Includes updates effective 1 June 2008 24

Continued Do spot checks for Soldier compliance with standards Ask questions and have Soldiers “back brief” Ensure weapon preventive maintenance, checks and services (PMCS) are conducted at least monthly

Additional Control Measures: Education and Training
Weapons and Range Safety Additional Control Measures: Education and Training Ensure Soldiers are qualified and proficient with weapons Range qualification focuses on target engagement Proficiency includes all tasks associated with target engagement Education and Training as control measures NOTE: Stress the importance of making time for training before too late – set time aside Range qualification doesn’t necessarily indicate weapons proficiency Units must conduct weapon classes for familiarization and proper clearing procedures Conduct periodic re-enforcement training Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Weapons and Range Safety Additional Control Measures: Education and Training Continued Conduct weapon classes Preliminary Marksmanship Instructions (PMI) Proper clearing procedures Conduct periodic re-enforcement training Cross train Soldiers, make sure they become proficient with all unit's weapons Education and Training as control measures Preliminary Marksmanship Instructions (PMI) When cross-training Soldiers, make sure they become proficient with all unit's weapons – circumstances might require a rifleman to become a machine gunner in a hurry Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Weapons and Range Safety Additional Control Measures: Education and Training Continued For proficiency train: Clearing procedures Loading / unloading procedures Immediate action Remedial action Education and Training as control measures Not only must Soldiers effectively engage targets, they must also perform other associated tasks including: -Clearing procedures (NOTE: one reason negligent discharges occur is the failure to remove the magazine from the weapon) -Loading and unloading procedure -Immediate action (such as *SPORTS for M16 and M4) -Remedial action -Disassembly and reassembly -Preventative maintenance checks and services -Functions check -Weapons maintenance * SPORTS is the acronym for: Slap magazine; Pull charging handle; Observe chamber; Release charging handle; Tap forward assist; Squeeze trigger Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Weapons and Range Safety Additional Control Measures: Education and Training Continued For proficiency train: PMCS Disassembly / reassembly Functions check Weapons maintenance Education and Training as control measures Preventative maintenance checks and services (PMCS). PMCS must be conducted at least monthly and more frequently as required by specific weapon Technical Manual (TM). Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Additional Control Measures: Publications and Notifications
Weapons and Range Safety Additional Control Measures: Publications and Notifications Issue Theater level guidance Establish and enforce weapons clearing Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) Issue Theater level guidance that reduces the requirement to be continually going from red to green Establish and enforce weapons clearing Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Other Control Measures
Weapons and Range Safety Other Control Measures Provide weapons clearing barrels / portable containers Have trained leadership/supervision at clearing points and during weapons maintenance Conduct weapons and ammunition checks Discuss and apply lessons learned Portable weapons clearing containers should be procured in order to provide clearing barrels upon arrival to new locations Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Clearing Barrel Supervision Control Measures Effective Control Measures State that the best way for an individual to prevent negligent discharges is to T.H.I.N.K. then show next slide "Bullet Stop" Portable Clearing Barrel On-the-Spot Corrections Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Avoid Negligent Discharge T.H.I.N.K
Weapons and Range Safety Avoid Negligent Discharge T.H.I.N.K Treat every weapon as if it’s loaded Handle every weapon with care Identify the target before you fire Never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to shoot Keep the weapon on safe and your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire Explain the acronym T.H.I.N.K. Have students discuss what it means to them. Treat every weapon as if it’s loaded. Handle every weapon with care. Identify the target before you fire. Never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Keep the weapon on safe and your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire. Let’s do a check on learning before discussing Range Safety Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Check on Learning Name two control measures that supervisors and leaders should implement to help ensure safe weapon handling. After returning from a mission, you notice a Soldier’s weapon has not be cleared – what should you do? For both questions, answers from students should involve aspects of: CRM process Supervisor/leader engagement Education/training Other control measures that are plausible and feasible NOTE: Transition to Range Safety slide Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

AR , Range Safety DA Pam , Range Safety AR , The Army Sustainable Range Program NOTE: The majority of the information is taken from DA Pam , Range Safety, 10 April 2003 AR chapter 4-3, gives guidelines for range operations at the installation level Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Enabling Learning Objective B
Weapons and Range Safety Enabling Learning Objective B Action: Identify control measures for safe range operations. Conditions: Given scenarios involving range mishaps. Standards: A minimum of two feasible and plausible recommendations based on the Composite Risk Management process must be identified. NOTE: Explain Enabling Learning Objective (ELO) to the students. Tell them they will be asked for recommendations and they will need to be prepared to discuss the recommendations in relationship to ensuring safe range operations. NOTE: Throughout the lesson, ensure students know it is critical that they are knowledgeable of the Unit’s SOP, to help ensure maximum safety prior to, during, and after range operations. Let’s begin by discussing the first step of range safety – that is certification Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Range Safety Certification Program
Weapons and Range Safety Range Safety Certification Program Must be established for firing exercises and maneuver operations Normally implemented at battalion or equivalent level Will be integrated into organizational training NOTE: Refer to DA Pam PG 7 for all requirements DA Pam PG 7 Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Weapons and Range Safety Range Safety Certification Program Continued Used to train and qualify personnel in the duties for firing exercises and maneuver operations Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Range Safety Officer (RSO) Range safety certification programs are used to train and qualify personnel in the duties of OIC and RSO. This is accomplished at Battalion level. Once satisfied through training and testing that individuals are qualified to perform the duties of OIC and RSO of the firing unit, battalion commanders (U.S. Army) will certify, in writing, these individuals to range control. Range control will then certify these individuals on the operation of equipment on the range. NOTE: Refer to DA Pam PG 7 for all requirements DA Pam PG 7 Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Weapons and Range Safety Range Safety Certification Program Continued Battalion Commanders must ensure OIC and RSO Are certified in writing Meet the appointment grade requirements IAW DA Pam , Range Safety Are competent and properly instructed in the performance of their duties Once satisfied through training and testing that individuals are qualified to perform the duties of OIC and RSO of the firing unit, battalion commanders (U.S. Army) will certify, in writing, these individuals to range control The installation commander may reduce the OIC and RSO grade requirements in table 1–1 by not more than one Grade. However, OIC of battalion or larger combined arms live-fire exercises (CALFEX) will be a field grade officer. DA Pam PG 7 PAR 1-7 G Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Range Officer-in-Charge (OIC)
Weapons and Range Safety Range Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Must receive range safety briefing Provided by installation range control organization On the use of the training complex as part of certification NOTE: Refer DA Pam , Range Safety, 10 Apr 2003, page 5, for complete qualifications and duties. Personnel designated as OIC and RSO must receive a range safety briefing from the installation range control organization on the use of the training complex as part of certification Qualifications. Commissioned, warrant, or noncommissioned officer (NCO, U.S. Army). OICs will be certified in the weapon systems for which they are responsible. The OIC must have satisfactorily completed a range safety certification program. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Range Officer-in-Charge (OIC)
Weapons and Range Safety Range Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Continued Responsible for the overall operation of the range before, during, and after live firing Ensures the overall safe conduct of training and proper use of the installation training complex OICs will be certified in the weapon systems for which they are responsible NOTE: The following extract is from DA Pam , Range Safety, 10 Apr 2003, page 5. Officer in Charge (OIC): Responsible for the overall operation of the range before, during, and after live firing. Duties (a) Ensures the overall safe conduct of training and proper use of the installation training complex. (b) Receives a range safety briefing from installation range control organization on use of the training complex. (c) Ensures the RSO is physically present at the training site. (d) Determines when it is safe to fire in accordance with applicable regulations and installation range requirements. (e) Ensures receipt of final clearance to fire from range control. (f) Ensures proper supervision of personnel performing misfire, hang-fire, and cook-off procedures. (g) Ensures required communications are established and maintained. (h) Ensures safe laser operations. (i) Ensures adequate medical support is available. (j) Ensures ammunition and explosives are properly handled, transported, stored, and accounted for within the training complex from the time of receipt to the time of expenditure or turn in. (k) Ensures a written log is maintained of pertinent safety and control data concerning the operation of firing ranges, weapons training facilities, and maneuver areas, authorized operating times, impact areas entries and exits, and cease fire authorizations. (l) Ensures plans for firing exercises and maneuvers are coordinated with range control. (m) Ensures control of target areas to prohibit entry by unauthorized personnel. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Range Safety Officer (RSO)
Weapons and Range Safety Range Safety Officer (RSO) Responsible for the safe operation of the range Will be qualified on all weapon systems utilized on the range Required to conduct a safety orientation before each scheduled live-fire exercise Ensures that all personnel comply with the safety regulations and procedures Range Safety Officer (RSO): DA PAM pages 4-5 will give you the RSO qualification and duties Responsible for the safe operation of the range and he will conduct a safety orientation before each scheduled live-fire exercise. Ensures that all personnel comply with the safety regulations and procedures prescribed for the conduct of a live-fire exercise. Ensures that a brass and ammunition check is made before the unit leaves the range. Before beginning a live-fire exercise, all personnel must receive an orientation on range operations. The orientation should outline the procedures for conducting the exercise to include the duties of the non-firing orders. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Range Safety Officer (RSO)
Weapons and Range Safety Range Safety Officer (RSO) Continued Ensures that a brass and ammunition check is made before the unit leaves the range Ensures that all weapons are clear and safe before firers leave the firing line The RSO WILL NOT be assigned any other duties Range Safety Officer (RSO): DA PAM pages 4-5 will give you the RSO qualification and duties Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Assistant RSO / Lane Safety/Coach
Weapons and Range Safety Assistant RSO / Lane Safety/Coach Is assigned to EACH LANE to observe and evaluate the Soldier's performance Ensures: Soldiers are acquiring the proper target Muzzle awareness is maintained Weapon remains on safe until time to engage the target The assistant RSOs will perform duties as the Lane Safety/Coach and one will be assigned to EACH LANE to observe and evaluate the Soldier's performance as well as ensure the safe conduct of firing. FM PG 7-46 PAR 7-26 b Each Lane Safety/Coach will ensure: Soldiers are acquiring the proper target. Weapon remains on safe until time to engage the target and is then placed back on safe. Muzzle awareness is maintained throughout the exercise. FM PG 7-46 par 7-27 Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

NCOIC Assists the OIC and RSO as required For example, supervising personnel who are supporting the live-fire exercise, such as the target detail and target operators The NCOIC will assist the OIC and RSO as required; example - supervises enlisted personnel who are supporting the live-fire exercise such as the target detail and target operators Appendix D PG D-2, (d) Fm Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Unit Armorer The unit armorer repairs the weapons to include replacing parts, as required Note: If your unit armorer is unavailable you can get assistance from your Direct Support maintenance unit. Appendix D PG D-2, (d) Fm Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Ammunition Detail Responsible and accountable for all ammunition Breaking down ammunition Issuing correct number of magazines, belts, etc. and correct ammunition Receiving and accounting for all ammunition This detail is composed of one NCO and one or more ammunition handlers. Ammunition personnel are responsible for Breaking down ammunition Issuing correct number of magazines, belts, etc. and correct ammunition Receiving and accounting for all ammunition The detail also collects expended ammunition casings and other residue Appendix D PG D-2, (d) Fm Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Control Tower Operators
Weapons and Range Safety Control Tower Operators Raise and lower targets Time the exposure Sound audible signal Give fire commands Control Tower Operators responsibilities include: Raising and lowering targets Timing the exposure (duration of time each target is exposed to the firing order) Sounding the audible signal Giving fire commands FM Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Medical Personnel Perform first aid on all injuries that may occur during range operations OIC must ensure adequate medical support is available Medical personnel will be present on all ranges A medical vehicle will be on standby for evacuations at all times References: DA Pam , paragraph 1-6 states that the Range OIC must ensure adequate medical support is available. AR Paragraphs 1-4.r.(3)(h) require the Commanders, who are responsible for live-fire training ranges, to establish a range safety program and include active and coordinated involvement of trained and qualified range control and installation safety professionals who establish medical support SOP for all range operations. NOTE: Emphasize that it is critical to check with local Range Control for specifics. -Local Range Standing Operating Procedures (SOP) may make medical personnel mandatory for range support. -Medical personnel can be a certified combat life saver, but it will depend on the Range Control SOP

Communication Officer-in-Charge Establishes a primary and secondary means of communication Radio /Telephone Operator Monitors all radio communications with Range Control Notifies the OIC of radio transmissions pertaining to his/her operation A vehicle with required communication and someone to monitor the radios is to be provided. This allows the OIC and RSO to be on line monitoring the operation of the range. Radio /Telephone Operator monitors all radio communications with Range Control and they are also responsible for notifying the OIC of radio transmissions pertaining to his/her operation. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

M16/M4 Range Uniform Requirements
Weapons and Range Safety M16/M4 Range Uniform Requirements Kevlar / Helmet Load Bearing Equipment (LBE) or Load Bearing Vest (LBV) Interceptor body armor with all Small Arms Protective Insert (SAPI) plates Hearing protection Eye protection FM Change 4 dated 13 SEP 2006 states that * b. Conduct of a Practice Record Fire Range. The uniform for practice record fire is helmet, LBE/LBV, and Interceptor body armor with all SAPI plates. * b. Conduct of Record Fire Range. The uniform for qualification is helmet, LBE/LBV, and interceptor body armor with all SAPI plates. DA PAM 385–63, pg. 4, chapter 1, pg. 4, gives the regulatory requirements for following FM f. The unit commander— (1) Ensures compliance with this pamphlet, applicable technical manuals (TMs), field manuals (FMs), and Fleet Marine Force Manuals (FMFMs) (Marine Corps), installation range guidance, and applicable SOPs for safe training and firing for each weapon system within the command. (2) Ensures all personnel within the command are briefed on and comply with installation range procedures and Safety requirements including required personal protective equipment. B denotes change in the FM. NOTE: Range Uniform and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements are dependent on the range and type of weapon or weapon systems being fired. Verify requirements with the appropriate publications to include the local Range Control , and unit SOP Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Check on Learning QUESTION: Name control measures that should be in place to help prevent death or injury to our Soldiers that result from negligent discharge. ANSWER: (Note: List and discuss plausible and feasible control measures that should/are implemented at your organization.) Answer may include: Supervision must ensure safety standards are in place and adhered to. Formal and informal leaders can influence safe behaviors through enforcement and examples. Control measures for leaders and supervisors to implement are to ensure they are: Trained in the CRM process Trained on all weapons within the unit Involved and engaged in the oversight of safety (very important) Leaders and supervisors must: -Identify and control risks and/or risky behaviors -Set the example for safe handling of weapons -Ensure Soldiers understand and apply current weapon status as directed -Ensure weapons discipline is maintained -Refrain from trading safety for shortcuts Soldiers must obey the weapons status at all time. Weapons status must be understood by all Soldiers. Thorough risk assessments must be developed for daily operations that have hazards/injury risk associated with them. Controls must be in place and understood in order to mitigate the hazard. Provide appropriate education and training

Check on Learning QUESTION: What control measures should be emplaced to ensure safe Range Operations? QUESTION: What control measures should be emplaced to ensure safe Range Operations? Note: Ask several students to put the answers in their own words and generate additional comments/questions as time permits. Answers should include any of the following: Comply with and ensure compliance with applicable regulations: AR , The Army Safety Program, 23 Aug 2007; AR , Range Safety, 19 June 2003; DA Pam , Range Safety, 10 April 2003; RM , Rifle Marksmanship M16A1, M16A2/3, M16A4, and M4 Carbine, April 2003; FM 5-19, Composite Risk Management, August 2006. Ensure Range OIC and RSO are qualified in all aspect of their required duties. Includes updates effective 1 June 2008

Summary Weapons handling (avoiding negligent discharges) Range safety

Help save lives of our Soldiers!
In Conclusion Treat every weapon as if it’s loaded Handle every weapon with care Identify the target before you fire Never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to shoot Keep the weapon on safe and your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire Remember! Help save lives of our Soldiers!

Weapons and Range Safety

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