1-12. PROTECTIVE MASK AND HOOD
Your field chemical-biological mask, when properly fitted and worn with the hood,
protects against field concentrations of all known chemical and biological agents in
vapor or aerosol form. It also provides protection against inhaling radioactive particles
(fallout). The filter elements in the cheeks of the facepiece removes chemical and
filter out carbon monoxide or ammonia vapors. The mask cannot increase the oxygen
content of air and is not used when the problem is a low concentration of oxygen, such
as rescue efforts in a cave where a fire has used up much of the available oxygen.
Figure 1-2 shows the M17A2 mask, hood, and additional authorized items issued to
every soldier. The protective masks used by tank and aircraft personnel allow for
greater vision and attach to a filter system that filters the air and also controls the
temperature of the air.
Figure 1-2. M17A2 mask and hood.
a. M17A2 Mask and Additional Items. The following information refers to the
M17A2 mask and accessories.
(1) Facepiece. The facepiece covers the wearer's face. The filter elements
protect against chemical and biological agents being inhaled or coming into contact with
the eyes. The facepiece also contains a voicemitter to facilitate communication and a
tube used in drinking water from a canteen while masked. Two outserts protect the eye
lenses and prevents fogging in low temperatures.
(2) Hood. The ABC-M6A2 hood attaches to the mask and covers the
casualty's head, neck, and shoulders from chemical agent vapor and droplets, biting
insects (biological agents), and radioactive dust particles.
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