ICML 55® Series
International Council for Machinery Lubrication

As the world-class authority on machinery lubrication that advances the optimization of asset reliability, utilization and costs ICML introduced lubrication-specific standards in 2019 that spell out requirements and guidelines for effective, audit-ready, certifiable management of lubricated mechanical assets. Collectively known as ICML 55, these standards are strategically aligned to ISO 55000 and are intended to support an organization’s physical asset management plans.

ICML 55.0 Standard - Optimized Lubrication of Mechanical Physical Assets Overview
When it comes to mechanical equipment, best practice maintenance organizations have long recognized the positive effect that an engineered and well-balanced lubrication management program can have on asset reliability, availability, maintainability, throughput (work), quality, safety, energy reduction, carbon footprint reduction (sustainability), and cost/profits.

The purpose of this ICML 55.0: 2023 International Standard is to provide an overview of a lubrication management system and processes applicable to the effective management of physical assets related to lubrication; its principles, and terminology. It also provides the context for ICML 55.1 (Audit requirements) and the ICML 55.2 Guideline for the Optimized Lubrication of Physical Assets.

ICML 55.1 Standard - Requirements for the Optimized Lubrication of Mechanical Physical Assets
Co-authored by an international team of 45 technical contributors, this standard offers a detailed, practical overview of lubrication management systems and processes applicable tothe effective management of physical assets related to lubrication.

With a comprehensive look at twelve interrelated areas of a sustainable, world-class lubrication program plan, ICML 55.1 is written as an enabling standard in support of physical asset management in accordance with ISO 55001.

The adoption of ICML 55.1 requirements, as augmented by ICML 55.2 guidelines, will enable an organization to achieve its objectives of effectively and efficiently managing its physical  lubrication and lubricant asset policies, strategies, and plans.


ICML 55.2 Standard - Guideline for the Optimized Lubrication of Mechanical Physical Assets
ICML 55.2 takes an in-depth look at the twelve Auditable Elements outlined in ICML 55.1, to illustrate the value of each element, and provide the reader with many “how to” examples. Included are many punch lists of typical requirements an auditor would look for to prove compliance readiness for certification purposes. Even if program certification is not the goal, ICML 55.2 can be used as a practical “blueprint” manual for implementing a best practice lubrication management system, as well as a reference and study guide for many of the individual certifications offered by the ICML. 

ICML 55.2 is intended for use in association with ICML 55.0, Optimized Lubrication of Mechanical Physical Assets Overview and ICML 55.1, Requirements for the Optimized Lubrication of Mechanical Physical Assets.