Safe Operation of Tow-Behind Sweeper

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety precautions and procedures for the safe operation of tow-behind sweepers on airport runways and tarmac areas. It is designed to minimize the risk of incidents, injuries, and damage to equipment, while also preventing Foreign Object Debris (FOD) hazards in compliance with aviation safety regulations. This procedure applies to all personnel involved in operating or working in proximity to tow-behind sweepers.

2. Definitions

FOD Foreign Object Debris – Any object that does not belong in the airport environment and has the potential to cause damage to aircraft or injury to personnel. Tarmac A paved area on an airport, typically used for parking, maneuvering, and servicing aircraft. Runway A defined rectangular area on an airport prepared for the landing and takeoff of aircraft. Tow-Behind Sweeper A mechanical sweeper that is towed behind a vehicle to collect debris from surfaces.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that all operators are trained and competent in the safe operation of tow-behind sweepers.
• Verify that equipment is regularly inspected and maintained in safe working condition.
• Enforce adherence to this SWP and all relevant safety regulations.
• Conduct regular site inspections to identify and mitigate potential hazards.

3.2 Workers

• Operate tow-behind sweepers in accordance with this SWP and all relevant safety regulations.
• Participate in required training programs and competency assessments.
• Report any equipment defects, hazards, or incidents to the supervisor immediately.
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of safety procedures.
• Participate in incident investigations and recommend corrective actions.
• Promote a culture of safety and awareness among workers.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Collision with Aircraft or Vehicles	Severe injury, equipment damage, operational delays.	Maintain constant communication with air traffic control and ground personnel. Use designated routes and maintain safe distances from aircraft and other vehicles. Adhere to speed limits.
FOD Generation	Damage to aircraft engines, tires, and other critical components.	Regularly inspect and maintain the sweeper to prevent parts from becoming dislodged. Ensure the sweeper is effectively collecting debris. Properly dispose of collected debris in designated containers.
Equipment Malfunction	Loss of control, mechanical failure, potential for accidents.	Conduct pre-operation inspections to identify and address any defects. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. Ensure all safety devices are functional.
Slips, Trips, and Falls	Minor to severe injuries to personnel.	Maintain a clean and organized work area. Wear appropriate footwear with good traction. Be aware of potential slip and trip hazards, such as uneven surfaces or spills.
Noise Exposure	Hearing damage to operators and nearby personnel.	Wear approved hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs). Ensure the sweeper is equipped with noise reduction features and that they are properly maintained. Limit exposure time to high noise levels.
Dust and Debris Exposure	Respiratory irritation, eye injuries, and skin irritation.	Wear appropriate respiratory protection (dust mask or respirator). Use sweepers equipped with dust suppression systems. Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes.
Moving Parts	Entanglement, crushing injuries.	Ensure all guards and safety devices are in place and functioning correctly. Never attempt to clear jams or perform maintenance while the sweeper is in operation. Use lockout/tagout procedures when performing maintenance.
Towing Hazards [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [13] [16] [17]	Personal injury or death could result when towing a disabled machine incorrectly.	Before you tow the machine, make sure that the tow line or the tow bar is in good condition. Do not use a wire rope that is kinked, twisted, or damaged. Make sure that the tow line or the tow bar has enough strength for the towing procedure that is involved. The strength of the tow line or of the tow bar should be at least 150 percent of the gross weight of the towed machine.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All personnel involved in the operation of tow-behind sweepers must wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

• High-Visibility Safety Vest: ANSI Class 2 or 3 high-visibility vest to ensure the operator is visible to other vehicles and aircraft.
• Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) appropriate for the noise levels generated by the sweeper.
• Safety Glasses or Goggles: To protect eyes from dust, debris, and other potential hazards.
• Steel-Toed Boots: To protect feet from impact and crushing hazards.
• Gloves: Heavy-duty work gloves to protect hands from abrasions, cuts, and vibrations.

Inspect PPE before each use for any damage or defects. Replace damaged or defective PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

All equipment and tools used in this procedure must be inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Tow-Behind Sweeper: The tow-behind sweeper must be appropriate for the surface being cleaned and maintained according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Towing Vehicle: The towing vehicle must be suitable for towing the sweeper and operated by trained and authorized personnel.
• Communication Device: Two-way radio or other communication device for maintaining contact with air traffic control and ground personnel.
• Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks or blocks at the front of the wheels and behind them to prevent MEWP movement. [12] [14] [15] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22]

Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of the tow-behind sweeper and towing vehicle according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Keep detailed records of all inspections and maintenance activities.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All operators must complete a training program that covers the safe operation of tow-behind sweepers, hazard identification, risk assessment, and emergency procedures. Operators must demonstrate competency through practical assessments.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Conduct a pre-job briefing before each shift to discuss the day's activities, potential hazards, and safety precautions. Ensure all personnel understand their roles and responsibilities.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Inspect the work area for any potential hazards, such as FOD, uneven surfaces, or obstacles. Remove or mitigate any hazards before commencing work. Ensure adequate lighting and visibility.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Pre-Operation Inspection: Before each shift, inspect the tow-behind sweeper and towing vehicle for any defects or damage. Check all fluid levels, tires, lights, and safety devices. Ensure all brooms and brushes are in good condition and properly adjusted.
2. Communication with Air Traffic Control: Establish and maintain communication with air traffic control and ground personnel before entering the runway or tarmac area. Obtain clearance and follow all instructions.
3. Route Planning: Plan the sweeping route to minimize interference with aircraft and other vehicles. Use designated routes and avoid restricted areas.
4. Sweeping Operation: Operate the sweeper at a safe and controlled speed. Monitor the sweeper's performance and make adjustments as needed to ensure effective debris collection. Avoid sudden stops or turns.
5. Debris Disposal: Regularly empty the sweeper's debris hopper into designated containers. Ensure the containers are properly secured and do not pose a FOD hazard.
6. Post-Operation Inspection: After each shift, inspect the sweeper for any damage or defects. Report any issues to the supervisor and schedule necessary repairs.
7. Parking and Securing: Park the sweeper and towing vehicle in a designated area. Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to prevent movement.
8. Winch and tow procedure: Use wheel chocks or blocks at the front of the wheels and behind them to prevent MEWP movement. Turn the main power disconnect switch to the off position. [12] [14] [15] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22]

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Never operate the tow-behind sweeper under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Be aware of surroundings at all times and maintain a safe distance from aircraft and other vehicles.
• Report any unsafe conditions or practices to the supervisor immediately.
• Do not exceed the sweeper's maximum speed or towing capacity.
• Ensure all personnel are trained in the proper use of fire extinguishers and spill response procedures.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop the sweeper and towing vehicle in a safe location. Activate hazard lights and notify air traffic control and ground personnel. Follow established emergency response protocols.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Fire: Immediately shut down the sweeper and towing vehicle. Use a fire extinguisher to extinguish the fire if it is small and controllable. Evacuate the area and notify emergency services.
• Spill: Contain the spill using absorbent materials. Notify the supervisor and follow established spill response procedures. Properly dispose of contaminated materials.
• Collision: Assess the situation and provide first aid to any injured personnel. Notify air traffic control, ground personnel, and emergency services. Document the incident and cooperate with the investigation.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. The supervisor will complete an incident report and submit it to the safety department.

The safety department will investigate all reported incidents to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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