L-117 The MSIAC Modified Sympathetic Reaction and Shaped Charge Jet Impact TTCP WAG-11 Protocols

January 2006
Frédéric Peugeot (Warhead Technology)

A hazard assessment protocol is an ordered procedure consisting of a flow chart directing the user through the evaluation of a hazard area. The protocol can assist the user by identifying not only the response "paths" that are most likely to be encountered and must, therefore be considered, but also the information required in order to perform an assessment of the hazard. Since such an assessment is based on a logical process and is conducted for a munition in a real environment, subject to real threats, it will likely have more value than the results of a small number of go/no-go full scale hazard tests.

Each protocol consists of a decision tree flow chart that examines the science of successive events in the hazard/munitions interaction. In this way, it characterizes:

  • The hazard
  • The interaction of the hazard with the munition
  • The response of the munition.

Each box (decision point) in the flow chart identifies the information required, and in what order, to make a decision and follow the process to the next box. In the simplest terms, then, a hazard assessment protocol is an orderly process for viewing the hazard areas, and defining what information is needed to assess hazards.