FOD CONTROLLED Area Instructions

FOD CONTROLLED Area (Yellow Zone)

Heightened FOD Awareness & Control

Area Definition

The FOD CONTROLLED area includes stores, general areas, and pathways adjacent to the FOD CRITICAL zone. While aircraft maintenance is not typically performed here, items and personnel frequently move from this area into the critical zone.

The primary goal is to prevent FOD from being generated or carried into the FOD CRITICAL area.

General Rules & Procedures

  • Maintain Good Housekeeping: Workbenches, storage racks, and floors must be kept clean, organized, and free of loose items.
  • Material Control: All parts, materials, and equipment must be properly stored in designated containers or locations. No loose hardware should be left on surfaces.
  • Secure Items: Ensure all items on shelves and carts are secure and not at risk of falling into transit paths.
  • Tool Control: While full check-in/out may not be required for all tasks, tools must be kept in designated kits or toolboxes and should not be left unattended.
  • No Food or Drink: Food and drink are generally prohibited, except in designated break areas with proper waste disposal.

Procedures for Entering FOD CRITICAL Areas

  • Thorough Inspection: Before moving any item (tool cart, parts trolley, equipment) into the Red Zone, it must be thoroughly inspected for potential FOD. Check wheels, surfaces, and containers.
  • Personnel Check: Personnel must perform a self-check for any loose items on their person before crossing into the critical area. Empty pockets of non-essential items.
  • Report Hazards: If you identify a potential FOD hazard in the Yellow Zone, address it immediately or report it to your supervisor.

Housekeeping & Cleaning

  • Daily Cleaning: All work areas must be cleaned at the end of each workday or shift.
  • Regular Audits: Supervisors should conduct regular, informal inspections of the area to ensure compliance with housekeeping standards.
  • Proper Waste Management: All waste, especially packaging, fasteners, and off-cuts, must be disposed of in designated, covered bins.

A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Prevent FOD at the source.