Love's Detail

There are various types of equipment, safety gear and tools an aircraft detailer will need to do his job effectively, safely, professionally and knowledgeably.  This list is not exhausted but will cover the basics and recommendations of equipment you should always have with you no matter what the detailing job.  If you have any recommendations that are not listed here please e-mail me and I will take your suggestions into consideration.

Thanks again.

JTL

*The most important equipment you will carry with you is safety gear! It is the first thing you will unload/put on and the last thing you load/take off.*

1. Safety Glasses/Goggles: Protecting your eyes is priority when it comes to being around an aircraft. A lot of components/parts on an aircraft protrude from the surface, such as static wicks, pitot tubes, etc., and low areas such as wings, flaps, tail, etc. could potentially cause injury to your face or eyes. Another obvious reason is to protect from chemical overspray or residue during the cleaning process.  A less obvious reason is professionalism. Wear these from start to finish!

2. Gloves: These protect your hands/skin from potentially corrosive chemicals that could irritate/stain your skin or dirty your hands. All kinds of chemicals are used; just because they are ok for the aircraft does not mean they are ok for your skin! Most people I know hate to use gloves because they get in the way. Here is my take on it, when you shake your customers hand, do you want them to cringe? You decide. Besides, it is a good safety practice that you should embrace.

3. Ear Protection:  You will be working around aircraft engines, apu's,  etc. These units have high decibel levels and could potentially damage your hearing. It is always good idea and in many cases required that you wear ear protection. Ear plugs are easy, cheap and work well. If you need any such protection most FBO's/Airports supply these for free or at low cost.

4. Reflective Vest:  High visibility reflective safety vest;  used at all times on an aircraft ramp, taxiway, runway, etc.  Extremely important at night! Without this vest it is unlikely you will be seen.

 5. Reflective Tape: In cases where you must make items in your inventory reflective for night work.

6. Safety Cones: It is a good idea to have these to block off the area you are working in if they are not already provided. Also, if you have a mobile unit vehicle near the aircraft you may want to block it off as well. Use reflective tape on them if not already applied.

7. Head Socks: These are usually used when buffing, sanding or deep cleaning an aircraft to keep chemical residue off of your face. Also useful in the winter months for added insulation from the cold.

8. Booties: Two purposes. 1. Useful during brightwork applications so that your shoes do not get covered in chemical residue. 2. Although it is rare, situations do sometimes require you to be directly on the surface of the aircraft to clean specific areas. (The wings are a good example on a Gulfstream V or a BBJ) For these times using booties will keep your rough rubber soles from cautioning damage to the surface of the aircraft (Interior or Exterior).  *Caution* Use of these booties also takes away most if not all of your traction! Use extreme caution and also make sure you are tethered to the proper safety device.

9. Dust Masks/Respirators:  For use during brightwork applications, interior detailing, and excess chemical mist or dust  (cleaning in an enclosed hangar).

10. Tyvek Polypropylene Suits: Used during brightwork applications only. This suit will keep your clothes and skin from getting chemical residue or dust on them.

11. Restraints/Tethering Device/Harness: For those rare times you may need to stand on any surface of an aircraft. Always make sure you are tethered to a proper safety harness. In most cases it is absolutely required!

Any recommendations? Please drop me a line.  Thanks again.

JTL