Vacation Crowds and Unfamiliar Personnel

1. The Risks of Temporary Hires and Increased Contractor Presence

Temporary hires and vacation fill-ins often bring fresh faces into roles that are critical to maintaining a safe environment. These staff members may not be fully aware of the specific FOD protocols in place, leading to potential oversights. FOD incidents can occur when tools, equipment, and other debris are left unsecured, or when new employees fail to recognize the significance of their surroundings. 

For example, an airfield may host seasonal workers who are not accustomed to checking for loose items before aircraft departures. In motorsport venues, the same issue can arise with contractors who may overlook the importance of securing tools in high-traffic areas. This lack of familiarity can contribute to potentially dangerous situations, resulting in damaged aircraft, delays, or even accidents.

2. Recommendations for Supervisors to Maintain High Standards

To effectively manage FOD risks amid these staffing changes, supervisors must take proactive measures. Here are some essential strategies tailored for both airport and motorsport environments:

a. Implement Comprehensive Training Programs

Training is the backbone of effective FOD management. Supervisors should ensure that all seasonal and temporary employees undergo a thorough orientation focused on FOD awareness. This includes:

• FOD Awareness Workshops: Conduct interactive sessions that illustrate the types of debris commonly found and the potential risks associated with neglect. Use real-world examples to demonstrate the consequences of poor FOD management.
• Hands-On Training: Organize practical exercises, such as FOD walks, where employees can physically identify and collect debris on the apron or racetrack. This hands-on approach develops a keen eye for spotting FOD and reinforces the need for vigilance.

b. Establish Clear Reporting Protocols

Clear communication is vital. Supervisors should create simple, accessible protocols for reporting any FOD incidents or observations. This could involve:

• Creating Reporting Forms: Develop easy-to-use forms that can be filled out and submitted electronically or on paper. Ensure that all staff members know how to report issues promptly.
• Regular Debriefings: Hold briefings at the beginning of each shift to remind all personnel to be vigilant regarding FOD and discuss any recent incidents or observations. This cultivates a culture of attentiveness.

c. Enhance Inspection and Cleanup Frequencies

Increased traffic naturally demands more frequent inspections and cleanup. Supervisors should adopt a rigorous inspection schedule, focusing on high-traffic areas during peak times. This includes:

• Frequent Visual Inspections and Cleanup: Encourage ground crews to conduct thorough visual inspections and cleanup of the ramp, racetrack, and surrounding areas multiple times throughout the day. FOD can accumulate quickly, and early detection is key.
• Schedule Inspections and Cleanups Around Operational Peaks: Align inspection and cleanup times with periods of increased activity to ensure timely identification and removal of FOD. For example, aircraft arrivals and departures or motorsport practice and race sessions.

d. Leverage Specialized Tools

In environments where traditional visual inspections and manual cleanup may not detect or efficiently collect smaller or hidden debris, supervisors can incorporate the use of specialized FOD removal tools. For example, the FOD-Razor is a tool designed to sweep up metal and non-metal debris in large volumes from runways, aprons, or racetracks.

• Support for High-Volume Areas: Tools like the FOD-Razor can assist with clearing debris in larger areas quickly, which may be especially helpful during high-traffic periods.
• Supplement to Manual Efforts: Incorporating such tools could complement manual inspections, helping to reduce the chance of overlooking debris, particularly when working with less experienced or temporary personnel.

e. Promote a Clean-As-You-Go Culture

Encouraging a “clean-as-you-go” mentality can significantly mitigate FOD risks. Supervisors should lead by example, emphasizing personal responsibility among all employees. This can involve:

• Incorporating FOD Management into Daily Tasks: Encourage employees to clean up after themselves as part of their routine. This can include securing tools and equipment immediately after use.
• Recognition Programs: Establish systems to recognize and reward employees who demonstrate exceptional vigilance in FOD management. This acknowledgment can motivate others to uphold similar standards.

f. Maintain Open Lines of Communication

As new personnel join the team, maintaining open lines of communication becomes essential. Supervisors should foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing FOD-related concerns. This can be achieved through:

• Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage staff to voice their concerns about FOD management or suggest improvements. This input can help identify potential weaknesses in current practices.
• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings to discuss FOD management progress and challenges. These sessions can help reinforce the importance of FOD prevention and ensure all team members feel involved.