FAQ Uniforms

Where can I find information on new factory treated uniforms including ordering information (National Stock Numbers [NSNs]), availability, etc.?

The Uniform Permethrin Treatment Matrix provides the most current information regarding the status of all uniforms currently available by Service in the DoD supply system. 

What is the current policy or procedure for retreating factory treated or flame retardant uniforms?

At this time, no flame retardant uniforms are authorized for permethrin treatment.  Also, the EPA currently prohibits the field retreatment of any uniforms that have been previously treated at the factory or with the 2 gallon sprayer and/or the Individual Dynamic Absorption (IDA) kit.  If a permethrin-treated uniform (whether at the factory, with the 2-gal sprayer, or IDA kit) has exceeded the EPA label of 50 washings, it should be replaced. Be sure to fully utilize and follow the DoD Insect Repellent System to reduce the risk from medically important insects. 

I am leaving soon for a deployment. What Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is recommended?

 

For such information, regardless of where you may be deploying, you should start by checking for any such information available through your own and the next higher support elements in your chain of command.  Check the appropriate Disease Vector Ecology Profile (DVEP) to help you determine what diseases you may be exposed to while you’re deployed, as well as your risk.  If you are serving as a member of the DoD or Federal government, you may also want to access the National Center for Medical Intelligence (NCMI) webpage or use their complete contact information. If you don't have .mil or .gov e-mail access, call their 24-Hour Service/Request for Information number (301-619-7574), validate your need and submit your request.  General recommendations are provided in Technical Guide 36: Personal Protective Measures Against Insects and Other Arthropods of Military Significance.
 
The following PPE items are often ordered by units before deployments and field exercises in areas with potential vector-borne disease transmission or nuisance biting insects:
  1. There are 3 possibilities for Permethrin Clothing Applications:  1) Insect Repellent, Clothing Application, Permethrin, IDA Kit (“Shake and Bake kits”), 12 kits per box; 2) Insect Repellent, clothing application, 40% permethrin, liquid (2-Gal sprayer), 12 bottles per box; 3)  Insect Repellent, clothing application, aerosol (Permethrin Arthropod Repellent), 12 cans per box.  None of these may be applied to Permethrin Factory Treated Uniforms – e.g., FR-ACU-P, or MCCUU.  Only the aerosol can be reapplied.
  2. Ultrathon® Deet (to be used in accordance with the DoD Repellent System)
  3. Insect Fly Catcher, P/N 442, or M510 or Revenge Fly Catchers, 144 sticky paper strip rolls per box
  4. Insect Repellent, personal application & sunscreen, 20% DEET/SPF15 (Sunset) 
  5. Bed net, Pop-up, self-supporting low profile bed net (SSLPB). 
 
[The NSNs for these items can be found in the DoD Pest Management Material List (Other than pesticides)].