What is a key principle to remember when developing explosives safety guidelines?

The key principle in developing explosives safety guidelines is that service standards can be more restrictive than Department of Defense (DoD) standards but must never be less than those standards. This ensures that the safety measures in place are consistent with the highest level of safety mandated by DoD regulations, while still allowing individual services to enhance those measures based on their unique operational needs or specific risk assessments.

Adhering to this principle promotes a culture of safety that prioritizes the protection of personnel, equipment, and the environment. Each military service may encounter different operational conditions or hazards, thus having the flexibility to impose stricter guidelines is crucial for maintaining a higher safety threshold. By requiring service standards to meet or exceed the DoD standards, all personnel involved with explosives manage potential risks effectively and consistently across different branches. This approach not only harmonizes safety practices but also helps in preventing accidents and ensuring a standardized level of safety across all military operations.