NOTE: Supplemental instruction of the Explosives Handling Personnel Qualification and Certification Program by subordinate commands is neither required nor desired. CERTIFICATION BOARD The commanding officer or officer in charge of each organization whose duties include handling explosive devices appoints (in writing) an explosives handling personnel qualification and certification board. The following personnel are the minimum personnel included on the board: A department head, designated as the board chairman No less than one individual, E-6 or above/ civilian supervisor, who is certified to perform the function or tasks under consideration If seniority requirements cannot be met from within the command, a waiver of personal seniority for the board may be requested from the TYCOM, via the chain of command. The board chairman is not required to be certified. However, the board chairman certifies other board members. Because of the number of tasks and the num- ber of explosives devices found in some commands, board augmentation with personnel from other com- mands is authorized and, in some instances, desirable. CERTIFICATION BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES Some of the responsibilities of the certification board are discussed below. The objective of the board is to ensure that applicable personnel are certified to perform those explosive devices work tasks required for accomplishment of the command mission. The board coordinates the unit personnel cer- tification program, It ensures that administrative procedures are established to ensure the establishment and effectiveness of the program. The board observes and evaluates the proficiency of the personnel being nominated for certification and makes recommendations concerning certification nomination to the board chairman. If a person nominated for certification requires additional training and/or experience before certification can be made, that person’s division officer or supervisor is notified. The board reviews proposed formal courses of instruction and makes appropriate recommendations. The board reviews safety infractions concerning explosive devices. It makes recommendations to unit commanders concerning corrective actions. If an explosive incident or accident is caused by a person’s failure to use or to adhere to the authorized procedures, the person’s certification is revoked. IN SUCH A CASE, REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATION IS MANDATORY! If a person exhibits a flagrant disregard of safety precautions, a reckless operation of explosive devices handling equipment, or unreliability, that person’s certification must be removed The certification levels and minimum qualifications are given in OPNAVINST 8023.2. AMMUNITION STOWAGE LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Describe the types of ammunition stowage afloat. Identify the types of stowage spaces afloat to include types of magazines, magazine designations, ammunition stowage requirements, environmental control systems, sprinkler systems and auxiliary equipment, and magazine temperature requirements. Stowing ammunition aboard ship presents problems you won’t find in other types of storage facilities. When ships are undervay, they are subjected to random motion. Ammunition is fastened in place firmly and securely when it isn’t being handled. Adequate ventilation is a problem. Most ammunition stowage spaces are located below the main deck. Normally, these areas require extensive piping and venting to maintain proper temperature control and to vent hazardous fumes. Access to stowage spaces often requires specialized equipment for moving ammunition quickly and efficiently. Stowage spaces are located close to other working spaces, which presents hazards to others on the ship, especially if there were afire or explosion. AMMUNITION STOWAGE SPACES NAVSEASYSCOM develops and approves the detailed specifications for construction of Navy ships and individual ship’s blueprints. Ammunition stowage spaces (magazines) for various types and classes of ships are designated in these specification. Aircraft or aircraft carriers’ ammunition stowage magazines are also approved by NAVAIRSYSCOM. Magazines are arranged so they are close to supply, have the best available protection, and the most favorable stowage conditions. Figure 11-3 shows the 11-6