COMPILED BY THE RISK MANAGEMENT STAFF

Operating in cold weather presents many challenges for Soldiers and their leaders. Things as simple as preventing drinking water from freezing in the field and protecting Soldiers from cold weather injuries are extremely trying in harsh winter conditions. But what about your equipment? Are there different procedures for operations in the cold? You bet!

It’s important to remember there are hazards associated with equipment maintenance in the cold. The operator’s manual for any piece of Army equipment has specific procedures to follow for cold weather operations. Soldiers should follow these procedures and allow time for vehicles and other equipment to warm to an adequate operating temperature. When we roll out of our sleeping bags on a cold morning, it takes us standing around the stove and a few cups of coffee to get started. The same principle holds true for equipment.

The systems are now up and running and ready to go, right? Wrong! Now is the time to focus on the mechanical systems. Transmissions, gearboxes and even tires need to be warm to give 100 percent. Transmissions and gearboxes are lubricated by either oil or grease. Both of these lubricants are affected by temperature and tend to thicken in cold weather. Thicker fluid means higher pressure on seals. In maintenance lingo, that means lots of blown seals. Tires also are affected by the cold and sometimes lose air pressure.

Let’s now talk about our most important resource: people. Getting Soldiers to work in cold climates can be a challenge, but it’s also a very big responsibility. Take an active role in caring for your Soldiers. Small things like hot coffee and soup go a long way. Also make sure your Soldiers are dressed for the environment.

There are numerous opportunities for mission failure in cold weather due to equipment damage. The bottom line is leaders are responsible for their equipment and Soldiers. Use risk management and other tools to keep your unit from becoming a statistic. Think of it this way: By doing little things like taking care of your equipment, your Soldiers won’t have to be out in the cold repairing something because someone else didn’t adhere to the standard. Stay warm and stay safe!