Comparison of functional performance of a soldier in full chemical and biological protection versus battle dress

Abstract

The comparison of functional performance between a soldier wearing a chemical and biological (CB) protective equipment and an ordinary battle dress (BD) was conducted at Protechnik's facilities and Jozini–South Africa. The basis of the comparison was that CB protective equipment causes compatibility problems such as mobility and clearance, and that these factors would affect the soldier when performing various activities. Sixteen obstacle courses were erected to simulate a range of functions normally performed by an infantry soldier. Time taken by each soldier to complete a variety of motions and obstacle clearance activities was recorded. It was found that the CB protective equipment interfered with the soldier's performance. The soldier's movements were observed to be restricted and abnormal. The time taken to complete similar activities was longer when wearing the CB protective equipment than ordinary BD. Relevance to industry To determine the effect of protective equipment on functional performance.