[Al Skierkiewicz]

OK, This is going to be a short list for now as I respond to a post elsewhere and some of the reports coming in from regionals this weekend. I know I have said this before but please make sure everyone you know sees this.

Materials that are not safe or cannot be used on FRC robots.
1. Uncoated lead used for ballast. Even if your build location allows lead in it's raw form, if you plan on traveling, the lead needs to be sealed. You can paint it, dip it in tool handle coatings, you can even injection mold plastic around it. Many locations and venues list it as hazardous in it's raw form. If you are using sealed lead, it may not be machined, drilled, cut, etc. while at an event.
2. Mercury in any form. It is hazardous in this country and many other countries. Just shipping it requires specific methods and documentation. Small quantities may be handled differently depending on locale. R8 specifically disallows any switches or contacts that use mercury. If a team happens to spill mercury onto the field, it becomes a hazardous materials site.
3. Any ballast attached using duct tape, ty-wraps, or adhesives. Please think about what you are doing. If the ballast comes loose, your robot, other robots and people near your robot will receive the consequence of your actions. Ballast must be attached with known good fasteners, to the frame of your robot. Use of 1/4" hardware or larger, through the ballast and into the frame, is ideal. In some cases, stainless steel hose clamps may be sufficient but it is up to the LRI at your event to make that call. If the Head Ref or FTA see an issue, they may alert the LRI to check your installation again.
4. Anything that can spill onto the field is also not allowed. This means sand, ball bearings, shot, pebbles, or water or anything else that you can think of.