Using a Drone to Carry Out a Construction Survey: 3 Ways to Ensure Safe Operation
Drones are a type of unmanned aerial vehicle which can be used to carry out construction surveys. However, while aerial drones offer many advantages such as increased access to hard to reach places and improved data collection, they can also pose a risk to those working on a construction site. Below is a guide to 3 things you can do to improve the safety of your aerial drone when it is being used to carry out a survey.
Shrouded Propellers
During a construction survey, you may need to manoeuvre the drone close to surrounding structures in order to photograph different parts of a building. However, operating in such close proximity to a building creates a risk. If the drone's propellors come into contact with a structure, it could cause damage both to the structure and to the drone. You can reduce the risk of any damage by using a drone which is fitted with shrouded propellers. Shrouded propellers are fitted with metal rings which prevent the spinning propeller from coming into direct contact with the surrounding environment.
Proximity Detection
You can also improve the safety of the drone used during construction surveys by equipping it with proximity detection equipment. For example, a drone can be fitted be with sensors that alert the operator when the drone is flying close to the roof surface or if it is approaching walls or other obstacles. A detection system such as this will allow the drone pilot to adjust the controls to avoid crashing the aerial vehicles.
Return-to-Base Settings
If an aerial drone suddenly runs out of power or if it flies beyond the range of the remote control being used to operate it, it may suddenly fall out of the sky and create the risk of damage to the building you are surveying or to the contractors working on the ground. Accidents such as these can be prevented by programming the drone with return-to-base settings. These settings will command the drone to return to its start point in the event that the battery runs flat or the drone moves beyond the range of the control system.
Taking these measures will help you to carry out your construction survey safely, protecting the surrounding structures and your staff and any on-site contractors. If you would like further information about using an aerial drone to carry out surveys, you should contact a construction surveying company today.
