It can be tempting to save time and money by conducting a compliance inspection using a drone. But there are limitations to go along with the benefits.
Over recent years, drones and other remote aerial vehicles have become advanced to the point just about anyone can operate one. Paired with that comes the motivation to find new ways to have them supplement or replace the work done by people in high-risk environments.
And while it may seem tempting to replace the need for accessing a height safety system to complete a compliance inspection with a drone survey, it is important to understand what can and what cannot be done with a drone.
What is required for a compliance inspection?
Compliance inspections of most height safety and fall protections should be completed at least every 12 months. There are some situations where a more frequent inspection schedule is recommended, but the general cadence is for inspections on an annual basis.
The inspections need to be completed by, according to AS/ANZ 1891.4, a “competent person”.
During the inspection, items such as anchor points, static lines and rigid rails will be looked at. The inspector will check for signs of deterioration, that the installation was completed correctly, and that the layout of the system allows the worker to stay protected while using it.
In some circumstances, anchor points will be load tested (also called proof testing) to ensure their fixture into the structure is suitable for their intended use.
There is scope for some aspects of an inspection to potentially be undertaken using a drone. However, anyone seeking to do so should also be aware of their limitations.
What could drones be used for?
In general, a drone can be used – and have already been used – for undertaking general dilapidation surveys of roofs. These can be used to identify areas where the structural integrity of the roof itself (or lack thereof) could lead to a height safety system being unsafe to use.
HSE has actually used drones for this exact purpose in the past and found them incredibly useful for getting a general overview of a roof without needing to directly access it.
Drone inspections could also be used to assist in checking roof anchor point and static line layouts. These can then be used to check where the system allows safe access and whether these cover areas workers may need to use in order to conduct maintenance, cleaning or other work.
In cases where additional system components may be needed to facilitate access, imagery captured from a done can be used to determine where those components can be installed. Having accurate, up to date imagery that shows the existing system allows the system extension to be designed such that it blends seamlessly.
Limitations of drones in height safety
As useful as a drone could be in completing some aspects of a height safety compliance inspection, there are several areas where they simply cannot replace a physical inspection by a person.
While drones can perform general dilapidation surveys of a roof, they cannot be used to visually check the installation of a roof anchor point. They cannot touch and feel the anchor, to check it is firmly installed into the structure, or to see if the structure itself is capable of supporting the load that could be generated in the event of a fall.
It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to use a drone to check the anchor’s fixtures to ensure they are intact, correctly installed and not corroded or damaged.
For anchors that require pull testing, this cannot be undertaken using a drone.
Generally speaking, drone surveys cannot get in and around fall protection and height safety systems in a sufficient manner such that the ability of the system to respond correctly in the event of an accident can be determined.
Physical inspection needs to be physical
The proliferation and ease of use of drones have been a game changer for many industries. However, when it comes to the ongoing compliance of height safety and fall protection systems, the limitations are far in excess of the advantages.
A physical inspection, by a competent person (like the compliance inspectors from Height Safety Engineers) is the only way to accurately capture the state of a system. Physical inspections and physical inspections alone can check its compliance with the requirements of work health and safety legislation as well as the Australian standards that govern fall protection.
Your partners in protecting people
Height Safety Engineers have a team of experienced, dedicated height safety compliance inspectors that can conduct compliance inspections for your building. No matter where you are, no matter what sort of system you have.
Start your safety journey with us today by calling 1300 884 978, by emailing enquiries@heightsafety.net or by filling out the contact form.
