What must happen during aircraft overhaul?

• A. Use only a moisture meter to locate hidden hot spots.
• B. Wear TIC/FLIR or visual signs like blistered paint; protect origin/evidence; check concealed spaces; wear full PPE/SCBA.
• C. Check only visible areas; disregard concealed spaces.
• D. Do not wear PPE to expedite process; rely on odor cues.

Answer: (B)

Overhaul is about making sure there are no hidden hot spots that could rekindle the fire and preserving evidence for investigation. The best approach combines technology with careful, thorough inspection. Using a thermal imaging camera (TIC/FLIR) lets you detect heat behind panels and inside concealed spaces that aren’t visible to the eye, and you can corroborate those findings with visual signs like blistered paint or other heat damage. It’s essential to inspect concealed spaces such as engine compartments, wing cavities, wiring bays, and other hollow areas because heat often hides where it cannot be seen. Protecting the origin and evidence means securing and documenting where the fire started so investigators can study it later. Wearing full PPE with SCBA is critical for safety during overhaul, since heat, smoke, and potentially toxic gases can persist even after flames are out.

Relying only on a moisture meter won’t reveal hidden hot spots, and checking only visible areas misses heat and damage that can be concealed. Overlooking concealed spaces leaves the possibility of a rekindle. Not wearing PPE is dangerous because it exposes responders to residual heat, smoke, and hazards that can still be present during overhaul.