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-~    masks that were identified as needing replacement.                                      However,
      sufficient tariff sizes and quantities were not readily available
      to a 1 low for'   r ( 1 ij rici r' (~(j j)C r' (1 (` I)  r' ~`I~ 1 ;~~ (? ~(` I  ( ) f Tfl.~L('. 10 i n e f a i lures
      Additionally, numerous requests from units were made to this
      facility to "exchange" sizes       (i.e.                   exchange what the unit felt
      was excess X-Small masks for Medium M17A2 Field Protective Masks,
      etc.).   These requests were denied by the Test and Evaluation
      Unit, West as instructed by the Storage and Distribution
      Directorate.

          a.   Personnel Shortages.      Although this unit did not have the
      manpower to support a twenty-four hour operations                                     (three shifts)
      as recommended in MCO 3§§O.5,      this unit was able to operate
      twenty-four hours with two shifts.                          Each shift was extended to
      twelve hours vice the recommended eight hours.                                       It is to be noted
      that although the high quality of work was maintained for the
      entire twelve hours,      the production slowed after the first eight
      hours due to fatigue of the operators.                          During one period,             the
      Test and Evaluation Unit, West had to be augmented by members of
      the Test and Evaluation Unit, East in order to accomplish the
      massive testing requirement in a timely manner.                                      Additionally,
      the fixed site was not operational for periods of great length
      due to shortages in personnel.

          d.   Unsupported Units.     Units located in Hawaii and outside                                       (
      of CONUS could not be tested prior to deploying due to the
      expense involved in shipping the Mobile facility to these
      locations.      It is to be noted that these units were issued new
      masks prior to deployment or shortly thereafter.

      RECOMMENDATIONS.       The following recommendations are provided:

          a.   Reserve Units.      It is recommended that a testing
      evolution be implemented for all reserve units.                                      This evolution
      should insure that all Reserve Unit assets are tested at least
      once every two years.

          b.   Tariff Sizing.      The tariff sizing for the Marine Corps
      should be reviewed by Headquarters Marine Corps.                                      Additionally,
      the Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defense Specialists need to
      be provided an "on hands" training program in the proper
      procedures of sizing an individual Marine for a Field Protective
      Mask.

          c.   Personnel Shortages.                         It is recommended that either the
      T/O for the Test and Evaluation Units be increased to allow for a
      twenty-four hour capability      (three shifts)                                to support high
      density or prolonged operations, or a larger PWR stock be
      maintained to allow for a more complete swap out of assets thus
      providing more time for testing.                           Furthermore,              it is strongly       (¼

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