What is the responsibility of the RSO before granting clearance to fire?

The responsibility of the Range Safety Officer (RSO) before granting clearance to fire is to ensure that authorized ammunition and explosives are used. This is critical because the use of improper or unauthorized munitions can lead to several safety risks, including accidental discharge, unintentional explosions, and severe injuries. By verifying that only authorized materials are utilized, the RSO ensures compliance with safety regulations and mitigates the potential for dangerous incidents during training or operations. This responsibility is pivotal in maintaining a safe environment for all personnel involved in firing exercises.

Other tasks, such as checking weather conditions, reviewing previous firing logs, or confirming the presence of medical personnel, are important for overall safety but do not directly pertain to the authorization of the ammunition and explosives being used for firing. Thus, while these factors contribute to a comprehensive safety protocol, ensuring authorized ammunition is the specific focus of the clearance process.