Aerospace Foreign Object Damage – AS9146 Compliance

Foreign Object Damage (FOD) is a major concern in aviation, aerospace, and defense craft and operating environments, including maintenance facilities, airfields, and aircraft manufacturing plants. FOD can risk the safety of personnel and cause serious damage, including direct damage to aircraft parts like sensors and engines. Indirect costs of FOD include delays, increased maintenance, and risk of injury to personnel.

Managing FOD effectively can minimize operational interruptions, prevent safety breaches, and minimize repair costs. Read on to learn more about how you can protect your aircraft, personnel, and facilities from unforeseen damage.

Understanding FOD

FOD is any object, particle, substance, or agent that could cause economic or physical damage to an aircraft. The acronym “FOD” can refer to foreign objects or the damage caused by said objects. This includes wildlife strikes during operation, debris on the runway, or maintenance tools inadvertently left in the aircraft.

Minimizing and managing FOD can take many forms. Best practices include taking proactive measures to control wildlife near airports, utilizing strict tool control protocols, and meticulously cleaning work zones.

AS9146 Standard and FOD

The FOD Prevention Program requirements defined by AS9146 standards provide guidelines for organizations involved in the development and design of defense, space, and aviation products and services. Under this standard, organizations must conduct thorough risk assessments for FOD, establish mechanisms for continuous monitoring, and encourage a culture of awareness and prevention.

AS9146 compliance increases safety and operational integrity by addressing FOD risks systematically at each stage in product development, handling, and delivery. The AS9146 standard is intended to complement common customer specifications and their applicable regulatory and statutory requirements, rather than replace them.

FOD in Manufacturing

FOD risks can significantly impact the efficiency of production processes and product quality in manufacturing. Proper control and management of FOD in manufacturing are critical in reducing the risk of product damage and avoiding unintended costs or delays.

FOD management protocols to integrate into manufacturing procedures and processes include:

• Routine inspections of the facility
• Using the proper equipment
• Personnel training
• Strict tool and part controls
• Organization and cleanliness
• Work area oversight

Some valuable best practices to prevent FOD in aerospace manufacturing include using protective coverings during sensitive part assembly, utilizing magnetic sweepers to collect metal debris, and establishing clean zones to carry out critical operations.

FOD Detection Systems

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) evaluates various detection technologies as they serve to elevate safety standards in aerospace applications. Major U.S. airports use automated FOD detection systems to detect and remove hazardous foreign object debris before they can damage aircraft. Optical sensors and radar help teams monitor surfaces at the airport for FOD, providing real-time monitoring and alerts to airport operation centers.

The FAA highlights the critical nature of integrating technology in FOD management protocols to maintain airport operations and enhance airfield safety.

Take Action Against FOD: Join Us in Leading Aerospace Safety and Compliance

A preventative approach is critical to safeguard operations and ensure compliance with AS9146 standards. Implementing FOD management practices with a trusted partner can help you manage risk and remain competitive in the aerospace industry.

H&S Manufacturing offers various solutions to meet your organization’s FOD management and control needs. Our services include precision forming, shearing, punching, extruding, bending, notching, welding, and graining, as well as assembly and finishing.

Contact us or request a quote to learn how our expertise in aerospace manufacturing can help you reduce costs and maintain the highest quality and safety standards.