DA Form 7452-9-R: Shielding Subsystem Checklist (LRA)

DA Form 7452-9-R: Shielding Subsystem Checklist (LRA) – U.S. Army facilities, particularly Command, Control, Communications, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) installations, require robust electromagnetic shielding to protect sensitive electronics from interference, ensure TEMPEST compliance, and maintain operational security. DA Form 7452-9-R, titled Shielding Subsystem Checklist for Existing Facilities (LRA), is a key tool for inspectors and maintenance teams.

What Is DA Form 7452-9-R?

DA Form 7452-9-R (February 2002) is a standardized Department of the Army checklist used to evaluate the condition and effectiveness of the shielding subsystem in existing C4ISR and related facilities. It falls under the guidance of TM 5-690, Grounding and Bonding in Command, Control, Communications, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) Facilities.

LRA stands for Locally Reproduced Artwork, indicating the form can be reproduced locally as needed. It is part of a series of DA Forms (7452 series) that address various grounding, bonding, and protection subsystems for both new and existing facilities.

Download the Official Form Here:
DA Form 7452-9-R PDF

Purpose of the Shielding Subsystem Checklist

The primary goal of this form is to systematically inspect and document the integrity of electromagnetic shielding in older or existing facilities. Proper shielding:

  • Reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI).
  • Supports TEMPEST requirements to prevent compromising emanations.
  • Protects against electromagnetic pulse (EMP) effects.
  • Ensures bonding and grounding of shields, doors, penetrations, and cables maintain effectiveness.

Without effective shielding and proper bonding, external signals can disrupt sensitive equipment, or internal emissions could be intercepted. This checklist helps identify deficiencies before they impact mission-critical operations.

Key Sections of DA Form 7452-9-R

The form is designed for straightforward field use by inspectors. Main elements include:

  1. Facility Identification: Facility name, date (YYYYMMDD), location, and inspector name.
  2. Visual Inspection of Shield Network: Check for proper grounding and signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness.
  3. Shielding on Openings and Surfaces: Inspect doors, windows, ventilation ports, visual access openings, and walls for proper installation and bonding. Record location and deficiencies.
  4. Utility Lines, Conductors, and Cables:
    • Proper bonding to the shield at point of entrance.
    • Electrical grounded and grounding conductors in the same conduit as phase conductors.
    • Filters and conductors enclosed in metal (steel) cases/conduits.
    • All metal objects, cases, and conduits bonded to ground.
    • Data cables properly bonded to the signal ground reference system.
  5. Stray Currents: Measure stray currents on ground circuits.
  6. Bond Resistances: Measure and record bond circuit resistances at various locations.

The form includes YES/NO checkboxes for deficiencies and space for current measurements and notes. A sample completed version appears in TM 5-690, Chapter 6.

Who Uses This Form?

  • U.S. Army electrical inspectors and facility engineers.
  • Maintenance personnel at C4ISR sites, command centers, and secure installations.
  • Contractors performing upgrades or compliance audits on Army facilities.
  • Teams responsible for EMI/EMP hardening and TEMPEST compliance.

It is part of the broader performance evaluation and maintenance program outlined in TM 5-690 for existing facilities.

Best Practices for Using DA Form 7452-9-R

  • Conduct Regular Inspections: Integrate into routine maintenance schedules, especially after modifications, storms, or equipment upgrades.
  • Document Thoroughly: Record exact locations of deficiencies for targeted repairs.
  • Measure Accurately: Use calibrated equipment for bond resistance and stray current measurements.
  • Address Findings Promptly: Prioritize fixes that could compromise shielding effectiveness.
  • Coordinate with Related Forms: Use alongside other 7452-series forms (e.g., earth electrode, signal ground reference, lightning protection) for a complete grounding and bonding assessment.

Pro Tip: Always reference the latest version of TM 5-690 for detailed procedures, as it provides context, figures, and acceptance criteria.

Why Shielding Matters in Modern Army Facilities?

C4ISR systems process vast amounts of sensitive data in environments with high electromagnetic activity. Effective shielding subsystems:

  • Maintain signal integrity.
  • Protect against intentional or unintentional jamming.
  • Support compliance with national security standards.
  • Enhance overall facility resilience.

For existing buildings not originally designed to current standards, periodic use of DA Form 7452-9-R is essential for identifying upgrade opportunities.

  • TM 5-690 (Primary Reference): Full technical manual on grounding and bonding for C4ISR facilities.
  • Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil) for all DA Forms.
  • Additional checklists in the 7452 series for comprehensive facility evaluations.

Stay Compliant and Mission-Ready
Regular use of DA Form 7452-9-R helps ensure your facility’s shielding subsystem performs as required. Download the form today and incorporate it into your maintenance program.