Enhanced technology and versatility have led to the soaring popularity of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones in recent years. Early adopters quickly recognized the many uses of these contemporary aircraft in recreational and business settings—and the construction sector is no exception.
In fact, the use of drones is projected to expand in the construction industry, especially now that Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Regulations no longer requires operators to have a pilot license when using drones for commercial purposes. Ever wondered why drones had become an increasingly common sight in construction sites? Let’s take a look at some of the practical applications of these UAVs:
For Building Surveys
Building surveyors know just how important—and difficult—it is to have visibility in this work line. Often, gaining access to the roof of a building means climbing a ladder or scaffolding. Drones are faster, safer, and more efficient alternatives. Instead of trying to reach the rooftop in one piece, surveyors now have the option to mount a camera on the drone and perform the survey on the ground. By using drones to conduct building surveys, operators minimize associated slip, trip, and fall hazards.
For Aerial Photos
Contractors of large-scale construction projects usually hire helicopters to take aerial photos of the site. These detailed images are crucial in terms of production, planning, and logistics. But no one can deny how costly it is to book a helicopter for aerial photography. Drones have proven themselves useful in capturing such images—at a fraction of the cost. With this in mind, it’s not surprising that more construction firms are choosing the more convenient and less expensive option.
For Safety Inspections
Not all construction hazards are easy to detect. Most of the time, health and safety risks lurk in areas that are physically hard to reach. Construction companies have taken advantage of drones to lessen site inspections' hassles and pinpoint potential issues more efficiently. Aside from inspecting health and safety risks that are challenging to see from the ground, drone footage can also be used as a visual aid during workplace orientations.
For Progress Reports
Tracking the progress of a complex construction project is easier said than done. For a contractor or administrator, this involves taking photos of different areas of the site. Drones eliminate the tedious legwork and provide stakeholders with an easier way to visualize the development. Consecutive photos of the structure may even be compiled to create a time-lapse video! Furthermore, project superintendents can use simultaneous recordings from the drone to facilitate surveillance and communication.
It’s not hard to see why the industry is jumping on the drone train: UAVs optimize project costs, minimize hazard exposure, and promote construction safety. If the favorable feedback from the construction sector is any indication, then it seems that these technological innovations are here to stay. Are you ready to give these construction trends a shot? Share your thoughts in the comments section!
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