RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Base officials have recently observed numerous instances of people doing physical training on areas not designated as jogging paths, while continuing to use headphones or other listening devices.
Air Force Instruction 10-248, the fitness program AFI, dictates it is against base policy to jog, bicycle or perform any exercise function on Randolph roads while wearing headphones and earpieces.
The 12th Flying Training Wing leadership wants to reiterate that message after witnessing several instances where protocol was not followed. Use of these devices can impair driving and mask or prevent recognition of emergency signals, alarms, approaching vehicles and talking, thereby causing a safety hazard for those who use them.
The most common problem at Randolph involves people exercising while wearing audio earpieces with radios, MP3 players or compact disc players as they carry out physical training. They are allowed to use these devices when they exercise, but only on designated jogging paths and other areas not in a traffic environment.
"People can wear earpieces and similar devices as long as they are on designated jogging paths," Linda Howlett, 12th FTW Ground Safety manager, said. "Many of the violations occur as joggers cross the active taxiway at the South crossover. Joggers are required to remove their headset or earphones prior to crossing the south crossover. "
Further safety concerns involve the improper use or no use at all of reflective clothing. When bicycling, jogging or running at night and in times of inclement weather or low visibility, individuals are required to wear retroreflective clothing or devices visible from the front and back.
"Losing or injuring just one Airman due to a preventable accident can negatively affect our mission," said Col. Jacqueline Van Ovost, 12th Flying Training Wing commander.
Air Force Instruction 91-207, the USAF Traffic Safety Program, contains specific language regarding what is and isn't considered "safe" on installations as a whole.
Policy for this base is listed in the Randolph Air Force Base Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, commonly referred to as the base traffic code. That supplement contains regulations for marching troops, bicyclists, operators of non-motorized vehicles and anyone who uses base roads.
"Following our local guidance is essential to maintaining the safety of ourselves and our loved ones," Colonel Van Ovost said.
The biggest present concern deals with joggers who use headphones and earpieces. Regulations dealing with drivers of privately-owned cars, trucks or any motorized vehicle on base streets also prohibit use headphones or earpieces.
"It's a safety issue," said Ms. Howlett. "The earphones limit the ability to hear other things around them and it is dangerous."
Two exceptions when listening devices are acceptable during driving include intercom systems used by motorcycle operators and hands free cellular telephone devices. Cyclists often use intercom systems to communicate with passengers and hand-free technology has become a popular, safer alternative for vehicle operators who choose to make or receive calls.
"Each individual needs to be cognizant of the safety requirements and have the discipline to adhere to them every time," Colonel Van Ovost said.
Editor's note: The list of directives here is by no means complete and persons wishing to understand everything on the subject should consult AFI 36-2903, Dress and personal appearance of AF Personnel.