ASTM E2771-11(2019)

Standard Terminology for Homeland Security Applications

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 In this terminology, definitions used in other ASTM International standards are indicated by following the definition with the designation of the standard.
SCOPE
1.1 This terminology provides definitions and abbreviations of terms used in ASTM International standards pertaining to homeland security applications.  
1.2 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2019
• ICS: 13.200 - Accident and disaster control
• Technical Committee: E54 - Homeland Security Applications
• Drafting Committee: E54.91 - Planning and Coordination

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E3005-24 - Standard Terminology for Body Armor and Ballistic Protection
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM D883-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D883-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2601-23 - Standard Practice for Radiological and Nuclear Emergency Response
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM E3002-15(2023) - Standard Practice for Assessing the Comparative Efficacy of Products Used for the Decontamination of Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) on Skin
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM E3003-20 - Standard Practice for Body Armor Wearer Measurement and Fitting of Armor
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2020
• Refers: ASTM D1129-13(2020)e2 - Standard Terminology Relating to Water
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3068-20 - Standard Test Method for Contact Measurement of Backface Deformation in Clay Backing During Body Armor Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3112/E3112M-20 - Standard Test Method for Ballistic-resistant Products and Shoot Packs
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3004-20 - Standard Specification for Preparation and Verification of Clay Blocks Used in Ballistic-Resistance Testing of Torso Body Armor
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3086-20 - Standard Practice for Creating Appliques for Use in Testing of Nonplanar Soft Body Armor Designed for Females
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3062/E3062M-20 - Standard Specification for Indoor Ballistic Test Ranges for Small Arms and Fragmentation Testing of Ballistic-resistant Items
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3005-20 - Standard Terminology for Body Armor
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2020
• Refers: ASTM E2677-20 - Standard Test Method for Estimating Limits of Detection in Trace Detectors for Explosives and Drugs of Interest
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2020
• Refers: ASTM D883-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020

Overview

ASTM E2771-11(2019): Standard Terminology for Homeland Security Applications provides a unified vocabulary of definitions and abbreviations used across ASTM International standards related to homeland security. This terminology standard serves as a foundational reference to ensure clarity and consistency in communication within the realm of homeland security, spanning emergency management, protective equipment, detection technology, and risk assessment. Developed in line with internationally recognized principles from the WTO Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee, ASTM E2771-11(2019) supports standardized language for global interoperability and regulatory compliance.

Key Topics

• Standardized Definitions: Establishes clear, consensus-based definitions and abbreviations for terms frequently used in homeland security, such as detection thresholds, alarm rules, blast resistance, and accreditation.
• Cross-Referenced Standards: Indicates when a definition originates from another ASTM standard, aiding users in tracing technical requirements or guidelines across multiple documents.
• Coverage: Addresses terminology for equipment (e.g., body armor, protective gloves), processes (e.g., calibration, decontamination), emergency operations, community resilience, and incident management.
• Harmonization: Aligns with other international and national documentation, referencing relevant government, ISO/IEC, NFPA, and NIJ standards to reinforce consistency in use.
• Relevance: Includes definitions pertaining to chemical, biological, radiological, and explosive threats, as well as protective clothing, emergency preparedness, stakeholder roles, and authority structures.

Applications

The practical value of ASTM E2771-11(2019) lies in its ability to:

• Facilitate Communication: By providing standardized terminology, the document ensures that first responders, emergency managers, manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers all operate with a shared understanding, reducing misinterpretations in critical situations.
• Support Training and Evaluation: Emergency response agencies and training institutions benefit from using consistent vocabulary in educational materials, drills, and performance assessments.
• Enable Product Development and Certification: Manufacturers of homeland security equipment (such as chemical vapor detectors and ballistic-resistant products) use these definitions to align product specifications, testing protocols, and certification paperwork with regulatory and procurement requirements.
• Guide Regulatory Compliance: Organizations implementing homeland security measures can reference this standard when navigating legal frameworks and quality assurance programs, both domestically and internationally.
• Promote Interoperability: Harmonized terminology ensures effective interoperability during multi-agency or international response efforts, from urban search and rescue to hazardous material decontamination.

Related Standards

ASTM E2771-11(2019) links terminology to a broad array of referenced documents, including but not limited to:

• ASTM Standards:
  • E2413 (Hospital Preparedness and Response)
  • E2458 (Bulk Sample Collection)
  • E2520 (Performance of Explosive Detectors)
  • E2541 (Disaster Restoration)
  • E2842 (Credentialing for Incident Access)
  • E3005 (Body Armor Terminology)
• Government and International Standards:
  • 18 U.S.C. 175 & 178 (Biological agents and weapons)
  • ISO/IEC 17000 (Conformity assessment vocabulary)
  • NFPA 472/1561/1600 (HazMat, incident management, business continuity)
  • NIJ 0101.06 (Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor)
  • IAEA and NCRP guidance for radiological emergencies

Optimized for Homeland Security

ASTM E2771-11(2019) is an essential resource for stakeholders engaged in homeland security operations, emergency preparedness, and risk management. By adopting this terminology standard, organizations improve their capacity for effective communication, rapid decision-making, and coordinated response during both routine and large-scale incidents. Using consistent and internationally recognized terminology enhances transparency, increases safety, and accelerates the implementation of best practices across all levels of homeland security operations.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E2771 − 11 (Reapproved 2019)
Standard Terminology for
Homeland Security Applications
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2771; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope (AHP) to Multiattribute DecisionAnalysis of Investments
Related to Projects, Products, and Processes
1.1 This terminology provides definitions and abbreviations
E2411Specification for Chemical Warfare Vapor Detector
of terms used in ASTM International standards pertaining to
(CWVD) (Withdrawn 2014)
homeland security applications.
E2413 Guide for Hospital Preparedness and Response
1.2 This international standard was developed in accor-
(Withdrawn 2018)
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
E2458Practices for Bulk Sample Collection and Swab
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
SampleCollectionofVisiblePowdersSuspectedofBeing
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Biological Agents and Toxins from Nonporous Surfaces
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
E2520Practice for Measuring and Scoring Performance of
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Trace Explosive Chemical Detectors
E2521Terminology for Evaluating Response Robot Capa-
2. Referenced Documents
bilities
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E2541Guide for Stakeholder-Focused, Consensus-Based
D638Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
Disaster Restoration Process for Contaminated Assets
D747Test Method for Apparent Bending Modulus of Plas-
(Withdrawn 2019)
tics by Means of a Cantilever Beam (Withdrawn 2019)
E2542Specification for Portable Water Heaters Used at
D790Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced
Personnel Decontamination Stations
and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materi-
E2543Specification for Portable Air Heaters Used at Per-
als
sonnel Decontamination Stations and Shelters
D882Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic
E2601Practice for Radiological Emergency Response
Sheeting
E2639Test Method for Blast Resistance of Trash Recep-
D883Terminology Relating to Plastics
tacles
D1129Terminology Relating to Water
E2640GuideforResourceManagementinEmergencyMan-
D1424Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by
agement and Homeland Security (Withdrawn 2019)
Falling-Pendulum (Elmendorf-Type) Apparatus
E2668Guide for Emergency Operations Center (EOC) De-
D3384Method of Test for Powder Resistance of Floor
velopment (Withdrawn 2019)
Polish Films
E2677Test Method for Estimating Limits of Detection in
D5219Terminology Relating to Body Dimensions for Ap-
Trace Detectors for Explosives and Drugs of Interest
parel Sizing
E2731Specification for Materials to Mitigate the Spread of
E1301Guide for Proficiency Testing by Interlaboratory
Radioactive Contamination after a Radiological Disper-
Comparisons (Withdrawn 2012)
sion Event (Withdrawn 2018)
E1765Practice for Applying Analytical Hierarchy Process
E2732 Practice for Responder Family Support Service
(Withdrawn 2020)
E2739Specification for Personnel Decontamination System
This terminology is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E54 on
to be Used During a Chemical Event (Withdrawn 2019)
Homeland Security Applications and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
E54.91 on Planning and Coordination.
E2740Specification for Trash Receptacles Subjected to
Current edition approved May 1, 2019. Published June 2019. Originally
Blast Resistance Testing
ɛ3
approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as E2771–11 . DOI:
E2770GuideforOperationalGuidelinesforInitialResponse
10.1520/E2771-11R19.
to Suspected Biological Agents and Toxins
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
E2800Practice for Characterization of Bacillus Spore Sus-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
pensions for Reference Materials
the ASTM website.
E2831/E2831MGuide for Deployment of Blast Resistant
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org. Trash Receptacles in Crowded Places
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2771 − 11 (2019)
E2842Guide for Credentialing for Access to an Incident or E3113SpecificationforBallistic-resistantVehicleDoorPan-
Event Site els Used by Public Safety Agencies
E3131Specification for Nucleic Acid-Based Systems for
E2851/E2851MSpecification for Ruggedness Requirements
for HAZMAT Instrumentation Bacterial Pathogen Screening of Suspicious Visible Pow-
ders
E2852Guide for Acquisition, Maintenance, Storage, and
E3141/E3141MTest Method for Ballistic Resistant Shields
Use of Hazardous Material Detection Instrumentation
for Law Enforcement
E2866 Test Method for Determination of Diisopropyl
F1494Terminology Relating to Protective Clothing
Methylphosphonate, Ethyl Methylphosphonic Acid, Iso-
F1731Practice for Body Measurements and Sizing of Fire
propyl Methylphosphonic Acid, Methylphosphonic Acid,
andRescueServicesUniformsandOtherThermalHazard
and Pinacolyl MethylphosphonicAcid in Soil by Pressur-
Protective Clothing
ized Fluid Extraction and Analyzed by Liquid
F2878Test Method for Protective Clothing Material Resis-
Chromatography/Tandem M
tance to Hypodermic Needle Puncture
E2885Specification for Handheld Point Chemical Vapor
F2992/F2992MTest Method for Measuring Cut Resistance
Detectors (HPCVD) for Homeland Security Applications
of Materials Used in Protective Clothing withTomodyna-
E2915GuideforEmergencyOperationsCenter(EOC)Man-
mometer (TDM-100) Test Equipment
agement
2.2 Government Standards:
E2933Specification for Stationary Point Chemical Vapor
18 U.S.C. 175Prohibitions with Respect to Biological
Detectors (SPCVD) for Homeland Security Applications
Weapons
E2951Guide for Community Emergency Preparedness for
18 U.S.C. 178Definitions
Persons with Disabilities
CPL 02-02-071 Technical Enforcement and Assistance
E2952SpecificationforAir-PurifyingRespiratoryProtective
Guidelines for Hazardous Waste Site and RCRA Correc-
Smoke Escape Devices (RPED)
tive Action Clean-up Operations
E3002Practice for Assessing the Comparative Efficacy of
DOD4145.26MDepartmentofDefense:DODContractors’
Products Used for the Decontamination of Chemical
Safety Manual for Ammunition and Explosives
Warfare Agents (CWAs) on Skin
FEMA US&R-2-FGUrban Search and Rescue Response
E3003Practice for Body Armor Wearer Measurement and
System Field Operations Guide
Fitting of Armor
FIPS 201Personal Identity Verification (PIV) of Federal
E3004Specification for Preparation andVerification of Clay
Employees and Contractors
BlocksUsedinBallistic-ResistanceTestingofTorsoBody
NIMS 2008National Incident Management System
Armor
NIMS Guide 0002National Credentialing Definition and
E3005Terminology for Body Armor
Criteria
E3062/E3062M Specification for Indoor Ballistic Test
2.3 IAEA Standards:
Ranges for Small Arms and Fragmentation Testing of
IAEA 2006International Atomic Energy Agency Annual
Ballistic-resistant Items
Report 2006
E3068Test Method for Contact Measurement of Backface
2.4 NCRP Standards:
DeformationinClayBackingDuringBodyArmorTesting
NCRP Report 165Responding to a Radiological or Nuclear
E3078/E3078MPractice for Conditioning of Hard Armor
Terrorism Incident: A Guide for Decision Makers
Test Items
2.5 NFPA Standards:
E3086Practice for CreatingAppliques for Use in Testing of
NFPA472Standard for Competence of Responders to Haz-
Nonplanar Soft Body Armor Designed for Females
ardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents
E3095GuideforSurrogateMaterialsforFieldEvaluationof
NFPA1561Standard on Emergency Services Incident Man-
NucleicAcid-Based On-Site BiologicalAssessmentTech-
agement System and Command Safety
nologies
E3107/E3107MTest Method for Resistance to Penetration
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of
and Backface Deformation for Ballistic-resistant Torso
Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Washington, DC 20401-0001, http://
Body Armor and Shoot Packs
www.access.gpo.gov.
E3108Practice for Conformity Assessment of Protective
Available from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 200
Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20210, http://www.osha.gov.
Gloves Worn by Law Enforcement and Corrections Offi-
Available from the Defense Technical Information Center, 8725 John J.
cers
Kingman Road, Suite 0944, Ft. Belvoir, VA 23060-6128.
E3109Specification for Protective Gloves Worn by Law 8
Available from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 500 C St.,
Enforcement and Corrections Officers SW, Washington, DC 20472, http://www.fema.gov.
Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100
E3110/E3110MTest Method for Collection of Ballistic
Bureau Dr., Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, http://www.nist.gov.
Limit Data for Ballistic-resistant Torso Body Armor and
Available from International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna International
Shoot Packs
Centre, PO Box 100, 1400 Vienna, Austria, https://www.iaea.org.
Available from National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements,
E3111/E3111MTest Methods for Ballistic Resistant Head
7910 Woodmont Ave., Suite 400, Bethesda, MD 20814-3095, http://
Protection
www.ncrponline.org.
E3112/E3112MTest Method for Ballistic-resistant Products
Available from National Fire ProtectionAssociation (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
and Shoot Packs Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
E2771 − 11 (2019)
NFPA 1600Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management competence to carry out specific conformity assessment
and Business Continuity Programs tasks. E3108–18 from ISO/IEC 17000
2.6 NIJ Standards:
accuracy, n—closeness of agreement between a test result and
NIJ 0101.06Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor
the accepted reference values. E3131–17
2.7 ISO/IEC Standards:
E3095–17 from E1301
ISO/IEC 17000Conformity assessment–Vocabulary and
advertised protective area, n—anareaofaglovestatedbythe
general principles
ISO/IEC 17025General Requirements for the Competence supplier as having specific protection. E3109–18
of Testing and Calibration Laboratories
AEGL-1, n—airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or
ISO Guide 34General Requirements for the Competence of
mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the
Reference Material Producers
general population, including susceptible individuals, could
2.8 AOAC Standards:
experience transient health effects.
SMPR 2010.003Standard Method Performance Require-
E2885–13
ments for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Methods for
E2933–13
Detection of Bacillus anthracis in Aerosol Collection
Filters and/or Liquids
AEGL-2, n—airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or
mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the
3. Significance and Use
general population, including susceptible individuals, could
experienceirreversibleorotherserious,long-lastingadverse
3.1 In this terminology, definitions used in other ASTM
health effects or an impaired ability to escape.
International standards are indicated by following the defini-
E2885–13
tion with the designation of the standard.
E2933–13
4. Terminology
AEGL-3, n—airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or
4.1 Definitions:
mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the
30-minute Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected
general population, including susceptible individuals, could
Airborne Chemicals, (30-min AEGL value), n—represent
experience life-threatening health effects or death.
exposure limits for the general public and are applicable to
E2885–13
emergency exposure periods for 30 minutes. E2885–13
E2933–13
E2933–13
affected stakeholder, n—any individual, group, company,
abrasion, n—the wearing away of any part of a material by
organization, government, tribe, or other entity which may
rubbing against another surface. E3109–18 from D3384
bedirectlyaffectedbytheoutcomeofthespecificrestoration
planning process. E2541–10
abstain, v—robot manufacturer or designated operator declar-
ing not to perform a particular test or not to have the test
affiliation, adj—the association of a non-credentialed indi-
result disseminated. E2521–16
vidual or group of individuals under the supervision of an
accessory, n—a body armor component that is detachable or
AHJ-compliant credentialed responder for the purpose of
removable from the body armor and is intended to provide
gaining access to accomplish a specific incident or event
extendedareaofcoverageprotectionagainstthreatsthatmay
mission. E2842–14
include ballistic threats, stabbing, fragmentation, blunt
agreements, n—advance written (preferred) and/or oral ar-
impact, or a combination of threats. E3005–18
rangements between and among entities that provide a
DISCUSSION—Accessories are typically attachments to tactical body
armorprovidingprotectiontoareasnotcoveredbythevest,suchasthe
mechanism to share resources and obtain assistance.
shoulders, upper arms, neck, sides, pelvis, and groin. See tactical body
E2640–10 from NFPA 1600/NIMS 2008
armor. See vest.
air-purifying respiratory protective smoke escape device,
accessory, n—item that may be provided with an RPED that
RPED, n—air-purifying respirator used to protect a person
does not affect its ability to meet the requirements of this
whileescapingfromafirebyremovingcertaincontaminants
specification. E2952–17
of fire-generated products of combustion from the inhaled
air. E2952–17
accreditation, n—third-party attestation related to a confor-
mityassessmentbodyconveyingformaldemonstrationofits
ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable), n—a principle of
radiation protection philosophy that requires that exposures
12 to ionizing radiation should be kept as low as reasonably
Available from National Institute of Justice (NIJ), 810 7th St., NW,
achievable, economic and social factors being taken into
Washington, DC 20531, http://nij.gov.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
account; the ALARA principle is satisfied when the expen-
Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier,
diture of further resources would be unwarranted by the
Geneva, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
reduction in exposure that would be achieved.
Available from AOAC International, 2275 Research Blvd., Suite 300,
Rockville, MD 20850-3250, http://www.aoac.org. E2601–15 from NCRP Report No. 165
E2771 − 11 (2019)
alarm, n—sound, light, vibration, and/or data communication analyte, n—the particular chemical compound under
signal to the operator(s) indicating that the handheld point consideration. E2677–14
DISCUSSION—Pure analyte is used to make reference solutions by
chemicalvapordetector(HPCVD)hasdetectedthepresence
quantitative dissolution into a known amount of solvent. Quantitative
of a chemical vapor of interest at or above the alarm
depositions of reference solutions are subsequently used to prepare
threshold value. E2885–13
reference swabs containing known amounts of analyte.
E2933–13
analytical column, n—the particles of the solid stationary
alarm, n—visual or audible response, or both, from an ETD
phasefillthewholeinsidevolumeofatube(column)thatthe
that signifies the detection of an explosive. E2520–15
mobilephasepassesthroughusingthepressuregeneratedby
the liquid chromatography system. E2866 – 12 (2016)
alarm rule, n—user-selectable explosive trace detector (ETD)
response requirements that, if met during an analysis, result
angle of incidence, n—theanglebetweenthetestthreatlineof
in a detection alarm for a particular compound.
aim and the line normal to a reference plane based on the
E2601–15
front surface of the backing assembly or witness panel. See
DISCUSSION—An alarm rule is a logistical pattern in the detection
also obliquity. E3110/E3110M–19
response matrix for an analysis. The simplest alarm rule would require
DISCUSSION—Some standards have used the terms angle of incidence
onlyasinglepositivedetectionresponse,whereasamoreselectiverule
and obliquity as synonyms, but in this standard, they are defined
(useful for minimizing alpha risk) may require two positive responses
differently.
in any of three channels and perhaps a negative response in another
channel. apex, n—the greatest protrusion of the breast as seen from the
side. E3003–15 from Terminology D5219
alarm threshold, n—see detection threshold. E2677–14
applicant, n—an individual applying for a credential.
alarm threshold value, n—vaporconcentrationcorresponding
E2842–14
to an AEGL value (AEGL-1, AEGL-2, or AEGL-3) that
applique, n—a three-dimensional item molded from backing
activates an HPCVD alarm. E2885–13
material that is shaped and sized for testing or conditioning
alias, n—a false low-frequency component that appears when
a nonplanar test item. E3086–17
reconstructinganalogdatathataresampledataninsufficient
E3005–18
rate. E2639 – 12 (2018)
DISCUSSION—Some appliques are designed for the purpose of filling
the entire space behind a nonplanar test item; other appliques are
all-hazards, adj—hazard is an inherent property of an event,
designed to assess features of a nonplanar test item.
product, or object that represents a threat to human life,
applique, n—backingmaterialintendedtofillthespacebehind
property, or the environment. In this context, all-hazards
a nonplanar test item during testing or conditioning
refers to any incident or event that could pose such a threat.
procedures. E3068–17ɛ1
E2413 – 04 (2009)
DISCUSSION—These may include special equipment and processes
applique, n—forhardarmortesting,backingmaterialintended
thatareusedlessfrequentlyonadailybasisandrequireroutinetraining
to fill the space behind the test item during testing or
to be most effective during a major incident.
conditioning procedures. E3078/E3078M–19
alpha, α, risk, n—probability of obtaining a positive detection
applique pattern, n—a replica of the final product (that is,
outcome, or alarm, when analyzing a process blank in a
applique) used for preparing the applique mold cavity.
properly-operating ETD. E2677–14
E3086–17
ambient background, n—particular mixture of environmental
approved, adj—acceptabletotheauthorityhavingjurisdiction.
substances (dust, dirt, etc.) that is collected during swab
E2952–17
sampling. E2520–15
areal density, n—ameasureofthemassofthearmorpanelper
DISCUSSION—The chemical background collected on swabs is ex-
pected to be highly variable, compositionally and temporally, com- unit area, usually expressed in kilograms per square meter
2 2
prised of a nearly unlimited number of possible chemical species and
(kg/m ) or pound-mass per square foot (lbm/ft ).
formulations. Background challenge materials (BCMs) should mimic
E3005–18
important types of chemical background found in ETD deployment
areas. armhole, n—in garment construction, the area of a garment
throughwhichthearmpassesorintowhichasleeveisfitted.
ammunition, n—one or more loaded cartridges consisting of
E3003–15 from Practice F1731 – 96 (2013)
case, primer, propellant, and one or more projectiles.
E3005–18 armor carrier, n—See carrier. E3005–18
E2771 − 11 (2019)
armor panel, n—acomponentofsoftbodyarmorconsistingof back break-point, n—the location on the back of the torso
protectivematerials,typicallyenclosedinapanelcover.See where the arm separates from the body.
ballistic panel, blunt impact panel, stab panel. See also E3003–15 from Terminology D5219
panel cover. E3005–18
back width, n—thehorizontaldistancestraightacrosstheback
aseptic technique, n—operation or performance of a proce- of the torso at the level of the back break-points; for the
dure or method under carefully controlled conditions to
purposes of this practice, the back width measurement is
reduce the risk of exposure and prevent the introduction of defined to be the same value as the chest width
unwanted material/matter (contamination) into a sample.
measurement. E3003–15
E2458–17
backface deformation (BFD), n—the indentation in the back-
E2770–17
ing material caused by a projectile impact on the test item
aspect ratio, n—ratio of width to height of an image produced
during testing. Synonymous with backface signature.
by a camera system. E2521–16
E3005–18
DISCUSSION—Details necessary for making BFD measurements are
assay, n—collectionofoneormorereagentsandmaterialsthat
specified in individual test methods.
are used in a prescribed fashion to quantitatively or qualita-
backface signature, n—See backface deformation.
tively characterize a biological material. E3095–17
E3005–18
assay, n—quantitativeorqualitativetestusedtodeterminedthe
presence or absence of a biological material. E3131–17 background challenge material, BCM, n—a standard natural
matrix material applied on a test swab to challenge the
asset, n—property of a community to which (for purposes of
detection performance of an ETD. E2520–15
this standard) a high monetary, ecological, or socio-cultural,
DISCUSSION—A BCM should be a well-documented material that
or a combination thereof, value can be assigned, but which
closelymimicstheambientbackgroundtypicallycollectedduringswab
has no essential service or critical infrastructure function
sampling. Many certified reference materials, derived from a variety of
within the community. (There would be no need for this
natural matrices and processed to offer stable and reproducible
characteristics, are internationally available from standards suppliers.
consensus-based restoration process in cases where com-
The BCMs recommended here are Standard Reference Materials
plete restoration of critical infrastructure is obligatory.)
(SRMs). While these represent a limited number of natural matrices,
E2541–10
theyarecompositionallycomplexandofferfairdetectionchallengesto
DISCUSSION—Some examples of assets include statues and
ETDs.
monuments, historical landmarks, forests and nature preserves,
watersheds, parks and recreational areas, cultural and archaeological
background chemical vapors, n—incidental chemical vapors
sites, sports and entertainment pavilions, tourist attractions, govern-
present in the environment at vapor concentrations lower
ment facilities, roads, streets, bridges, utilities, dams, and infrastruc-
than the 30-minute AEGL-1 values. E2885–13
ture.
E2933–13
attribute, n—a qualification, certification, authorization, or
backing assembly, n—a backing fixture filled with backing
privilege of the credential holder. E2842–14
material. For example, a clay block is a type of a backing
audit—systematic, independent, documented process for ob-
assembly. E3004–15ɛ1
taining records, statements of fact or other relevant informa-
E3005 – 2018
tion and assessing them objectively to determine the extent
backing fixture, n—any apparatus designed to hold or contain
to which specified requirements are fulfilled.
the backing material(s) for a specific test. E3004–15ɛ1
E3108–18 from ISO/IEC 17000
backing fixture, n—any apparatus designed to hold the back-
authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), n—the organization,
ing material(s) for a specific test. E3005–18
office, or individual responsible for enforcing the require-
ments of a code or standard, or approving equipment,
backing material, n—the substance placed behind the test
materials, an installation, or a procedure.
itemduringtestingwhichisintendedtobeawitnessmaterial
E2770–17 from NFPA
and which may provide a measurable indication of test item
E2732–11 from NFPA 1600
performance. E3004–15ɛ1
E2951–13 from NFPA 1600
E3005–18
E2842–14 from NFPA 1600
backing material, n—the substance placed behind the test
authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), n—the organization,
item during testing. E3005–18
office, or individual responsible for approving equipment,
DISCUSSION—The backing material typically provides support for the
materials, an installation, or a procedure.
test item, and it may act as a witness material and may provide a
E2668–10 from NFPA 1561
measurable indication of the test item performance.
E2915–13 from NFPA 1561
ballistic layup, n—the layering of ballistic materials through
E2601–15 from NFPA 472
the thickness of the ballistic-resistant item under
authority having jurisdiction, n—organization, office, or
consideration. E3141/E3141M–18
individual responsible for approving any equipment, an
DISCUSSION—Ballistic materials are typically recorded from strike
installation, or a procedure. E2952–17 face to body side.
E2771 − 11 (2019)
DISCUSSION—Ifaswabispreparedusingthesameproceduresusedin
ballistic limit, n—ameasureofanitem’sballisticresistanceto
preconditioning the reference swabs and only pure solvent or a
completepenetrationexpressedasavelocityassociatedwith
chemical background is deposited, this swab is called a process blank.
some probability of perforation. E3110/E3110M–19
E3005–18
blast resistance, n—forpurposesofthisstandardspecification,
DISCUSSION—Theitemmaybeatestitem,material,shootpack,body
the non-numerical attribute of a trash receptacle that is
armor, or other ballistic-resistant product.
established when the results of explosive testing of the
submitted specimens meet all performance requirements
ballistic panel, n—a type of armor panel intended to provide
given in this specification. E2740 – 12 (2018)
ballistic resistance. E3005–18
ballistic resistance, n—a characteristic of protective equip- blast resistance, n—the non-numerical attribute of a trash
receptacle that is established when the results of explosive
ment or materials describing their ability to provide protec-
tion from projectiles. E3005–18 testing of the submitted specimens meet all performance
requirements given in Specification E2740.
bare charge, n—explosive charge that is either not encased or
E2831/E2831M– 11 (2018)
is encased by a material, such as a cardboard tube, that will
not produce primary fragments. E2740 – 12 (2018) blast resistant trash receptacle, n—a trash receptacle that
conforms to the requirements given in Specification E2411.
base home, n—the main or primary place of residence for the
E2831/E2831M – 11 (2018)
responder’s household and family. E2732–11
blunt impact panel, n—a type of armor panel intended to
basic plane, n—the plane through the centers of the external
provide protection against impact from a blunt object.
ear openings and the lower edges of the eye sockets.
E3005–18
E3111/E3111M–18
E2952–17
blunt impact resistance, n—a characteristic of protective
equipment or materials describing their ability to provide
basic societal functions, n—those basic functions within a
protection against impact from a blunt object. E3005–18
community that provide services for public health, health
care, water/sanitation, shelter/clothing, food, energy supply,
body armor, n—an item of personal protective equipment
publicworks,environment,logistics/transportation,security,
intended to protect the wearer from threats that may include
communications, economy, and education.
ballistic threats, stabbing, fragmentation, or blunt impact.
E2413 – 04 (2009)
E3005–18
DISCUSSION—Law enforcement and corrections officers typically
beta, β, risk, n—probability of obtaining a negative detection
refer to body armor as a vest.
outcome, or non-alarm, in a properly operating ETD when
body-worn, adj—aHAZMATinstrumentthattypicallyweighs
analyzing a swab containing analyte at the mass level
corresponding to the limit of detection. E2677–14 nomorethan5.4kg[12lb]andisnolargerthan65cm(sum
of the sides). E2851/E2851M–13
biological agent, n—any microorganism (including but not
limited to, bacteria, viruses, fungi, rickettsiae, or protozoa), bridge gauge,n—anassemblyusedformeasuringthatconsists
or infectious substance, or any naturally occurring, bioengi-
of a depth gauge and supports that rest on opposite sides of
neered or synthesized component of any such microorgan- the backing fixture. E3004–15ɛ1
ism or infectious substance, capable of causing: (1) death,
bulk powder, n—a visible powder, at least approximately 5
disease, or other biological malfunction in a human, an
mL (1 teaspoon) in volume amassed or dispersed over a
animal, a plant, or another living organism; (2) deterioration
limitedarea(optimally,areashouldbelessthan20by20cm
of food, water, equipment, supplies, or material of any kind;
(approximately 8 by 8 in.)). E2458–17
or (3) deleterious alteration of the environment.
E2770–17
E2458–17 from 18 USC 178
E3095 – 17 from 18 USC 178
bullet, n—aprojectilefiredfromafirearmortestingapparatus.
E3131–17 from 18 USC 178
E3005–18
DISCUSSION—Also termed biothreat agent.
DISCUSSION—The SAAMI definition considers bullets to be projec-
tiles fired from rifled barrels, which differentiates bullets from shot,
biothreat agent, n—any microorganism, virus, infectious
slugs, fragment simulators, and other projectiles.
substance, or biological product that may be engineered as a
result of biotechnology, or any naturally occurring or bioen- business impact analysis (BIA), n—management level analy-
sis that identifies the impacts of losing the entity’s resources
gineered component of any such microorganism, virus,
infectious substance, or biological product, capable of caus- by measuring the effect of the resource loss and escalating
lossesovertimetoprovidetheentitywithreliabledataupon
ing: (1) death, disease or other biological malfunction in a
human, an animal, a plant, or another living organism; (2) which to base decisions concerning hazard mitigation, re-
covery strategies, and continuity planning.
deteriorationoffood,water,equipment,supplies,ormaterial
ofanykind;(3)or,deleteriousalterationoftheenvironment. E2413 – 04 (2009)
E2770–17 from 18 USC 175
bust point to bust point, n—thehorizontaldistancefromapex
blank, n—sample swab devoid of analyte. E2677 – 2014 to apex. E3003–15 from Terminology D5219
E2771 − 11 (2019)
bust point to side seam, n—on either side of the body, the to produce a product that complies with the requirements of
horizontal distance from apex to the midpoint between front this specification, authorizes the manufacturer to use a label
break-point and back break-point. E3003–15 on listed products that comply with the requirements of this
specification, and establishes a follow-up program con-
cache, n—stock of tools, equipment, and supplies stored in a
ducted by the organization as a check on the methods the
designated location.
manufacturer uses to determine continued compliance of
E2521–16 from FEMA US&R-2-FG
labeled and listed products with the requirements of this
specification. E2952–17
calibrate—to correlate the reading of an instrument or system
of measurement with a standard. E2852–13 from NFPA
certified product, n—any product that has successfully been
tested and found to conform by an appropriately accredited
calibration, n—setofoperationsthatestablish,underspecified
certification body. E3108–18
conditions, the relationship between the values of quantities
indicatedbyameasurementinstrumentormeasuringsystem
certified product listing—a publicly accessible listing of
or values represented by a material measure or a reference
certified products. E3108–18
material and the corresponding values realized by standards.
E3131–17
cervicale, n—the superior palpable point of the spine of the
seventh cervical (C7) vertebra. (Anthropometric Survey
capacity, adj—capability at a given time for a hospital to
(ANSUR) II Pilot Study: Methods and Summary Statistics);
provideagivenservicethatisdistinctfromcapability,which
the most protruding vertebrae at the back of the base of the
defines an ability to provide a service under normal operat-
neck. E3003–15
ing conditions. E2413 – 04 (2009)
DISCUSSION—A facility may have the capability to treat acute major
chain of custody, n—set of procedures and documents to
incidentpatientsinacathlab,butifacriticalresourceismissingatthe
account for the integrity of sample by tracking its handling
time of a disaster (for example, personnel, equipment, space, or
and storage from point of sample collection to final dispo-
electricity), the facility would not have the capacity to care for such a
sition of the sample. E2458–17
patient at that time when there is a need.
E2770–17
caregiver—a person or entity charged with or one who
check standard, n—stable, durable artifact that may be used
assumes the responsibility for rendering support to persons
for training, comparing among measuring instruments, and
with disabilities. E2951–13
checking instruments prior to and after calibration,
carrier, n—a garment whose primary purpose is to retain the
maintenance, or normal use to detect changes in the
armorpanel(s)orplate(s)andprovideameansofsupporting
instruments. E3068–17ɛ1
and securing the armor panel(s) or plate(s) to the wearer.
chemical background, n—particular mixture of environmen-
E3005–18
tal and ambient substances that may be sampled by a swab
cartridge, n—a single assembled unit consisting of a bullet,
during normal operation of an ETD in a deployment area.
propellant, primer, and casing. Synonymous with round.
E2677–14
E3005–18
DISCUSSION—The presence of certain substances on a sample or
referenceswabmayinterferewithorsuppressexpectedETDresponses
categorizing resources, n—the process of organizing re-
forparticularanalytes,henceinfluencingtheeffectivelimitofdetection
sourcesbycategory,kind,andtype,includingsize,capacity,
(LOD90) values for those analytes and changing the alpha and beta
capability, skill, and other characteristics to facilitate more
risks for the detection process.
efficientresourceorderingamongprovidersandusersduring
Chemical Warfare Agents (CWA), n—toxic chemicals that
an incident. E2640–10 from NIMS 2008
have been used as chemical weapons, or have been devel-
certification, n—a system whereby a third party independent
oped for use as chemical weapons. E3002–15
15,16
organizationdeterminesthatasupplierhasdemonstratedthe
DISCUSSION—Themostcommonchemicalwarfareagentsare: (a)
ability to make a product that complies with the require-
nerve agents—tabun (GA), sarin (GB), soman (GD), cyclosarin (GF),
ments of the specification, authorizes the supplier to use a VX; and (b) blister agents (or vesicants)—mustard and lewisite.
label on products that comply with the requirements of the
chest width, n—the horizontal distance straight across the
specification,andconductsafollow-upsurveillanceprogram
chest between the front break-points. E3003–15
to verify the methods the supplier uses to determine confor-
mance with the requirements of the specification.
E3108–18 from Terminology F1494
Schwartz, M. D., Hurst, C. G., Kirk, M.A., Reedy, S. J. D., and Braue Jr., E.
certification organization, n—independentthird-partyorgani-
H. “Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) for the Decontamination of
Chemical Warfare Agent (CWA) Dermal Exposure,” Current Pharmaceutical
zation that determines product compliance with the require-
Biotechnology, Vol 13, pp. 1971–1979, US Army Medical Research Institute
ments of this specification with a labeling/listing/follow-up
ChemicalDefense,UniversityofVirginia,DepartmentofHomelandSecurity,2012.
program. E2952–17 16
Fatah, A. A., Barrett, J. AS., Arcilesi Jr., R. D., Ewing K. J., Lattin, C. H.,
Helinski,M.S.,andBaig,I.A., Guide for the Selection of Chemical and Biological
certification/certify, n/adj—system whereby an organization
Decontamination Equipment for Emergency First Responders, NIJ Guide 103-00,
determines that a manufacturer has demonstrated the ability Vol 1, 2001.
E2771 − 11 (2019)
chest width, shooting stance, n—the horizontal distance tissuesthatareirradiatedandthecommitteddoseequivalent
straight across the chest between the front break-points, to these organs or tissues. E2601–15
taken while the wearer is in the preferred handgun shooting
Communications Access Real time Translation (CART)—a
stance. See shooting stance. E3003–15
stenographic device that captures input and transfers it to
chest/bust girth, n—the horizontal circumference around the computerassistedcaptionedcommunicationsonascreenfor
torso, taken under the arms and at the level of the apex. use by persons who are hard of hearing or deaf.
E2951–13
E3003–15 from Terminology D5219
civilians, n—persons who are members of the general public communications systems, n—those processes and resources
and who are not fire service or law enforcement personnel, (physical, procedural, and personnel related) that provide
or other emergency services personnel performing their information exchange during an identified major incident.
official duties during emergency incident operations. E2413 – 04 (2009)
E2952–17
community, n—group or groups of individuals, who live or
clavicle, n—the long curved bone that connects the upper part work in specific neighborhoods, areas, or regions.
E2541–10
of the breastbone with the shoulder blade at the top of each
shoulder; the clavicle may also be referred to as the
community/region, n—that area in which a hospital provides
collarbone. E3003–15
health services and basic societal functions.
clay block, n—a type of backing assembly in which the E2413 – 04 (2009)
backing material is ROMA Plastilina No. 1® modeling clay.
community asset mapping, v—documenting the tangible and
E3111/E3111M–18
intangible resources of a community where assets are to be
E3004–15ɛ1
preserved and enhanced. E2541–10
clay package,n—thesmallestunitofwrappedandlabeledclay
competency assessment, n—evaluation of proficiency of
as received from the supplier. E3004–15ɛ1
emergency response personnel across the range of
knowledge, skills, and abilities identified in the training
clear-down, n—the process of allowing an ETD to recover
program as related to performing duties associated with
from an alarm through a repeated sequence of automated
biothreat response; includes hands on assessment of profi-
cleansing to clear out the residual sample from the instru-
ment until the signal is reduced below a set threshold. ciency panels, field exercises, or drills performed in coordi-
nation with the receiving laboratory, and performed
E2520–15
annually. E3095–17 from E2770
DISCUSSION—Mayalsobeusedasaverb,forexample:“Enoughtime
was allowed to clear-down the ETD.”
complete penetration, n—the result of a test threat impact if
cold zone, n—the uncontaminated area where workers are
one or more of the following conditions are met: (1) any
unlikelytobeexposedtohazardoussubstancesordangerous
portion of a test threat, a fragment of a test threat, or a
conditions; also known as Clean Zone or Support Zone.
fragmentofthetestitempassesthroughthewearfaceofthe
E2458–17 from CPL 02-02-071 Directive test item; (2) a hole is created through the test item; (3) the
E2770–17 from CPL 02-02-071 Directive
presence of a test threat, a fragment of a test threat, or a
fragment of the test item is embedded or passes into the
collapse hazard zone, n—area established by the responsible
backingmaterial;or(4)aholeiscreatedthroughthewitness
official for the purpose of controlling all access to an area
panel. Synonymous with perforation. E3005–18
that could be impacted or affected by building collapse,
DISCUSSION—Theconditionsforcompletepenetrationarespecifiedin
falling debris, or other associated types of hazards including
individual test methods.
electrical, chemical, water, and aftershocks.
complete penetration—for purposes of this test method,
E2521–16 from FEMA US&R-2-FG
definition 4 fromTerminology E3005 applies: the result of a
colony forming unit (CFU), n—unitsforthenumberofviable
test threat impact if a hole is created through the witness
particles present in a solution. A CFU can result from a
panel. E3141/E3141M–18
single viable bacterial cell or from a clump of cells.
compliance/compliant, n/adj—meeting or exceeding all ap-
E2800 – 11 (2017) from D1129
plicable requirements of this specification. E2952–17
combination armor, n—a type of body armor intended to
compound identity calibration (CIC), n—act of providing
protect the wearer from both ballistic threats and stabbing.
the detector with a known substance so that the internal
E3005–18
software parameters may be adjusted to identify explosive
DISCUSSION—Combination armor is sometimes called dual-threat
compounds correctly. E2520–15
armor or multiple-threat armor.
DISCUSSION—Manufacturers of explosives detectors often provide
committed effective dose equivalent (CEDE)—committed
so-called calibration media. In an IMS instrument, CIC allows the
effective dose equivalent is the sum of the products of the
instrument to adjust the present values of the mobility (or drift) time of
weighting factors applicable to each of the body organs or the calibrant to the most current conditions. For explosives detectors
E2771 − 11 (2019)
basedonMS,CICisoftencalledtuning.SomeIMSandMSexplosives
incident. This is a business continuity planning focus.
detectors may have built-in materials and software to perform CIC
E2413 – 04 (2009)
automatically.
controlled ambient, n—conditions with temperature of 20 6
concealable armor, n—vest designed to be worn under the
5.5°C (68 6 10°F) and 50 6 20% relative humidity (RH).
shirt (uniform or undercover) or in a carrier that looks like a
Within this practice, this definition applies to any direct or
uniform shirt so that it is not easily seen.
indirect reference to controlled ambient.
E3003–15 from Terminology E3005
E3078/E3078M–19
concealable body armor, n—avestdesignedtobewornunder
controlled ambient, n—conditions with temperature of 20°C
the shirt (uniform or undercover) or in a carrier that looks
6 5.5 °C [68°F 6 10°F] and 50% 6 20% relative
like a uniform shirt so that it is not easily seen. E3005–18
humidity (RH). E3111/E3111M–18
DISCUSSION—Concealable body armor is also called concealable
DISCUSSION—Within this test method, this definition applies to any
armor.
direct or indirect reference to controlled ambient.
conditioning, n—a process that exposes an item, prior to
coronal plane, n—the plane, perpendicular to the basic and
testing, to a specified controlled environment or physical
mid-sagittal planes, which passes through the centers of the
stresses, or both. E3005–18
external ear openings. E3111/E3111M–18
confidence check, n—the use of a surrogate material for
counts per minute (cpm), n—the number of radiological
qualitative evaluation of operational performance of on-site
transformations detected by a radiation instrument in one
biological assessment technologies, ranging in applicability
minute. E2852–13
fromdevelopingperformancecharacteristicsofatechnology
credential, n—a credential is an attestation of the identity,
to checking operator capabilities. E3095–17
qualification, and authorization of an individual to allow
DISCUSSION—For confidence checks, a surrogate material does not
access to an incident or event site. E2842–14
need to be thoroughly characterized for quantity.
credentialing, n—the administrative process for validating the
confidence interval, CI, n—range of values created using a
qualifications of personnel and assessing their background,
procedure that, when repeated many times, on distinct
for authorization and permitting/granting access to an inci-
datasets, generated from the same underlying stochastic
dent (site or event). E2842–14 from NIMS Guide 0002
process, will bracket the true measure of performance, such
as probability of detection, the proportion of times stated.
credentialing process, n—the objective evaluation and docu-
E3131–17
mentation of an individual’s current certification, license, or
degree; training and experience; and competence or profi-
confidence level, CL, n—probability value associated with a
ciency to meet applicable standards, provide particular
confidence interval; the percentage of intervals that can be
services and/or functions, or perform specific tasks under
expectedtoincludethetruepopulationparameterinthelong
specific conditions during an incident.
run. E3131–17
E2640–10 from NIMS 2008
confirmatory analysis, n—a test or a series of assays that
critical value, CV, n—instrumental response amplitude at
definitively identifies
...