Welcome
The top priority of the the Installation Safety Office is to safeguard and protect service members, their families, civilian employees and DoD property, as well as to create the safest workplace and living environment possible. Safety Office professionals advise, audit and assist commanders and managers in executing their safety and occupational health program in order to protect the mission, prevent injury and damage, comply with the law, and limit liability. The safety office also manages the installation Army Traffic Safety Training Program and Motorcycle Safety Training).
Mission
To facilitate a safe working and living environment in support of the Fort Belvoir mission.
Functions
Motorcycle access to the post:
All Service Members who operate a motorcycle and/or scooter are required to present a valid Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) card and their CAC card to Security Guards at the gate when entering the installation. Service Members arriving for motorcycle training should explain this to the Security Guard.
All motorcycle riders are required to wear long pants, long sleeves, full fingered gloves, eye protection, ankle covers. Retroreflective vest/belt is not a requirement, but it will help "cagers" see you!
Personnel Accident Reporting Documents
The following forms are available below to report accidents or injuries that occur in the workplace.
FORM CA-16 Authorization for Examination And/Or Treatment
Accidents
Construction Contractors
Resources/Safety Flyers
Safety Flyers
- HalloweenSafety.pdf
- Halloween Safety
- Back-to-School Safety Tips
- Fireworks Safety Tips
- Heat Safety
- Don't Drown, Turn Around
- Bicycle Helmet Safety
- Water Sports Safety
Motorcycle Training
Army Traffic Safety Training Program
Find out what training courses are being offered at Fort Belvoir and self-register online. To view available courses, click here: U.S. Army IMCOM Traffic Safety Training Program . ( https://imc.army.mil/airs ) Must be on a DOD LAN, using an Army CAC card to view this site. All others, please phone us (703) 806-3447
Fort Belvoir offers Motorcycle Safety Foundation training for all Service Members that work or sleep on Fort Belvoir.
If you want to learn to ride, attend Basic Riders Course on our training motorcycles and earn a BRC MSF card. This card will get you the Motorcycle Endorsement on your civilian driver license (in most States). If you end up buying a motorcycle, DoD requires you to attend an advanced class within a year of BRC.
After BRC, the motorcycle owner shall attend the advanced class ( BRC2, ERC, ARC, MSRC ) within 12 months. If you don't buy a bike and attend the advanced class within 12 months, then re-take the BRC course. Skills are perishable. In Virginia, the DMV will add the M to your license only if you get to the DMV within 359 days.
Recurring Training: Every 5 years, the motorcycle owner shall attend an advanced class. Owners are encouraged to attend more frequently.
Fort Belvoir, VA 22060
(last building on the street, 1 story brick building)
FAQ about Fort Belvoir Virginia Motorcyle Safety Training:
FAQ Motorcycle Training Fort Belvoir Safety Office
Frequently Asked Questions about the Army Traffic Safety Training Program and licensing of MC riders at Fort Belvoir Virginia
Abbreviations key:
MC = motorcycle
BRC = Basic Rider Course
ERC = Experienced Rider Course, AKA: BRC2
MSRC = Military Sportbike Riders Course
DL = driver’s license
ADSM = Active Duty Service Member
Q: What are the rules for ADSM who want to ride a motorcycle?
A: DODI 6055.04; Army Regulation 385-10. ADSM must attend BRC before operating a MC. ADSM who continue to ride must then attend ERC within a year. ADSM who ride a sport bike must also attend MSRC.
Q: What about annual or recurring MC training?
A: After completing ERC and/or MSRC, ADSM shall re attend either class every 5 years. FIVE years. May attend more frequently.
Q: I am in the Guard or Reserve; can I attend your MC training?
A: Yes. This training is duty time, so coordinate that issue with your supervisor. On training day, be sure to bring your valid military ID and the form you use to get paid.
Q: Do you train Airmen, Sailors, Marines, Coasties, Space Forces?
A: Yes, we make this training available to all who are associated with Fort Belvoir. We understand that many Fort Belvoir housing residents come from all Services and probably work at a different military base.
Q: Do you train foreign armed forces?
A: If the DoD requires you to attend MC training so you can ride your POV MC, you may attend our free courses.
Q: Do you train dependents, retirees, civil service employees?
A: No, unless you ride a MC in performance of your government duties. Several commercial companies offer MC training downtown.
Q: I am a dependent, retiree, civil service, contractor. Do I need a MSF card? Do I need a retroreflective vest?
A: No. No.
Q: Returning from TDY, can I ride my MC immediately?
A: Soldiers returning from a 179+ day TDY must obtain refresher training from supervisor. Training materials are on the US Army Safety Center webpage
Q: Where is the MC training site on Fort Belvoir?
A: Behind the TMP Motorpool on 16th Street. Take Gunston Road or Belvoir Road south, turn at 16th Street. Turn again at the water tower and drive alongside the TMP bus parking. The Motorcycle Training Center is a 1 story building with a long handicap ramp out front, and a big back porch. The MTC was formerly a swimming pool house. Building is located on Middleton Road between 16th Street and 18th Street. Google Map it and zoom in: Behind 5915 16th Street, Fort Belvoir VA 22060.
Q: What time does MC training begin?
A: 0645. At 7 am we give away your seat and lock the door. Do not be late. We start early so we can end early and avoid the worst of the traffic.
Q: What if I missed the class?
A: No-show students hurt Soldiers and fellow ADSM from other services. All of our classes are booked solid - if you call the Safety Office today and ask for training, you can expect a training date in about a month. The Safety Office will keep adding class dates until we meet the demand. When a service member does not show up for training, this person has wasted a slot. It matters not if the person had a good excuse - the slot is gone and other service members are still waiting a month for training. IF YOU DO NOT SHOW UP FOR CLASS, YOUR “NO SHOW” IS PERMANENTLY RECORDED IN THE AIRS DATABASE. IMCOM is exploring methods to obtain reimbursement for wasted training slots.
Q: Do you train 3 wheelers?
A: No. Exception: We will accept students on a Piaggo scooter
Q: Is a MSF card required for ADSM to ride a 3 wheeler?
A: DoD/Army does not require MSF training to ride a 3 wheeler. Army does not offer 3-wheeled motorcycle training. Virginia-licensed operators can earn any of four MC endorsements to be added to their VA DL.
Q: My supervisor wants me to be on leave to take the MC training.
A: Leave cannot be charged (ref: DODI 6055.04)
Q: My current State DL does not have a MC endorsement on it, but I have an old license with MC on it. Can I attend ERC and skip BRC?
A: No. You must be licensed by a State to ride a MC. You must have a valid DL with MC endorsement on it to attend ERC
Q: I have a driver license from (insert State here). May I attend your BRC?
A: Yes, and you will be compliant with DoD standards.
However....
Maryland, New Jersey, and Alaska have protectionist policies in place. These States enjoy receiving federal dollars, but these States will not honor your military-funded MSF training conducted in Virginia. To get a MC endorsement you will still need to go to that State and attend BRC there (and pay the $$$ fee to that State or school). These States do not acknowledge or recognize MSF cards from Department of Defense military installations located in Virginia (the MSF training is all the same). Some States require you to present your MSF card in person (Alaska). If I am an Alaska resident stationed in Florida, why do I need to travel back to AK just to add MC to my license? You should speak to your elected representatives about these topics.
Q: I ride a scooter. More than 49 cc. Might have an automatic transmission. Can I use my scooter to attend BRC? ( Example: I have injuries and cannot shift a MC with my foot)
A: Yes, but your BRC card will be stamped (branded) “SCOOTER ONLY”. When you attend ERC in a year, you must bring your scooter with you. You are limited to riding scooters only. If you wish to ride a shifter motorcycle, you must reattend BRC and use a shifter bike. Most students attend BRC and use our loaner shifter bikes, and earn a BRC card. You can still operate your scooter on a “regular” MSF card.
Q: Can I take BRC and use my motorcycle for the class?
A: No. Our course is a Virginia-approved motorcycle-licensing course, and as part of that, all students shall be on training bikes. Our loaners are owned by the contractor (not government property). The course is set up for our small 250cc MC, not your cruiser.
Q; Can I take BRC on a moped (49 cc)?
A: No, and you do not need a MSF card to ride a moped on or off post. (Code of Virginia)
Q: Do I need a retroreflective safety vest or belt to ride a motorcycle on post?
A: No.
Q: What do I bring to BRC class?
A: Military ID, boots, civilian long pants and sleeves. Long finger gloves if you have them. Sunscreen, snacks for the instructor, rain gear if needed. We train BRC and ERC in the rain.
Q: I need a replacement MSF card, because I lost it/washed it about 5 years ago and I need it to attend ERC.
A: For Army purposes, your BRC card is only good for a year. Your Advanced MSF card is only good for 5 years. If you are due for training, attend training and get a new card. We maintain Army-wide records of MSF training attendance, so we can probably look you up in “AIRS”. You might not need your BRC card to attend ERC - we can look up your training date in AIRS.
Q: I earned a MSF card 366 days ago, and the DMV will not accept it, will not give me a MC endorsement. Now what?
A: Go back to class. To get a MC endorsement on your Virginia DL, you must present your BRC training card to the DMV within a year.
Q: How do I earn a motorcycle endorsement on my Virginia driver license?
A: Attend our BRC class and take the card to the DMV within 364 days.
Q: I cannot access the signup page. https://imc.army.mil/airs
A: Call Fort Belvoir Safety at (703) 806-3447. To use the AIRS site, you need a dot.mil domain and an Army CAC card.
Q: I am a unit Motorcycle Mentor for my organization. What support do you provide?
A: The Motorcycle Training Center is available for your use to launch group rides, conduct vehicle inspections, and safety meetings. The Fort Belvoir Safety Office conducts Motorcycle Mentorship Program meetings in March, July, and October of each year. We can also help you set up your MMP program. In the spring, the Safety Office conducts Fort Belvoir Safety Day, which includes motorcycle safety demonstrations and new equipment displays. The Army Safety Center has a lot of good information on how to set up a MMP for your unit.
Q: How does the Motorcycle Mentorship Program work?
A: Each Soldier who rides a motorcycle can benefit from the MMP. Operating a motorcycle is a unique skill with sub-specialties that require frequent refresher training and upgrade training. Every Soldier that intends to rent, purchase, or ride a motorcycle shall attend Basic Rider Course, then Experienced Rider Course within a year (if you own a bike and are still riding). Sport bike and sport touring bike owners shall also attend the Military Sportbike Riders Course (MSRC). Non-riders are welcome to attend BRC for familiarization training.
Each military unit shall have a Motorcycle Mentor (MM) (or have access to another Unit’s MM), and the MM shall register with the Fort Belvoir Installation Safety Office (703) 806-3447. The unit must maintain a roster of riders and their training accomplishments. Unit MM will organize vehicle inspections, safety briefings, and group mentoring rides. Group rides and peer training sessions are cornerstones of the Army motorcycle safety program. More information is available from the US Army Safety Center MMP page.
Q: I am a RiderCoach ADSM. I need to maintain training proficiency and co-teach two classes each year. Can I co-coach a MSF class at Fort Belvoir?
A: No. This is not included in the current IMCOM contract. Andrews AFB Wing Safety conducts BRC2/ERC using Airmen as instructors - call Andrews about co-coaching a BRC2. Andrews does not teach BRC at all, because Maryland does not honor military motorcycle training.
Q: I am a RiderCoach. Can I borrow your Range and teach MSF classes?
A: No. We use the range about 19 days per month for ATSTP motorcycle training.
Q: How many students do you train per year?
A: About 500, using a class size of 6 for BRC. If warranted, we have the ability to ramp up training to 12 student BRC classes and increase output by 50-75%.
Q: What is a Sport Bike, and am I required to attend Military Sportbike Riders Course (MSRC)? A: MSRC is a unique training product offered by the DoD. The course is highly valued by those who have attended. If you ride a sport bike or sport touring bike, you must attend MSRC class in addition to the BRC and ERC. Must attend refresher training every 5 years, more often if you like. A sport bike or sport touring bike is a high performance machine. Manufacturers usually categorize their products to indicate the intended use.
VIRGINIA MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT RULES (note: The Polaris Slingshot is not discussed here, as you only need a car driver license to ride a Slingshot)
VIRGINIA HAS FOUR WAYS TO MARK YOUR VIRGINIA DRIVER LICENSE FOR MOTORCYCLES:
1. “M” = May operate a 2 or 3 wheeled motorcycle
2. “M2” = May operate a 2 wheeled motorcycle. Cannot operate a 3 wheeled motorcycle.
3. “M3” = May operate a 3 wheeled motorcycle. Cannot operate a 2 wheel motorcycle.
4. If you have a “6” on your license under “Restriction”, you are not authorized to drive a car. End of discussion.
Q: What is a Polaris Slingshot?
A: A Slingshot is a 3 wheeled vehicle that you sit IN. Not on. Has a steering wheel, clutch, brake pedal, fly-by-wire gas pedal, automotive seat and 3 point seatbelt, car turn signals and horn. Occupant legs and torso are enclosed by the bodywork of the vehicle. The Slingshot is powered by a standard-issue 4 cyl Chevrolet Ecotec aluminum engine and car transmission. You do not use your body weight to steer; do not have individual controls for front and rear brakes. Virginia (and many States) are defining this vehicle as an “autocycle”. Virginia does not require a motorcycle endorsement, just a car driver license. Virginia issues motorcycle plates for the Slingshot. Slingshots with a windshield and roof do not need a helmet on the occupants, according to Code of Virginia 46.2-910. http://www.polaris.com/en-us/slingshot
Q: What is a Tanom Motors Reverse Trike?
A: A 3 wheeled vehicle you sit IN, not on. An autocycle in Virginia. Some Tanom vehicles have a windshield and roof, and Virginia does not require a helmet in this configuration. http://www.tanommotors.com
Q: What is a Can-Am Spyder?
A: A 3 wheeled vehicle you sit ON. Virginia owners need a 3 wheeled endorsement on their driver license (“M” or “M3”). Helmet required.
Q: Do you train Coast Guardsmen?
A: http://allhands.coastguard.dodlive.mil/2015/05/11/motorcycle-safety-training-what-you-need-to-know/ The USGC will reimburse you if you take the course at your local commercial training establishment.
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DEFINITION OF A SPORT BIKE
Although the motorcycle industry has not adopted a definition of “Sport Bike,” motorcycles commonly called Sport Bikes typically have all or most of the following characteristics:
• are categorized/marketed by the manufacturer as a “sport bike”
• are styled and constructed in the manner of recent/current road-racing motorcycles
• are built with optimum performance, power and handling in mind
• have a high power-to-weight ratio for superior acceleration
• are lightweight and nimble, through strength/weight calculation and more extensive use of materials such as aluminum, plastic, magnesium and carbon fiber
• have slim dimensions, streamlined fairings and bodywork that covers the engine
• designed to put the rider in a forward-canted position to provide optimum front-to-back weight distribution and improve aerodynamics
• have rear-positioned footrests, generally set higher for more cornering clearance
• have high-grade tires for superior grip and handling on twisty roads and racetracks, and are rated for high speeds
• feature the latest in chassis, suspension and braking technology
Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT)
Fort Belvoir Wet Bult Globe Temperature (WGBT)
Today's WBGT: 79 (°F)
Current as of: 9/11/2020 1200
The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature is a measure of heat stress in direct sunlight which takes into account the temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover (solar radiation).
Please view the current WBGT above, and then use the WBGT and associated charts and other information on this page to aid in managing the work/rest cycles and fluid intake of personnel at Fort Belvoir.
CAUTION: Hourly fluid intake should not exceed 1.5 quarts. Daily fluid intake should not exceed 12 quarts.
- The work-rest times and fluid replacement volumes will sustain performance and hydration for at least 4 hours of work in the specified heat category. Fluid needs can vary based on individual differences. (plus or minus .25 quart per hour) and exposure to full sun or full shade (plus or minus .25 quart per hour).
- NL = No limit to work time per hour.
- Rest means minimal physical activity (sitting or standing), accomplished in shade if possible.
- CAUTION: Hourly fluid intake should not exceed 1.5 quarts.
- If wearing body armor add 5°F to WBGT in humid climates.
- If wearing NBC clothing (MOPP 4) add 10°F to WBGT.
NOTE: Wearing of body armour or NBC uniform adds approximately 10 points to the measured WBGT index. Exposure limits should be adjusted accordingly.