Foreign Object Damage (FOD) training aims to raise awareness of the potential hazards of foreign object damage and provide the necessary knowledge and skills for effective preventive measures. This training is an essential part of the aviation industry’s safety culture and helps ensure the integrity and safety of flight operations.

The content of a training course in FOD includes, but is not limited to:

Definition of FOD
Training begins with a clear definition of FOD and the potential hazards it can pose to aircraft, engines, equipment and people.

Causes and sources of FOD
The training explains how foreign objects can get onto runways and other airport areas, whether due to human error, wind, animal activity, construction or other factors.

Risks and consequences
The training illustrates the potential consequences of FOD, including damage to aircraft, safety risks, financial burdens, and operational disruptions.

FOD Prevention
One focus of the training is to teach prevention strategies to minimize the risk of FOD. This includes rules for conduct in an aviation operation, proper storage of tools and equipment, regular inspections, cleaning and waste disposal measures, and implementation of barriers to keep foreign objects out.

Awareness and training
Training participants learn how to watch for FOD and report suspicions. This may include recognizing unusual items on the tarmac or identifying potential FOD sources.

Procedures and protocols
The training teaches the procedures and protocols for reporting FOD, removing foreign objects, and implementing immediate actions to prevent harm.

Cultural Awareness
The training emphasizes the importance of a „FOD-Free“ culture, where everyone at the airport is responsible for preventing FOD. This requires a shared commitment from airport employees, ground staff, flight crew, and other stakeholders.