Drones are a relatively new addition to the construction industry, and with their introduction comes the need for specialized drone vendors to provide high-quality solutions to businesses. However, choosing the right drone vendor can be confusing and overwhelming. Considering that drones are a brand-new trade/CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) code in the construction industry, it can be difficult to know what to look for or even how to find and hire the right company.
"Drone use in the construction industry continues to be one of the fastest growing trends, with usage rising by 239% year over year. The technology offers far more uses than just aerial photography for real estate and commercial efforts."
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Often there is little knowledge, regulations, or set minimums regarding the use of drones in construction. This means most businesses must entrust the drone vendor they choose is operating within compliance and performing the requested services safely and accurately. These unspoken levels of assumption will not work in the long run. Experienced pilots take many factors into consideration when preparing for a flight such as:
- Weather Reports
- Flight System Pre-Check
- Firmware Updates
- Flight Software and Other Applications
- Batteries
- Specialized Drone Equipment
- Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR)
- Traveling To the Flying Site and Set Up
In this article, we will outline five key steps construction businesses should consider when selecting a drone vendor. By following these steps, businesses can ensure they will choose a vendor who is experienced in the industry, meets compliance requirements, prioritizes safety, and can provide tailored solutions to enhance construction operations.
1. Do They Have Experience Within Your Industry?
The first step in choosing a drone vendor for your construction business is to consider the experience they have within your industry. It is important to find a vendor who has worked with similar companies in the past or who has experience with your competitors. This will ensure that the vendor is familiar with the unique challenges and requirements of the construction industry.
When evaluating potential vendors, it can be a good idea to ask for sample work or case studies that are relevant to your business. This will allow you to see the quality of their work and whether they are able to provide the specific solutions you might need. For example, if you require aerial surveys of a construction site, ask to see examples of similar projects they have completed in the past.
Choosing an inexperienced drone vendor could result in subpar service, which can ultimately impact the success of a construction project. Therefore, it’s essential to select a vendor with a proven track record of delivering high-quality drone solutions within the construction industry and businesses like yours.
What's included in YOUR GUIDE...
A Proven Roadmap of Success for Implementing Drones in Construction.
A List of Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring Drone Service Providers.
How to Persuade Your Leadership Team to Leverage Drones on Every Jobsite.
2. Do They Meet Your Insurance Minimums?
The second step in choosing a drone vendor for your construction business is to consider whether the vendor meets your insurance minimums. Insurance coverage is a critical component of any construction project, and it is essential that the drone vendor you select has adequate insurance to protect both themselves and your business in case of accidents or incidents on the job site. Drone pilots may also require special aviation related insurance that covers the risks unique to drones and their equipment. There are several types of insurance coverage to consider such as:
- Workers’ Compensation
- Automobile Liability
- Employers’ Liability
- Commercial General Liability
- Commercial Drone Insurance
"Commercial general liability insurance will protect your company from expenses associated with accidental bodily injuries or property damage caused to third parties while operating your drones."
Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to cover the costs associated with work-related injuries or illnesses, while automobile liability insurance covers any accidents or incidents involving the vendor’s vehicles. Employers’ liability insurance provides coverage in case an employee is injured on the job, and commercial general liability insurance covers a broad range of potential risks, such as property damage or bodily injury. By ensuring that your drone vendor meets your insurance minimums, you can protect your business from potential liability issues and minimize any financial risks associated with any drone project.
Related Article – How Drones Identify and Resolve Workplace Disputes in Construction
3. Are They in Compliance with Federal Drone Laws?
The third step in choosing a drone vendor for your construction business is to ensure that the vendor is following federal drone laws. Drone technology has rapidly evolved in recent years, and it’s essential to ensure that your drone vendor is well-versed in the regulations governing drone operations. These regulations can change rapidly so it is imperative the drone vendor’s information is up to date.
One of the most critical regulations is FAA Part 107, which outlines the rules for commercial drone operations. This includes requirements for obtaining a remote pilot certificate, operating drones within visual line-of-sight, and restrictions on flying over people and property.
"Part 107 requires all drone operators to pass a written test and obtain an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate. The rules also limit the times and places drones may be flown, as well as their altitude and weight."
Source: Drone Part 107 vs Recreational Rules | 2023 Updated
In addition to federal regulations, it’s essential to consider any local laws or ordinances that may apply to your construction project. This may include restrictions on flying drones in certain areas or requirements for obtaining permits or approvals from local authorities.
Another important consideration is airspace authorizations. Depending on the location of your project, your drone vendor may need to obtain additional authorization from the FAA or other entities to operate drones in specific airspace.
When evaluating potential drone vendors, ask about their experience with FAA regulations and any local laws that may apply to your project. Make sure that they have the necessary certifications and authorizations to operate drones in your project area.
4. Are they Trained in Worksite Safety & Risk Management?
The fourth step in choosing a drone vendor is to ensure the vendor is trained in worksite safety and risk management. As drones become more prevalent in the construction industry, it’s essential to ensure that the vendor you choose is committed to safety and minimizing risk. In the construction industry, safety is paramount. Contractors are required to implement strict safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of their workers and reduce liability. This includes things like personal protective equipment (PPE), site-specific safety plans, risk management, safety policies, and more.
When hiring a drone vendor for your construction business, it’s crucial to make sure they are trained in worksite safety and risk management. Failure to do so could put your business at considerable risk. A drone pilot who is unfamiliar with these practices may not recognize potential hazards or may not take the necessary precautions to ensure safety on the job site.
By not complying with safety protocols, a drone pilot could compromise the integrity of your construction project. Accidents, injuries, and damages resulting from unsafe drone operations could lead to costly litigation, project delays, and damage to the company’s reputation.
"Any device or technology that enables better surveillance and monitoring at construction sites can help improve safety on construction sites. The ability to monitor and maintain a construction site from a distance and in real-time is a giant leap forward to a safer and more efficient building process."
One way to assess a vendor’s commitment to safety is by looking for an OSHA certification. OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is a federal agency that sets and enforces safety standards in the workplace. By obtaining OSHA certification, a drone vendor demonstrates their commitment to safety and compliance with federal regulations.
Another important consideration is the vendor’s experience and expertise in worksite safety and risk management. Look for vendors who have experience working in construction environments and can demonstrate a track record of implementing safety protocols to minimize risk.
Some key safety and risk management considerations include identifying and mitigating potential hazards, ensuring that all personnel on the job site are aware of drone operations, that operations are highly visible to workers, and establishing clear communication protocols for drone operations.
5. Are they Equipped to Provide the Solutions You Need?
The final step, and perhaps one of the most important aspects of working with a drone vendor is to assess whether they are equipped to provide the solutions and deliverables you need. It’s essential to choose a vendor who has the necessary expertise, equipment, and training to deliver the specific drone services and datasets that your project requires.
Different drone services and datasets require different skill sets, equipment, and training. For example, if you require survey-grade drone 2D maps that you plan to use for project visualization, engineering, and design, you need a vendor with a specific level of expertise and equipment. If the data they provide is incorrect, it could have serious consequences for your project. The same goes with thermal images, LiDAR scans, creating digital twins, and overlaying site plans.
It’s also important to assess the quality of the product that the vendor provides. Will they be using the latest cutting-edge technology, or are they using outdated equipment? You need to ensure that the vendor is equipped with the best equipment and technology to provide you with the best results possible.
Additionally, you should consider the vendor’s experience and expertise in delivering the specific drone services and datasets that you require. Look for vendors who have a track record of delivering high-quality results in the specific areas that you need.
Getting Started: Hiring a Drone Contractor for Your Construction Business
Choosing the right drone vendor for your construction business requires careful consideration of several key factors. You must ensure the vendor has experience within your industry, meets insurance minimums, complies with federal laws, is trained in worksite safety and risk management, and is equipped to provide the specific solutions you need.
If you’re in the market for a drone vendor for your construction business, make sure to do your research and take the time to evaluate each potential partner carefully. At The Drone Life we offer comprehensive and customized solutions for all your aerial needs, from mapping and surveying to inspection and monitoring. Our team of expert pilots is fully licensed and equipped with the latest drone technology, ensuring that we can deliver accurate, high-quality results for your business. Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can help take your construction business to the next level.
What's included in YOUR GUIDE...
A Proven Roadmap of Success for Implementing Drones in Construction.
A List of Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring Drone Service Providers.
How to Persuade Your Leadership Team to Leverage Drones on Every Jobsite.
