ICML: International Council for Machinery Lubrication

What Is ICML?

ICML stands for the International Council for Machinery Lubrication.

It is an independent organisation focused on improving machinery lubrication and oil analysis through professional certification, standards and best practices.

ICML provides internationally recognised certification programmes for professionals working in machinery lubrication, oil analysis and related reliability disciplines.

Why Is ICML Important?

Lubrication is a specialised discipline. Correct lubricant selection and application require more than simply knowing how to apply oil or grease.

ICML helps organisations establish and recognise the competence of personnel responsible for lubrication and oil analysis activities.

Certification can help demonstrate that technicians and professionals have the knowledge required to perform lubrication-related tasks according to recognised industry practices.

This is particularly relevant for organisations developing a structured Lubrication Reliability™ Strategy.

ICML Certification

ICML offers certification in several areas, including:

• Machinery Lubrication Technician (MLT)
• Machinery Lubrication Engineer (MLE)
• Machine Lubricant Analyst (MLA)
• Oil Monitoring Analyst (OMA)

The certification levels are designed for different responsibilities, from practical lubrication tasks through to engineering, analysis and programme management.

Certification requirements depend on the specific programme and level.

ICML and ISO Standards

ICML certification programmes are aligned with recognised international practices and reference standards, including relevant ISO standards for machinery lubrication and condition monitoring.

This helps organisations establish a common framework for:

• lubrication practices;
• contamination control;
• lubricant storage and handling;
• oil analysis;
• condition monitoring;
• technician competency.

ICML and Lubrication Reliability™

At Lubretec, we consider people and competency an essential part of Lubrication Reliability™.

The right equipment and procedures are only effective when the people using them understand why, when and how they should be applied.

ICML certification can therefore form part of an organisation's competency development strategy.

Reliable lubrication requires reliable processes — and competent people to execute them.

In Summary

ICML = International Council for Machinery Lubrication

It provides a recognised framework for developing and certifying professional competence in machinery lubrication and oil analysis.

For organisations pursuing Lubrication Reliability™ and World Class Maintenance, ICML certification can be a valuable way to strengthen lubrication knowledge, competency and professional standards.