Combat Vehicle (CV) Accidents in Field Training Exercises (FTXs)

Abstract

Abstract : The U.S. Army Safety Center (USASC) has undertaken a comprehensive program of technical studies to develop effective procedures for reducing accidents/injuries and improving accident prevention. Included in this effort is an in-depth analysis of combat vehicle (CV) accident occurring during field training exercises (FTXs) Army CVs are defined as tactical tracked vehicles such as tanks, armored personnel carriers, and self-propelled artillery. Successful accident prevention programs depend upon comprehensive accident reporting procedures. These procedures are specified in Army Regulation, AR 385-40, which requires that an accident report (DA Form 285) be submitted to higher command authority and the USASC by the unit responsible for the vehicle involved and/or the personnel injured. This report provides data required by the Department of Defense, Department of Labor, and the Army for statistical and accident prevention purposes. Each year, certain accidents are subject to in-depth investigation by Army installation safety office personnel. Investigation findings and suggested remedial measures are recorded on DA Form 285-1. The in-depth investigation is designed to identify the causal factors and system inadequacies which caused or contributed to the accident. Submission of the approved DA Forms 285 and 285-1 to the USASC completes the accident reporting process.