U.S. Department

of Transportation

Federal Aviation

Administration

Advisory

Circular

Subject: DEBRIS HAZARDS AT CIVIL AIRPORTS Date: 7/5/96

Initiated by: AAS-100

AC No: 150/5380-5B

Change:

1. PURPOSE. This advisory circular (AC)

discusses problems of debris at airports, gives

information on foreign objects, and tells how to

eliminate such objects from operational areas. It

also addresses the acquisition of power sweepers

for foreign object damage/debris (FOD) control at

airports.

2. CANCELLATION. AC 150/5380-5A,

Debris Hazards at Civil Airports, dated 2/25/81, is

canceled.

3. APPLICATION. The material contained in

this AC is applicable for use in the operation of all

civil airports. On certificated airports, the

recommendations and guidelines may be used, as

appropriate, to satisfy the requirements of Federal

Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 139, Subpart D,

paragraphs 139.305(a)(4) and 139.307(a)(5).

4. RELATED READING MATERIAL.

a. AC 150/5200-18, Airport Safety SelfInspection, current edition.

b. AC 150/5200-30A, Airport Winter Safety

and Operations, current edition.

c. AC 150/5200-5A, Wildlife Attractants On

or Near Airports, current edition.

d. AC 150/5300-13, Airport Design, current

edition.

5. BACKGROUND.

a. Debris Hazards. FOD hazards on

airports are considered to be comparable to those

associated with birds and winter operations. Costs

to one major airline average $15,000 per aircraft,

which represents an industry cost of over $60

million per year. This is the equivalent of one new

medium-sized transport category jet. Tests and

experience have shown that foreign objects on

airport pavements can be readily ingested by

aircraft engines, resulting in engine failure. Debris

can also become lodged in mechanisms, affecting

the operation of landing gear, flaps, etc. These

hazards can be reduced, however, by the

establishment of an active FOD prevention

program. While snow and ice and wildlife are

significant causes of FOD, these concerns are

addressed by other ACs (see par. 4, Related

Reading Material) and are beyond the scope of this

document.

b. Typical Foreign Objects. Typical

foreign objects include the following: aircraft and

engine fasteners (nuts, bolts, washers, safety wire,

etc.); mechanics' tools; flight line metal (nails,

personnel badges, pens, pencils, etc.); stones and

sand; paving materials; pieces of wood; plastic

and/or polyethylene materials; paper products; and

ice formations in operational areas.

6. PREVENTIVE MEASURES. The following

information is intended to help in establishing

airport programs for preventing foreign object

damage. It is particularly applicable to airport

owners and operators, air carrier station managers,

and general aviation operators. Individuals in

these positions are expected to alert ramp crews,

maintenance technicians, and aircraft servicing

personnel to the safety hazards created by debris.

Procedures to eliminate FOD must address two

fundamental requirements: (a) the avoidance of

debris and (b) the removal of debris from

airport pavements. Consider the potential of all

airside activities in the cause of FOD. For

example, using ordinary surveyor's flags instead of

specially designed markers to mark edge lights for

snow removal may easily precipitate a FOD

situation. Advisory Circular 150/5200-30, Airport

Winter Safety and Operations, provides details on

recommended edge light markers.
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

2

a. Identifying Causes. The causes and

principal contributing factors to FOD at a specific

airport location must be determined before an

effective local prevention program can be

developed. For airport operations, airport

construction, and aircraft maintenance, one should

address potential problems with FOD as a result of

these activities and undertake preventive measures

for each.

b. Establishment of a FOD Awareness

Program. Each individual with access to an

airport operations area should understand his/her

role in prevention of FOD. A formal orientation

program familiarizing new employees with security

and communications procedures, vehicle

operations, etc. should include FOD awareness

training. Address in this training the hazards

associated with debris and tactics for FOD

prevention. A joint program with airport tenants,

including the establishment of a FOD prevention

committee, will help to broaden and sustain

awareness of the FOD problem.

(c) Establishment of a Maintenance

Program. Each activity on the airport should have

a FOD prevention program tailored to that

particular activity. Some suggestions are as

follows:

(1) Aircraft Maintenance. Account for

and dispose of nuts, bolts, washers, safety wire, etc.

Account for hand tools used in repair jobs. Aids in

the control of these items include checklists,

shadow boards, and cut out tool tray liners.

(2) Air Cargo. In an air cargo area,

there is a high potential for blowing debris such as

plastic cargo wrappers. Establish procedures to

contain such debris, possibly by installing fencing

where appropriate. Of course, FOD trapped by

such fences should be removed regularly.

(3) Construction. Establish specific

FOD prevention procedures for each construction

project. These procedures should be based on the

proximity of construction activities to operational

areas but in general should stress containment and

regular cleanup of construction debris.

(d) Inspections. Make inspections of

operational areas at least once each day, with

additional inspections being made in construction

areas and immediately after any aircraft or ground

vehicle accident or incident or any spill of material

which may cause slippery conditions. AC

150/5200-18 gives guidance in the performance of

airport inspections. Encouraging the participation

of airport tenants in inspections will reinforce the

concept that FOD prevention is a team effort and

demonstrate the airport operator's commitment to a

debris-free environment.

(e) Pavement Repair. Spalled or cracked

pavements, while structurally sound, may require

expedited repair to minimize the ingestion of

pavement fragments.

(f) Shoulders. Areas adjacent to pavements

should be stabilized to prevent FOD. AC

150/5300-13 gives further guidance in the

construction of stabilized shoulders.

(g) Debris Removal.

(1) Receptacles. Provide conspicuously

located, well marked FOD receptacles. Suggested

locations include the following: near entry points

to the airport operations area, in hangars, in

aircraft tiedown and aircraft maintenance areas,

and at each aircraft gate.

(2) Equipment. Consider using

specialized brooms, magnets, and vacuum-type

machines to clean aircraft operational areas as well

as runway and taxiway safety areas. The

acquisition of power sweepers and/or vacuums for

use in FOD prevention is considered appropriate.

The National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc.

FOD Prevention Industry Guideline (Appendix 2)

recommends that sweeper brushes with metal

bristles or spines not be used. Plastic or

combination plastic/metal bristles may be

appropriate, but the user should consult the

equipment manufacturer for specific

recommendations. Regardless of the equipment

used, a thorough check of the pavement should be

conducted at the conclusion of the sweeping

procedure.

(3) Pavement Joints. Give special

attention to the cleaning of cracks and pavement

joints as tests have shown that these are the main

sources of foreign objects which are ingested.
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

3(and 4)

7. National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc.

National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc. is a

nonprofit industry group dedicated to the

elimination of FOD. Their FOD Prevention

Industry Guideline is reproduced as Appendix 2 to

this document. For additional information, contact

National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc. at 1-

800-FOD-1121.

DAVID L. BENNETT

Director, Office of Airport Safety and Standards
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

4

THIS PAGE BLANK FOR ALIGNMENT
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

Appendix 1

1(and 2)

APPENDIX 1. ILLUSTRATIONS OF RESULTS OF FOREIGN OBJECT DAMAGE

FOD can result in

the following:

1. Relatively

minor damage to

an engine nacelle,

2. The need to

completely rebuild

a jet engine, or

3. The loss of an

aircraft and

possibly life.
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

Appendix 1

2

BLANK PAGE FOR ALIGNMENT
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

Appendix 1

1

APPENDIX 2. NATIONAL AEROSPACE FOD PREVENTION, INC.

FOD PREVENTION INDUSTRY GUIDELINE

The following is a reprint of the National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc. FOD Prevention Industry Guideline.

Although the appearance has been altered for the purpose of this AC, the content of the guideline is the same.

FOREWORD

The purpose of this document is to establish a guideline for the prevention of foreign object damage (FOD) to

aerospace products being designed, developed, manufactured, assembled, operated, repaired, modified,

refurbished and maintained.

Most FOD can be attributed to poor housekeeping, facilities deterioration, improper maintenance or careless

assembly and operations practices. An effective FOD prevention program identifies potential problems,

corrects negative factors, provides awareness, effective employee training, and uses industry “lessons learned”

for continued improvement.

The objective of the FOD Prevention Industry Guideline is the preservation of private and national assets and

to reduce the hazards to life that are inherent in aerospace activities.

This document is intended to be used as a baseline FOD prevention policy/procedure. Users are encouraged to

apply the contents of this guideline to suit their particular product or company.

INTRODUCTION

National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc. is a nonprofit, educational undertaking. The purpose of the

organization is to provide the aerospace industry with information about the prevention of foreign object

damage to aircraft and aerospace vehicles. The intent is to make the aerospace industry aware of the need to

eliminate foreign debris, and to provide information about current proven practices and technological

advancements that prevent FOD. Additionally, board members work with all interested companies,

associations, and government agencies to accomplish this purpose.

This guidance is developed by the Board of Directors. The Board was established in l985 to oversee the

activities of the National Aerospace FOB Prevention Conference and represents members from aerospace

companies, suppliers, associations, and government agencies. This guidance is designed to provide assistance,

advancement, and share awareness with the aerospace industry. Valuable “lessons learned” have been shared

so that the industry can become more effective in their individual FOD prevention programs.

It is anticipated that as the industry accepts and implements these recommendations, Quality and product

integrity will improve, thereby increasing productivity and reducing avoidable cost. The Board recognizes each

program must be individually based on company philosophies, contract requirements, and policies. This

guidelines will be helpful toward the goal of permanent and continuous improvement in promotion of flight

safety.

I. GENERAL

A. SCOPE

The guideline establishes recommendations for prevention of Foreign Object Damage (FOD) to aerospace

products. Aerospace products include aircraft, missiles, launch vehicles, drones, satellites, engines, operating

systems, manufactured parts, associated ground support equipment, and related components.
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

Appendix 1

2

B. DEFINITIONS

Clean-As-You-Go. A job by job cleaning. Clean before leaving the work area. Be in control of all debris,

tools, hardware, and consumables.

Consumables. Supplies provided to workers that are expendable.

Examples are:

• issued apparel

• Safety glasses

• Glue, paint, sealant

• Rags

• Sandpaper, brushes, applicators

• Free-stock items: fasteners and other hardware.

Critical Area. Any area that when exposed to foreign objects would potentially cause a system or product

failure due to deterioration or malfunction.

Critical FO. Foreign objects in areas from which migration is possible, e.g., through tooling holes, bend

relief cutouts, drain holes, intakes, etc., which are probable to cause system or component malfunction or

deterioration should the product be put into use.

Foreign Object (FO). A substance or article alien to vehicle or system.

Foreign Object Elimination (FOE). A program or process used to assure a FOD-free product/system.

Potential FOD. The condition where a FO may cause damage should the product be put into use.

Examples are:

• Metal or wire clippings, solder balls and debris lying in the vicinity or electrical terminals,

circuitry, connectors, components, etc.

• Tools, hardware, or debris left in the vicinity, or in a migratory path or a vehicle’s control system

or engine inlets

• Debris lying on runways, ramps and taxiways

• Propwash exhaust blasts

• Inclement weather

• Ice and salt

• Birds and other animals

• Electro-Static Discharge (ESD)

• Construction debris

Shadowbox. A tool box with specific, marked locations for each tool so that a missing tool will be readily

noticeable.

Tether. A lanyard of sufficient strength (wire, rope, cable, etc.) attached to the tool/equipment and to the

user or fixed secure object. The tether should be minimum length to preclude damage from tethered tool “free

swing.”

Tote Tray. A device for storing/carrying/transporting tools or equipment in a secure manner to prevent

inadvertent dropping, i.e., a tool holder, an apron with pocket rings to which tools can be secured. Tote trays

with lids will have the lid secured to the tote tray body.

C. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

Appendix 1

3

1. MIL-STD-980

2. AFI 21-101, ACCI 21-101

3. OPNAV 4790.2E

II. IMPLEMENTATION CONTROL METHODS

Establish and maintain an effective FOD prevention program that is planned and implemented using a

“continuous improvement” approach.

Basic Elements

1. FOD Prevention Training.

2. Early design consideration for FOD prevention, resistance to damage, FOD entrapment or

component.

3. Assembly sequencing and maintenance/manufacturing techniques that include proper care and

use of assembly/maintenance equipment and parts protective devices.

4. Handling of material.

5. Housekeeping.

6. Control of tools and personal items.

7. Control of Hardware/consumables.

8. Measuring techniques for analysis, trending, and feedback.

9. Incident investigation/reporting , “lessons learned.”

10. Control of hazardous material.

PREVENTIVE PRACTICES

1. Follow procedures.

2. Practice good housekeeping, “clean-as-you-go.”

3. Established designated storage areas for ladders, hoses, tool boxes and other work aids.

4. Account for all tools, hardware, and equipment at specific intervals.

5 Use x-ray, borescope, and other state-of-the-art equipment to inspect inaccessible areas.

6. Provide worker awareness to FOD causes.

7. Industry feedback.

A. MEASURING PERFORMANCE
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

Appendix 1

4

The operational target in any FOD Prevention Program should always be “zero.” To enable visibility to

problem areas and trends, provide management and workers with inspection results, incident/mishap reports,

and feedback of progress. Methods providing this information are:

• Visibility Charts - statistical graphics derived from audit or incident data. Usually provided on an

isochronic schedule, i.e., weekly or monthly.

• Trend Analysis - Where have you been? Where are you going?

• Report Card - a checklist of areas routinely inspected that shows specific problem areas.

• Performance Review - a review of worker conformance to standards or expectations.

• Customer comments, concerns, or complaints.

Workers need specific information about what is wrong before they can be expected to improve processes.

Let them know when they’re doing well or when they’re not. Feedback is vital to process improvement.

B. TRAINING

The primary objective of a FOD prevention training program is to increase employee awareness to the

causes and effects of FOD and to promote active involvement through specific techniques.

A FOD prevention training program for employees associated with design, development, manufacturing,

assembly, test, operations, repair, modification, refurbishment, and maintenance is required as part of initial job

orientation and on a continuing basis.

Training subjects include:

1. Proper storage, shipping, and handling of material, components, and equipment

2. Techniques to control debris

3. Housekeeping

4. Cleaning and inspection of components and assemblies

5. Accountability/control of tools and hardware

6. Control of personal items, equipment and consumables

7. Care and protection of end items

8. Quality Workmanship (“Clean-as-you-go,” Inspection)

9. Flight line, taxiway, and ramp control methods.

10. How to report FOD incidents or potential incidents.

C. MATERIAL HANDING AND PARTS PROTECTION

A well-established plan or material handling and parts protection can eliminate many potential FOD

hazards. First, identify the specifics such as sensitive parts, assemblies, surfaces, areas, etc. Then, sequence

events for packaging, handling, shipping, and storage, and finally, evaluate cleanliness and care requirements.

Control Techniques
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

Appendix 1

5

• All employees should be trained to assure compliance with packaging, handling, shipping, and

storage requirements.

• Materials and accessories used in the packaging, handling, shipping, and storage which have

intimate contact with the part or assembly shall be clean and free of contamination.

• Parts and assemblies shall be packaged in a manner that will preclude any chance of one item

making contact with another during normal handling operations.

• Protective and packaging materials shall be chosen based on their ability to adequately resist

penetration by tearing, parting, or piercing from forces either external or internal during normal handling

operations.

• Specific instructions for packaging/unpackaging/handling.

• Protective devices (edge protectors, caps, plugs, covers, filters, rub strips) shall be clean and

secured to prevent accidental damage. Once installed, unauthorized removal of protective devices is prohibited

and shall be controlled through assembly or maintenance planning paperwork.

Consideration should be given to the visibility/detection of material used for protection so that the material

in itself doesn’t become FOD. Consideration should include:

• Color of packaging or protective devices so they don’t appear to be a part of what they are

protecting.

• Streamers for removal for critical items.

Material Characteristics

1. Materials shall be compatible with the environmental and physical stresses expected to be

encountered during product service.

2. Static sensitive devices shall be properly protected to avoid damage. Materials that are used to

protect electro-explosive devices and sensitive electronic components shall be kept clean, covered, and stored

away from ordinary nonstatic safe materials.

Condition

Visually inspect all packaging, handling, shipping, and storage containers for the following:

l. Nicks, dents, holes, abrasions, scratches, burns, etc., which may be detrimental to the function and

integrity of the part or assembly.

2. Grease, preservatives, corrosion products, weld slag, shop and other dirt, and other materials

foreign to the item.

D. HOUSEKEEPING

Maintenance, manufacturing, and operational areas must remain clean. Employees should be informed

that housekeeping is a part of their job, and they will be graded on their performance. Incorporate “clean-asyou-go” as a required work ethic to prevent debris from migrating into flight hardware:

• Ensure that all production, maintenance, and test areas meet “good housekeeping” standards that

enhance foreign object elimination. This includes sweeping and vacuuming production areas as well as a

regular schedule for sweeping ramp areas.

• Assure that taxiways, runways, and flight decks are free of foreign objects that may cause damage.

• Ensure that grounds and surfaces on which aerospace vehicles and ground support equipment are

operated and maintained are free of objects that could cause damage due to ingestion of foreign object or jet

blast effects.
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

Appendix 1

6

• Establish and maintain safe taxi distances between aircraft to minimize the danger of debris being

moved by the jet blast exhaust.

• Ensure prior to the occupation of newly constructed aircraft facilities that all construction debris

(including overhead welding slag) is removed as a foreign object elimination measure.

• In the refurbishment or maintenance of existing airfield facilities or construction of new facilities,

assure that all construction debris is removed at the end of each task or at the end of each shift. This

requirement should be entered into contractual agreements.

E. TOOL ACCOUNTABILITY

The primary objective of a positive tool control program is to eliminate accidents/incidents and loss of life

or equipment due to tool FOD.

There are numerous methods to facilitate accountability: use of shadow boards, shadowboxing, bar coding,

special canvas layouts with tool pockets, tool counters, chit system, or consolidated tool kits. Unique control

methods should be implemented for special tools used in checkout, test, and operational environments.

Tools/equipment should be tethered or suitably restrained to the user in areas around structural workstands

or any other locations where a dropped article could result in damage to flight hardware, injury to personnel, or

where difficulty in retrieval would result if the tool were dropped.

All loose tools should be carried and stored in a tote tray, soft tool bag or other suitable container and not

be placed in a manner that would cause damage to flight hardware or injury to personnel.

F. HARDWARE CONTROL

The primary objective of hardware control is to assure accountability.

There are many effective methods that can be established for control of hardware (nuts, bolts, screws, cotter

pins, rivets, clecoes, etc.):

1. Kit hardware by task.

2. FO containers should be placed in key locations within the work area and at entry and exit points.

3. “Clean-as-you-go.”

4. Removal/installation paperwork to track loose parts.

5. Furnish and specify tote trays.

G. LOST ITEMS

Any time an item is lost during an assembly, manufacturing, or maintenance task, cease activity in the

affected area and initiate a search for the item. Continue this search until the item is found or adequate

assurances are made that the item is not contained in the aerospace vehicle or assembly. Searching for such

items may require depaneling or nondestructive inspections, including borescope and/or x-ray. If an item

cannot be located after a search has been completed, annotate forms (maintenance records) with a description

of the item and search procedure followed.

H. HAZARDOUS MATERIAL

Management of hazardous waste materials is important in the prevention of FOD. Disposition of

hazardous waste materials is dependent upon the commodity discarded.
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

Appendix 1

7

Consult Federal, state, and local Hazardous Material Procedures for disposal specifics.

III. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Begin the reduction of damage potential and elimination of FOD hazards with the design process. Assure

design includes, but is not limited to:

A. Identify and eliminate FO entrapment areas.

B Identify and seal areas through which FO can migrate.

C. Use screens over exposed openings when appropriate: e.g., intakes, exhausts, etc.

D. Install special access panels, ports, etc., for inspection and clean-out of FO that could potentially cause

damage.

E. Use blind fasteners in critical areas, such as fuel cells, that are not prone to leaving debris during

installation.

F. Use fasteners with self-retaining features to secure high usage access panels.

G. Locate service points, ground points, and built-in test equipment in areas which are least FOD

sensitive.

H. Use compatible metals and seals to prevent accelerated deterioration and subsequent failure of seal

material.

I. Use conformal coatings as a positive seal against entry of minute FO including dust and water vapor.

K. Design aircraft inlets to minimize traps where water can collect and freeze. Inlets should be easily

plugged and completely sealed against water when plugged.

L. Chaffing potential should be eliminated through the design of hardware brackets, special protective

material and special routing.

M. Provide screening or other means of FO blockage for water drainage holes forward of the engine inlet

path.

N. Procedures shall include provisions for FOD incident feedback and appropriate corrective action.

IV. ASSEMBLY OPERATIONS

Plan and sequence maintenance/manufacturing tasks to preclude foreign object damage and entrapment of

debris or contamination. Documents should contain necessary processes and procedures for controlling and

removal of contamination and debris during fabrication and assembly operations. As applicable, the following

should be included in work instructions:

A. Upon completion of final machining operation, clean or flush the machined component to assure that

it is free of debris, and immediately cap or seal exposed openings to deny foreign object entry.

B. Adequately protect hardware and equipment from splatter accumulation during brazing soldering ,

welding and like operations.
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

Appendix 1

8

C. Inspect components and equipment for damage prior to installation and repair as necessary. Always

ensure part integrity before installation.

D. Verify required protective devices (dust covers, temporary seals, cushioning, etc.) are present and

properly installed. Items with protective devices missing are to be inspected for FO, cleaned if necessary, and

protective devices installed.

E. After fluid and pneumatic system lines and tubing are cut and debarred, assure thorough cleaning and

cap ends of lines.

F. Inspect for and remove extraneous material as part of the assembly step, conduct a foreign object

inspection and remove debris.

G. Inspect production tooling (jigs, fixtures, handling equipment, etc.) to assure it is clean, undamaged

and free of foreign material prior to installation and build-up of components or assemblies. Exercise this same

care for workstands, ladders, special test equipment, etc., which must be placed on, in, or around production

hardware to accomplish specific tasks.

V. TEST CELL ENVIRONMENT

When products are in a test cell environment, FOD prevention procedures shall include, but are not limited to,

the following:

A. Assurance that adequate preventive maintenance is performed on the test facility.

B. Inspection of the test cell and facility equipment for deterioration or damage and assurance that

deficiencies which present a FOD hazard are corrected prior to test cell operations.

C. Inspection of the area before introduction of the test article to the test environment to be sure that it is

clean, tools are secured, fixtures, dollies and special test equipment are properly prepared and secured, and that

required protective devices (engine inlet screens, covers for engine components and instruments, etc.) are on

hand, clean, and undamaged.

D. Visual inspection of the test article before it is placed in the test cell, removal of loose objects, and

installation of the necessary protective devices.

E. Ensure test cell equipment, tools and accessories are maintained and used in a manner to protect test

article from damage or contamination through tool abuse or in-use failure (chipping, cracking, peeling, fraying,

etc.).

F. Prior to start, visually inspect engine intake/exhaust areas for potential FO and rotate the engine

through sufficient revolutions to ascertain if there is unusual noise or binding condition. Instrumentation lines,

hoses, and wires should be taped or clamped to eliminate vibratory failure. Use of lockwire or cotter pins for

this purpose is prohibited.

G. Upon completion of each test article run and prior to removal from the test cell, inspect test article for

presence of FOD and install protective covers.

Physical Entry into FOD Critical Areas

When physical entry is required into flight hardware, such as crew compartment, engine intake, exhaust,

fuel tank areas, etc., assure removal of all loose objects, badges, jewelry, etc., from clothing. Pocketless

coveralls should be worn to preclude foreign objects dropping from pockets onto a FOD critical area.
7/5/96 AC 150/5380-5B

Appendix 1

9

VI. FIELD OPERATIONS

Field operation primarily involves inspection, care, and maintenance of ramps, structures, runways, and

taxiways. A comprehensive, scheduled maintenance system using sweepers, magnets on vehicles, and frequent

inspections will provide some confidence, but additionally, special considerations may include:

1. Tarmac repair methods/materials and frequency of inspection.

2. Vehicular traffic patterns and controls; i.e., all vehicles should be driven on clean, paved surfaces

when possible. If a vehicle must be driven on an unpaved surface, the operator will check the vehicle tires for

foreign objects immediately after returning to the pavement.

3. Support equipment cleanliness - items used in and around aircraft must be FO free and should be

inspected prior to movement.

4. Sweeper effectiveness - just because a sweeper is used, does not mean it is effective. Periodically

check sweeper routes to assure cleanliness. Also, sweeper brushes made with metal bristles or spines should

not be used.

5. Attendants, flight line workers and contractors must be briefed and continually reminded of

expectations related to foreign object damage and control. Worker involvement is the key to a successful

program.

6. A flight line traffic plan depicting routes to be used by all approved vehicles requiring access to

buildings on or around the flight line should be developed and posted.

7. Routine inspection of areas used by contractors, tenants, concessionaires for staging equipment,

load/off-load, operations, etc.

8. Establish FOD Control policies for all personnel, vehicles, equipment, and special events having

access to the airport operations area (AOA).

9. Include FOD prevention considerations in the design, contracting, award, and construction

management for all airfield projects.

VII. REPORTING/INVESTIGATION

All incidents of actual or potential FOD must be reported and investigated. When a FOD incident occurs,

operations must immediately cease and an investigation initiated to determine the cause. Cause and corrective

action must be attained in a timely manner to preclude similar occurrences from happening in the future -

“lessons learned.” Cause may be determined by visual observation, forensic analysis, or by location of the

object.

A FOD incident report format should include the following:

• Date • How discovered

• Part name (nomenclature) • Narrative description of FO/FOD

• Type and/or model - when analyzed

• Part serial number - who analyzed

• Part location - how analyzed

• When discovered • Corrective action

• Who discovered • Reported by
AC 150/5380-5B 7/5/96

Appendix 1

10

If FOD incident is discovered after flight operations:

• Ground/flight maneuvers performed • Aircrew contact phone number

• Taxi route • Time/sequence of events

• Airports involved • Weather/environment

• Abnormal operations

These reports should be directed to a focal point who will perform tracking and trending analysis. The focal

point should also assure all affected personnel are aware of all potential (near mishap)/actual FOD reports

which will facilitate feedback (“lessons learned”).

When an incident occurs on a government program, check contractual requirements and notify the appropriate

government representative, if applicable.

Where a FO exists but cannot be eliminated, found, or effectively sealed, identify, document and record all

significant search activity in the appropriate aircraft paperwork.

A “near mishap” is one where FOD incidents would have occurred had the event remained undetected.

Documenting near mishap incidents and sharing them with workers is an important part of feedback,

awareness, and “lessons learned.”

Questions regarding this document

should be directed to any member of the

National Aerospace FOD Prevention, Inc.,

Board of Directors or dial:

1-800-FOD-1121