Part 139 Safety Self-Inspection Program, Don't Just Go Through The Motions (Part 2, The Inspection,Safety Areas)

As we continue our Safety Self-Inspection Series, we will turn our focus to Part 139.309, Safety Areas. All runways and taxiways available for Part 139 Air Carrier Aircraft must have an established safety area. Tab five in your approved Airport Certification Manual will explain your inspection procedures, and state your safety area dimensions.

§ 139.309 Safety areas.
Each certificate holder must maintain its safety areas as follows:
(1) Each safety area must be cleared and graded and have no potentially hazardous ruts, humps, depressions, or other surface variations.
(2) Each safety area must be drained by grading or storm sewers to prevent water accumulation.
(3) Each safety area must be capable under dry conditions of supporting snow removal and aircraft rescue and firefighting equipment and of supporting the occasional passage of aircraft without causing major damage to the aircraft.
(4) No objects may be located in any safety area, except for objects that need to be located in a safety area because of their function. These objects must be constructed, to the extent practical, on frangibly mounted structures of the lowest practical height, with the frangible point no higher than 3 inches above grade.
(c) FAA Advisory Circulars contain methods and procedures for the configuration and maintenance of safety areas acceptable to the Administrator.
A/C 150/5300-13 Airport Designs
A/C 150/5320-5 Airport Drainage

As stated above, safety areas must remain clear of all objects other then those deemed necessary by the FAA. After construction activity in or near a safety area, an inspection of the area shall be performed. Construction work is allowed in a safety area, but no closer then 200ft off the centerline of the runway, if a NOTAM is issued.
Use caution when inspection your safety areas, after rain/snow is not the best time to drive in those areas. We do not want to cause any damage.

Safety Area Inspections are a key component in your Self Inspection Program, also for the safety on your airfield.

In our next post of the "Safety Inspection Program" we will discuss Part 139.311 Markings, Signs, and Lighting.


DON'T JUST GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS!