Foreign Object Debris

In the Aerospace or Aviation industry, Foreign Object Debris causes billions per year in damage.

In the Aerospace or Aviation industry, Foreign Object Debris causes billions per year in damage. Foreign Object Debris is also known as FOD. FOD is any item foreign to an aircraft or system, which could potentially create damage. FOD is used to describe both the foreign objects as well as any damage attributed to them. FOD can cause damage internally as well as mechanically. Foreign Object Debris in manufacturing areas can be found, outside work areas, vehicle tire tread, on runways, in engines, and pretty much anywhere surrounding aircraft. FOD can be created during the assembly of aircraft and can also occur from existing aircraft. There are many studies that have shown damage occurring from a flock of seagulls, an ash-filled storm, to metal falling from a vehicle or aircraft that gets sucked into an engine and unfortunately, more than the loss of money occurs, sometimes even loss of life. Any sort of FOD that is found where it shouldn’t create extreme damage and danger.

Due to the billions of dollars of damage and unfortunate loss of life created by FOD, many businesses are now implementing FOD prevention programs. These programs identify potential problem areas, provide awareness of FOD, implement effective employee training, and help share stories of lessons already learned. Foreign Object Debris Program can also include many FOD products like FOD Bags, FOD Tool Bags, FOD Buckets, FOD Pouch, FOD Bins, Foreign Object Debris Containers, FOD Covers, FOD Tape, FOD Suits, and many more. Below are some examples of such FOD products along with the businesses that sell them.

Best of luck as you continue down the Foreign Object Debris Prevention and Awareness path.​