FEATURE DRONES
Drones can be a powerful tool in your business toolbox, offering a variety of practical applications from surveying to capturing images of important projects THE DRONES g y LAUNCHING from surveying to mportant projects
Y ou might never have flown a drone before but you’ve almost definitely seen one airborne. In construction, they have become an important tool for carrying out surveys – often incorporating LIDAR (light detection and ranging) for added efficiency and accuracy – measuring quantities of materials such as piles of rubble, monitoring the progress of a project and using thermal imaging to identify where heat is escaping from a building. “The efficiency and accuracy that nd drones bring to construction projects have revolutionised the industry,” says drone pilot Keiran Barnaby, who is the Founder of FMB Associate Member Reel Cut Drones Solutions. “Drones allow for better planning, cost savings, and improved safety measures when surveying, monitoring and mapping construction sites,” he adds. By applying drone technology, Barnaby has streamlined workflows, reduced costs and enhanced project outcomes. “The ability to capture high-resolution imagery enables better decision-making and facilitates effective communication among stakeholders. “Integrating drones into construction practices not only improves productivity but also promotes innovation in the industry.” Major benefits of using drones include: efficiency through rapid data collection; increased safety by minimising human e y me
cost savings by reducing the need for manual labour and equipment; and versatility – from aerial
photography and videography to infrastructure inspection and disaster management.
Challenges to consider Using drones is not without challenges. Barnaby notes regulatory and airspace restrictions, along with compliance issues and privacy concerns. Then there are practical matters such as difficult weather – high winds or rain – which can limit operations and data accuracy. “Drone hardware and software require continuous maintenance and updates, posing logistical and financial challenges,” Barnaby explains. “Limited battery life and payload capacity can also restrict the duration and scope of drone missions. “Lastly, the potential for technical failures or cybersecurity threats underscores the importance of robust risk management strategies when integrating drones into operations.” It is a legal requirement to register for flyer and operator identification before flying a drone. Even once that is done there
risk in hazardous environments; improved accuracy in surveying and mapping tasks;
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