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Foreign Object Debris (FOD)

 

Foreign Object Debris (FOD) is any type of object within the ramp or taxi area that does not belong there during base operations.

Discuss the different types of FOD and ways to maintain a clear and safe ramp.

  • Small rocks, chunks of paint, and rubber are common debris that may accumulate on ramps and loading pits. The Ramp Manager (RAMP)/Fixed Wing Parking Tender (FWPT) should inspect the ramp often and closely monitor it during active periods.
  • All personnel working around the ramp should watch for blowing debris such as trash bags, paper, and cleaning rags. These can be generated by base personnel or blown in from adjacent areas/taxiways. Care should be taken to pick up all materials used within the ramp area before aircraft arrive.
  • Items used while aircraft are being tended to can become FOD. These items can become obstructions and/or blowing debris. FWPT must inspect their areas closely before marshaling an aircraft.
    • Examples of FOD:
      • Tools.
      • Chock blocks.
      • Partially filled water bottles.
      • Airtanker fill aids.
      • Buckets.
  • How often are loading pits and ramp areas at your base inspected for FOD?
  • Creating a checklist to document full ramp sweeps can aid with the consistent monitoring of ramp conditions.
Category
Airtankers
References
NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508


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NWCG Latest Announcements

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee Releases Safety Warning: 25-001 Non-specification fire shelters

Date: January 15, 2025
Contact: Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Safety Warning: 25-001 Non-specification fire shelters. Non-specification fire shelters claiming to meet Forest Service (FS) fire shelter specification 5100-606 were first found in February of 2023. As of September 2024, non-specification shelters are again being advertised and sold on the open market.

This Safety Warning outlines details and recommended procedures to purchase FS specification shelters made with materials and components that meet performance criteria and toxicity testing requirements outlined in FS Specification 5100-606. 

For additional information on identifying non-specification shelters, please view ETC Safety Warning 23-01.

References:

ETC Safety Warning 25-001: Non-specification fire shelters

NWCG Equipment Technology Committee

ETC Safety Warning 23-01

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Awards

Date: January 14, 2025
Contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee has awarded the 2023 Paul Gleason “Lead By Example” awards to individuals in the categories of Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, and Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Sam Bowen, Superintendent of the Mark Twain Veteran Crew with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Greg Titus, Zone Fire Management Officer for the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Renae Crippen, Manager of the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Eric Carlson, Instructor with OMNA International.

References:

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Interview with Paul Gleason

Updated NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518

Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: Water Scooper Operations Unit

The NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518 establishes the standards for dispatching, utilizing, and coordinating water scooping aircraft on interagency wildland fires. These standards should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision (SAS), PMS 505, and any local, state, or geographic/regional water scooping plans.

References:

NWCG Standards for Water Scooping Operations, PMS 518

Updated NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505

Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: Interagency Aerial Supervision Subcommittee

The Interagency Aerial Supervision Subcommittee has updated the NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505. PMS 505 establishes standards for aerial supervision operations for national interagency wildland fire operations. 

References:

NWCG Standards for Aerial Supervision, PMS 505