Fitness assessment schedule effective April 1 Published March 24, 2015 By Barbara Cook 66th Force Support Squadron HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The 66th Force Support Squadron Fitness Assessment Cell has issued guidance on how fitness assessments will be conducted during spring, summer, and fall weather conditions here, in accordance with Air Force Instruction 36-2905. Like during the winter months, the weather can be harsh in New England and inclement weather should be the last thing on an Airman's mind when taking a fitness assessment, FSS officials said. Appropriate weather agencies will be consulted to determine what environmental conditions exist before determining if assessments should remain outside or be conducted indoors on the Fitness Center track. The physical fitness assessment schedule begins April 1 and will continue through Nov. 1. Assessments will take place Monday through Thursday at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and at 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. as needed. Eight testing slots are available per session. No testing will take place the last week of the month. All official tests will be performed during scheduled FAC times. Emergency testing will be determined on a case-by-case basis. No indoor track assessments will be conducted unless there is inclement weather as defined in the instruction. The winter fitness assessment schedule will resume in November. Environmental conditions for testing outside: · Wind Speed: Maximum wind allowed is less than or equal to 15 mph sustained, or less than or equal to 20 mph gusting. · Rain: No significant rain. If assessing on a wet day, rain, mist or heavy dew, the temperature must be greater than 34 degrees Fahrenheit, including wind chill. This guidance supersedes previous guidelines. · Heat Stress: Wet Bulb Globe Temperature must be less than 86 degrees Fahrenheit at the start of the one and a half mile run, or one mile walk. This guidance supersedes previous guidelines. · Cold Stress: Air temperature must be greater than or equal to 20 Fahrenheit with wind less than or equal to 15 mph sustained, less than or equal to 20 mph gusting. This guidance supersedes previous guidelines. · Snow: no snow accumulation on the running surface. · Ice: no ice on the running surface that cannot be easily observed and avoided. · Water: No standing water that a large group cannot easily avoid on the running surface. · Mud: No mud on the running surface that cannot be easily avoided. · Hail: No hail forecasted or reported within 25 miles. For any questions or concerns about fitness assessments, contact the Fitness Assessment Cell Staff at 781-225-6634 or 6630.