Tips and Tricks on Operating a Drone Safely
Drones are a fantastic invention that have many practical uses in the workplace and on site. From creating videos and photos to help realise your vision, to easily putting eyes on a hard to reach area, drones have stormed the market in the last 6 years and have become an increasingly useful tool in the modern workforce. However, unguarded propellers, inexperienced pilots and poor flying practice has led to an uptick of drone related accidents, so this week we’ve put together a few tips and tricks on how to operate your drone safely.
First, check wether you’re qualified to fly the drone. The majority of over the counter drones (anything over 250g and with a camera attached) are now required to be on a register, with a further license needed if you want to carry out work professionally. It can be a little bit of a grey area on wether a professional license is needed (especially for those self-employed) as the regulations are currently under review, which you can find on the DroneSafe Register.
Secondly, make sure you’re insured. There are many different types of drone insurance, you’ll want to insure both your device, and for any damage it can cause to people or persons. I recomend checking out the Drone Cover Club, they’ll answer any questions you might have.
And thirdly, make sure you plan your flight and how you’re going to execute the job. Proper planning prevents poor performance. Check in the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for any flight restrictions in your area, and roughly map where you intend to go. Thinking on how you’re going to get the results you need while the drone is on the ground will save you time and stress instead of having to do so when it’s in the air.
Finally, when you’re flying, remember:
Create a dedicated Take-off/Landing Pad for your drone, and ensure other staff know to keep it clear.
Check that your propellers are undamaged and secured correctly.
Check your battery is fully charged. You don’t want it running out when the drone is 400ft high.
Find a sensible place to stand. It’s pretty easy to get lost in the monitor of the drone, so make sure there are no hazards around you. It’s not uncommon for drone operators to find themselves at the attention of inquisitive cattle or wildlife.
Keep the drone below 400ft, anything higher is illegal.
The drone must stay within your line of sight- If you’re busy piloting, it’s helpful to have a spotter who can keep their eyes on the drone and warn of any incoming hazards (a flock of birds can bring down a drone).
Check your flight path for Flight Restricted Areas (FRZ’s) and keep your drone clear of them. It’s a very quick way to receive a police visit.
Keep your drone away from any person, residency or communal space or private business that hasn’t given you permission to film, or isn’t involved in your project. A berth of 150m is usually expected.
Be mindful of the privacy of other people in the vicinity- the law is still murky on drones with cameras, but you may be in breach of data protection laws.
In case of a bird strike or other malfunction, try to land the drone immediately. If it’s falling from the sky, shout “FALLING DRONE” constantly, to alert everybody nearby.
And remember, as in everything, safety is paramount. No job is worth risking the safety of yourself or others. If you think “this is going to be risky” then don’t do it. Re-think, Re-plan and Re-do in a safer way.
If you’re in any doubt, it’s best to hire a professional, who will come fully vetted, with a license and all the appropriate insurance, best able to help you realise your objectives and ensure a safe working environment.
