HAZARDS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION TO ORDINANCE

This section briefly discusses the primary adverse affects of electromagnetic radiation on material and personnel and the programs designed to minimize those effects. HAZARDS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION TO ORDNANCE During on-loading or off-loading of ammunition, there is a danger that RF electromagnetic fields could accidentally activate electro-explosive devices (EEDs) or electrically initiated ordnance. This is a very real hazard to the ordnance, the ship, and the crew. The Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance (HERO) Program was developed to control these types of situations. When HERO is set, it usually requires that radars be secured. When you are in port and must conduct any radar maintenance requiring rotating the antenna or radiating, always coordinate your actions with your base operations department via the command duty officer (CDO). HERO conditions anywhere in the area could be affected by your radar. Even if you just want to radiate a short period for an operational test, check with the officer of the day (OOD) or the CDO first. Table 3-1 (an example of tables found in NAV- SEA OP 3565, volume II, part 1) identifies ordnance hazards associated with common electronic equip- ment. Table 3-1.—Exposure to Main Beam Radiation of Shipboard and Shore Station Equipment 3-2