Inspection of Outdoor Storage Areas
A formal inspection of each outdoor storage site containing ammunition is made quarterly. This inspection
consists of a general exterior inspection of the ammunition items and packages for evidence of deterioration,
damage, and any conditions indicating the possibility of future deterioration. If the exterior inspection reveals any
evidence of deterioration or nonstandard conditions, additional detailed inspections are made as necessary to
determine the condition of all of the affected ammunition. Each outside site is inspected immediately following
any unusual weather condition (such as severe rain, snow, or wind storms) that might damage or affect the
ammunition. DA policy requires that the outdoor storage of ammunition and explosives be held to an absolute
minimum.
Ammunition in outdoor storage is subjected to a complete PI at least semiannually. The primary emphasis of this
PI is to detect any evidence of deterioration or hazardous conditions that may affect the continued serviceability
or storage safety of the ammunition.
Inspection of Transport Vehicles and Vessels
Transport vehicles and vessels (motor vehicles, railcars, barges, ships, and aircraft) and transport containers used
to transport ammunition and explosives are inspected inside and outside before loading to ensure their
serviceability. Loading is performed according to the specific requirements for the transport mode and the type or
types of ammunition and explosives involved. An authorized carrier's representative certifies the proper condition
of railcars used to transport Class A explosives.
Transport vehicles carrying ammunition and explosives are inspected inside and outside before unloading
operations are started. This inspection is performed to uncover any evidence of tampering or sabotage, missing
cargo, and hazardous conditions resulting from damage in transit. The condition of the lading is observed upon
receipt and during unloading operations to detect damaged cargo and to determine if improper blocking, bracing,
or staying methods were employed.
Monitoring Major Training Area Operations
QASAS personnel assigned to live-firing training areas are responsible for providing technical assistance and
support on ammunition quality and explosive safety matters to locally assigned personnel and to troops training at
the facility. This includes, but is not limited to, providing range support during training exercises and
investigating and reporting malfunctions involving ammunition.
During visits to firing ranges, the QASAS observes firing and, if possible, consults with troops to determine if any
problems were encountered with the ammunition. Problems that are brought to the attention of the QASAS are
investigated and reported through command channels to the appropriate commodity command.
AMMUNITION SURVEILLANCE RECORDS
The technical history of each lot, SN, or group is maintained by the surveillance organization. It includes the
results of each inspection, test, and investigation, as well as any unusual or changing conditions affecting the
ammunition. The technical history is an important record used in evaluating the serviceability and reliability of
ammunition items. It is therefore important that all data recorded for inspections, tests, and investigations be
accurate and concise. The information included in the technical history is determined by the information
requirements of the supply, maintenance, and stockpile reliability organizations supported by the surveillance.
The information required for supply purposes is determined by local procedures to satisfy local and higher-
headquarters supply actions. The information required for maintenance purposes normally includes more details
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