The Hazards of an AGL Pit (Part 2)
Tuesday 25th February, 2025 at 1400 GMT
Airside electrical pits, commonly found on airport runways, taxiways, and aprons, are essential for housing critical electrical systems and infrastructure. In part 1, Les Payne (B.Sc., AE [Water], M.W.M.Soc., MRSPH), an expert in water and infrastructure hazards, detailed the Hidden Hazards of an AGL pit such as environmental, wildlife and foreign material ingress.
This month we will look at other potential dangers encountered if pits are not properly maintained or designed, including:
Electrical Hazards
- Electric Shock or Arc Flash: Faulty wiring, damaged insulation, or exposure to live electrical components can cause severe injuries or fatalities.
- Water Ingress: If water enters the pits due to poor sealing, it can cause electrical shorts, corrosion, or electrocution risks.
- Overloading or Circuit Failures: Incorrectly installed or outdated systems can lead to equipment overheating or circuit failure.
Structural Hazards
- Trip or Fall Risks: Poorly covered pits, damaged lids, or uneven surfaces around the pits can create tripping hazards for personnel and vehicles.
- Pit Collapse: A structurally unsound pit may collapse under the weight of aircraft, ground vehicles, or personnel.
Fire and Explosion Risks
- Flammable Atmospheres: The presence of fuel vapors or gases combined with electrical faults can lead to fire or explosions.
- Overheating Components: Overloaded electrical systems or poor ventilation in pits can cause overheating and fire risks.
Maintenance and Accessibility Issues
- Limited Access: If pits are poorly designed or obstructed, it can make routine maintenance difficult, increasing the likelihood of undetected issues.
- Hazardous Conditions for Workers: Confined spaces in pits may expose workers to electrical, ergonomic, or environmental risks during inspections or repairs,
Regulatory Requirements
- Non-compliance with aviation and electrical safety standards (e.g., ICAO, FAA) can increase risks of accidents and lead to regulatory penalties.
- Regular Inspections: Periodic checks for structural integrity, water ingress, and electrical system functionality.
- Proper Sealing and Drainage: Ensure pits are sealed against water ingress and equipped with adequate drainage systems.
- Maintenance Protocols: Establish clear maintenance schedules and procedures for cleaning, repairs, and upgrades.
- High-Quality Materials: Use durable, non-conductive materials for pit covers and enclosures.
- Training: Ensure all personnel working near or in electrical pits are adequately trained on potential hazards and safety procedures.
By addressing these dangers with proactive measures, airports can minimize risks and ensure the safety of personnel, aircraft, and infrastructure.
📅 Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and safety expertise.
👉 Register now for this unmissable free session! http://malms.aero/tmstuesday
With over 10,000 hours of viewing, ‘TMS Tuesdays’ webinars continue to be the go to resource for discussing the latest AGL Safety and Compliance hot topics; including ICAO Regulatory Updates, ADM Part 4, Visual Aids updates, and Annex 19: Safety Management.
Whether you are a Designer, Supplier, Installer, Safety Manager, Airfield Electrician/Engineer, Operations or Regulator we hope you will find this webinar relevant and interesting.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights and elevate your airfield ground lighting maintenance practices. Reserve your spot now to stay ahead of the curve! ✈️🔧
Register now for Part 2 of this webinar by clicking the image below:
Did you miss Part 1?
Working on active aerodromes brings unique challenges – and potential hazards. As professionals dealing with high-voltage electrical installations and complex infrastructure, ensuring safety is critical.
But have you ever stopped to consider the hidden dangers lurking in water-filled pits and deep pots? Beyond the obvious, what risks might lie beneath the surface – and how can we effectively identify, mitigate, and protect ourselves against them?
Join Les Payne (B.Sc., AE [Water], M.W.M.Soc., MRSPH), an expert in water and infrastructure hazards, as he sheds light on these crucial topics. Gain valuable insights and practical strategies to elevate your awareness and stay safe in your role as an AGL technician.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
✅ Recognizing potential hazards in water-filled infrastructure.
✅ Effective methods for hazard management.
✅ Best practices to protect yourself and your team.
Watch now here:
Remember: