UAV DRONES FOR CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS

DRONES IN CONSTRUCTION

advantages of drones in The construction sector;

1. Building surveys

Building surveyors will know that most building surveys require visibility of the buildings roof to identify its condition and assess any defects. In most instances getting access to a roof can be difficult and can involve the erection of a scaffold, use of a cherry picker or ladders. Using a drone to perform the survey can save time, money and reduce health and safety risks.

2. Construction site inspections

Carrying out inspections on a busy construction site can be dangerous and complicated. The ability for a drone to carry out a visual inspection of high-risk areas can save time and reduce health and safety risks. Drone footage can be recorded safety and then sent onto the relevant trades for tender.

3. Health and safety inductions

Site inductions usually involve a pre-scripted talk or recorded video. Using a drone to fly over the site can show new site operatives health and safety risks in real-time, enabling site managers to demonstrate moving vehicles, moving cranes, active excavation areas and so on.

4. Maintenance inspections

Carrying out planned or reactive maintenance inspections on high structures such as bridges, towers, roofs and scaffolding, can involve costly access arrangements, and personnel working at height. Drones can provide a quick and easy way of carrying out these inspections, feeding back real-time footage to the engineer or surveyor on the ground.

5. Project progress reports

Construction progress reports are often prepared monthly to record site progress against the project programme. These reports often involve the surveyor or contract administrator taking multiple photographs of different parts of the site. A regular drone flight can provide a faster way of recording and visualising project progress. Through a series of aerial shots and high definition video, providing a better insight into the progress that has been made.

6. Promotional photography

Professional aerial photography is becoming more important in the way construction companies promote their business, especially with the various social media platforms available. The ability to capture impressive 4K video footage and photos from unique angles provide an interesting insight into a project or building, ideal for marketing material. In particular, it can be a good tool for estate agents looking to show impressive shots of a property or building they are trying to sell or lease.

7. Thermal Imaging recording 

Drones can be used to take aerial thermal imaging recordings to assess potential cold spots in buildings or hot spots in areas holding electrical components. This can give engineers and surveyors essential information when trying to identify and rectify building defects.