Helseplager i forbindelse med bruk av HK416 : vurdering av årsak og helserisiko

The Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (NDRE) was assigned by the Norwegian Defence Logistic Organization to elucidate the reason for the reported health hazard associated with HK416 assault rifle practicing, and to perform a health risk assessment and to propose appropriate means of risk reduction. Ammunition contains compounds that can pose a health risk. Hence, it is important that use of ammunition is carried out in a manner that prevents personnel from being exposed at unacceptable levels. After practicing with the assault rifle HK416, recently obtained by the Norwegian Defence, soldiers have from time to time complained about health problems such as coughing, fever, chills, headache, nausea, myalgia, and sore throat. Tests have been carried out in order to elucidate whether the following aspects are of importance to the observed health effects: • The design of the weapon • Ammunition content and mode of operation • Implementation of weapon practice In order to accomplish the tests, four weapons were tested, with two types of ammunition; lead free and with lead. These weapons were included in the test: AG3, Colt C8, HK416K and HK416N. The tests included quantification of personnel exposure and of particles and compounds from the different weapons and ammunitions. In addition a literature study of the toxicology of relevant compounds was carried out in order to relate cause and the observed health effects. A matching of the symptoms with the compounds in gun smoke from HK416, indicates that the health effects are caused by copper and zinc. These compounds were found at high concentrations, particularly after firing 5,56 x 45 mm lead free ammunition. Inhalation of copper and zinc are known to cause metal fume fever which is characterized by flue like symptoms. Means of risk reduction should be carried out. These should be aimed at reducing the exposure for the shooter. This would typical be ventilation of the stand, increased distance between the shooters, etc.