Lubrication is a vital component in the maintenance and longevity of mechanical assets, yet it is often overlooked or misunderstood. With an estimated 70% of mechanical failures directly or indirectly related to lubrication practice, the International Council for Machinery Lubrication (ICML) has developed a set of standards aimed at promoting best practices in lubrication and asset management. Despite being an engineered component, lubricants are frequently not treated as assets. Many people mistakenly believe that "oil is oil" and "grease is grease," leading to suboptimal lubrication practices and mechanical failures. Proper understanding and management of lubrication can significantly extend the life of machinery, reduce energy consumption, and minimize environmental impact. The ICML has developed a set of standards with 12 core elements that provide guidelines for best practices in lubrication programs. These standards are designed to be both standalone and complementary to existing ISO standards, including ISO 9000, ISO 14000, and ISO 55000. The ICML standards cover essential aspects of asset management, including document management, environmental impact, and the use of tangible assets like lubricants. https://lubrication.expert