Foreign Object Debris

Foreign Object Debris (FOD)- An inanimate object within the movement area which has no operational or aeronautical function and which has the potential to be a hazard to aircraft operations.

There are Several methods to Remove Foreign Object Debris from Airport Operations Area (AOA)

Mechanical Systems

These technologies use powered devices in mechanical systems that remove or retrieve FOD items and contain retrieved FOD for proper disposition. Equipment in this category varies in size, and is found in sizes from small push units to large area systems that are truck mounted. Types of mechanical removal systems include:-

(1)               Power Sweepers, including tow-behind bristle trailers. The sweeper removes debris from cracks and pavement joints, and is typically used in all areas of the AOA including areas where GSE are staged. NOTE: For all brush systems, operators are cautioned that bristles can detach from brooms and produce a FOD source. Brushes made with metal bristles or spines are not recommended to be used for FOD removal purposes. 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.

(2)               Vacuum Systems. These systems perform FOD removal functions similar to the power sweepers described above, but use air flow as the primary means of object retrieval. The systems may also perform in conjunction with mechanical brooms or other recirculating air units.

(3) Jet Air Blowers. These systems move FOD and other debris by directing a stream of high velocity air towards the pavement surface. When used in the airport environment, it is recommended that these systems incorporate a debris collection mechanism so that FOD will not simply be relocated to another area in the AOA.

Non-Mechanical Systems.

(1) Friction Mat Sweepers. A rectangular assembly towed behind a vehicle that employs a series of bristle brushes and friction to sweep FOD into sets of capture scoops, which are covered by a retaining mesh to hold collected debris.

(2)               Magnetic Bars (attached to vehicles). These bars can be suspended beneath tugs and trucks to pick up metallic material. However, the bars should be cleaned regularly to prevent them from dropping the collected debris. Vehicle’s operation in the AOA should be inspected periodically to ensure that they have no loose items that can fall off. Common magnetic materials include ceramic, rare earth, and alnico metals. Conversely, magnetic bars are not able to pick up the following types of common FOD materials: titanium and aluminum alloys, some stainless steels, and plastics.

(3)               Rumble strips (also “FOD Shakers”). Long devices, which are 10 to 15 ft (3 to 4.60 m) long, that are positioned on the pavement to dislodge FOD from vehicles that drive over them. While these devices may have been used in the past, they are no longer a widely accepted FOD removal system. Their effectiveness at removing debris from tires or vehicle undercarriages is negligible, and the equipment can generate its own FOD if not cleaned out regularly. The current best practice for removing FOD from tires is to stop a vehicle at a designated checkpoint, perform a visual inspection, and then use a hand tool to manually remove detected debris.

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