ED Decision 2021/003/R
FOD DETECTION AND REMOVAL
(a) FOD detection
In addition to the standard inspections, personnel on the movement area need to employ a ‘clean-as-you-go’ technique, by looking for FOD during their regular duties.
When inspections occur at night, additional lights/lighting systems on vehicles are beneficial to better detect FOD.
Whenever possible, vehicles involved in FOD detection activities, are only driven on clean, paved surfaces. If a vehicle needs to be driven on unpaved surfaces, the driver needs to ensure that the vehicle’s tyres do not transport FOD (e.g. mud or loose stones) back onto the pavement.
Encouraging the participation of the personnel of other organisations such as air operators, groundhandling companies, air traffic services providers in inspections may reinforce the concept that FOD control is a team effort and demonstrates the aerodrome operator’s commitment to a FOD-free environment. This practice may help increase familiarity with local aerodrome conditions, and promotes effective communication between the aerodrome operator and its stakeholders.
(a) FOD removal
FOD may be removed either manually or by using mechanical equipment, such as sweepers, vacuum systems, jet air blowers, magnetic bars, FOD ‘sweeping carpets’, etc.
FOD containers need to be able to withstand strong winds and be of a ‘closed-type’ to prevent the wind from dislodging their content. Suggested locations for FOD containers are: near all entry points to the apron area, in hangars, aircraft maintenance areas, near aircraft stands and baggage areas. Clearly identified FOD storage locations increase the likelihood that collected debris will be deposited by personnel. Access to the FOD containers needs to be free by other objects.
Guidance on FOD detection and removal: use clean-as-you-go techniques, night lighting, and stakeholder involvement; manual or mechanical removal; secure, closed-type containers at key locations.
* Summary by Aviation.Bot - Always consult the original document for the most accurate information.
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