What is Blast Overpressure?
Blast overpressure (BOP) is defined as the sharp, instantaneous rise above ambient atmospheric pressure resulting from an explosive detonation or the firing of weapon systems. Weapon systems known to produce BOP exposures include, but are not limited to, breaching charges, howitzers, mortars, shoulder-fired weapons and 0.50-caliber rifles and guns.
Why is BOP a concern?
DOD personnel may be exposed to BOP in training and operational environments. The degree of BOP exposure depends on factors such as operator position, posture, number of rounds fired and stand-off distances.
Brain effects from BOP are not yet fully understood; however, exposure to BOP may impact brain health and cognitive performance. Individuals with acute (single or short-term) and chronic (repetitive or continuous) exposure to BOP may experience headache, decreased reaction time, attention difficulty and memory loss.
What is being done to reduce BOP exposure?
In August 2024, the Deputy Secretary of Defense published the
Department of Defense Requirements for Managing Brain Health Risks from Blast Overpressure
, which requires DOD components to implement procedures and standards to reduce BOP exposure from weapon systems and breaching charges in training and operational environments.
DHA Public Health Resources for BOP Exposure
To request assistance, please submit a request to the DHA Operations Center. Please visit
Contact Us for more details.
Additional Resources
DoD Blast Overpressure Reference and Information Guide (CAC required)
