An explosive with a fragment hazard is denoted as what marking in the U.S. Military Marking System?

• A. #2 in an X.
• B. #4 in an X.
• C. #3 in an X.
• D. #4 in a circle.

Answer: (A)

Fragment hazard in the U.S. Military Marking System is signaled by an X-shaped mark with a numeral inside. The X marks that, if the item detonates, fragments can be produced and travel outward, creating a risk to anyone nearby. The numeral inside the X identifies the specific fragmentation hazard level according to the standard system, helping responders quickly assess the danger and choose appropriate safety measures. This marking is distinct from other hazard indicators that use different shapes or different numerals to denote other types of hazards. In practice, spotting this X-within numeral mark means treat the item as capable of producing dangerous fragments and follow established EOD or hazmat safety procedures.