Let your computer track CBRN equipment.

Dear Editor,

NBC NCOs have a big job. They not only have to make sure their unit's masks, chemical alarms, protective suits, and radiac equipment are ready for action, but they must also document what's in the NBC room, what belongs to which soldiers, and when the equipment was verified.

In this computer age, it would be a shame not to let your computer do most of that tracking work. And it's not that hard. I used Microsoft Excel to create spread sheets to track mask testing, JSLIST sizes, M41 PATS and AN/UDR-13 calibrations, administration ID numbers for equipment, and optical inserts.

For the masks, for example, I created these columns in my spread sheet:

* unit mask admin #

* name/rank

* size

* type

* lot #

* fit/test date

* date cleaned/ sanitized 

* canister/filter lot #

* canister/filter date installed

* inserts installed/ ordered date

Once you have your spreadsheet created, you can update it in minutes. And, of course, you can find any info you need in seconds. It's a good idea to back up the information to a CD in case your computer ever crashes.

SSG Jeffrey Hansford

US Army Chemical School

Ft Leonard Wood, MO

Editor's note: NBC NCOs do have enough to do already. It's a great idea to make your computer pitch in and help.