Date of Award

3-2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

Ellen C. England, PhD

Abstract

This study examines airborne chemical exposure to Air Force small arms range instructors during M16 firing of lead and lead-free bullets. Historical range information collected from 63 active duty Air Force bases identified that two thirds of the Air Force military ranges within the Continental United States are currently firing lead-free ammunition. Average 8-hr TWA exposures for lead during M16 firing of leaded ammunition were 17% of the Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL). Task exposures, representing worst case conditions, were found to be 1.2 time the OEL. Two indoor and four outdoor firing ranges currently firing frangible lead-free ammunition were evaluated through a collaborative effort with the Air Force Institute for Operational Health (AFIOH) to assess instructor exposure and current range conditions. Transition to lead-free ammunition showed a 70% reduction in lead at indoor ranges and a 41% reduction in lead at outdoor ranges. Airborne exposures generated from metals and combustion by-products associated with nylon and plastics during M16 firing of frangible lead-free ammunition were found to be well below their respective OELs. This research suggests that the average exposure levels associated with lead-free ammunition does not pose a significant threat to Air Force instructors at indoor and outdoor ranges.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GES-ENV-06M-01

DTIC Accession Number

ADA450111

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