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During the repair of any fuel cell, entering and working in the dark confines of a fuel cell is a difficult job at best. Not only do you have to overcome the confined spaces, but also the entry in itself is dangerous work. The technicians must train for most eventualities, which includes unconscious extraction. On Tuesday 10th of May 2005, during the fuel cell repair of CP140101, Corporal Paul Gendre was in fuel tank #2 to repair the Up Lock for the left main landing gear. While positioning himself, he was also conducting a cursory inspection of the entire tank. In a dark and remote part of the fuel tank, he noticed 16 Hi Lock fasteners were missing their locking collars and the sealant had been removed from the surrounding area. He proceeded to report the defect and proper actions were taken to fix the problem. Working under very hazardous conditions, Corporal Gendre discovered, investigated and reported a serious maintenance deficiency on a CP-140 fuel tank. Due to his keen insight, diligence and technical prowess, Corporal Gendre averted what may have been a serious impact on the airworthiness of this aircraft. The professional conduct displayed by Corporal Gendre is of the highest order and is to be commended for his Airmanship. |