This section briefly discusses the primary adverse
affects of electromagnetic radiation on material and
personnel and the programs designed to minimize
those effects.
HAZARDS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC
RADIATION TO ORDNANCE
During on-loading or off-loading of ammunition,
there is a danger that RF electromagnetic fields could
accidentally activate electro-explosive devices (EEDs)
or electrically initiated ordnance. This is a very real
hazard to the ordnance, the ship, and the crew. The
Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance
(HERO) Program was developed to control these
types of situations.
When HERO is set, it usually requires that radars
be secured. When you are in port and must conduct
any radar maintenance requiring rotating the antenna
or radiating, always coordinate your actions with your
base operations department via the command duty
officer (CDO).
HERO conditions anywhere in the area could be
affected by your radar. Even if you just want to
radiate a short period for an operational test, check
with the officer of the day (OOD) or the CDO first.
Table 3-1 (an example of tables found in NAV-
SEA OP 3565, volume II, part 1) identifies ordnance
hazards associated with common electronic equip-
ment.
Table 3-1.—Exposure to Main Beam Radiation of Shipboard and Shore Station Equipment
3-2
