Ubiquitous drone use raises concerns over risks and privacy

More companies are benefiting from the use of drones, but unclear regulations expose them to even greater risks

Construction & Engineering

By Allie Sanchez

Because of their efficiency and cost effectiveness, more construction companies are finding applications for unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, onsite, a recent article from attorneys Stephen Hartzell and Arty Bolick suggests.

Drones are expected to become even more ubiquitous as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) releases the regulatory framework covering the operation of drones in commercial enterprise this August.

Along with other industries, construction companies have found use for drones in aerial site photography and videography – as an alternative for inspection in risky and costly areas – monitoring environmental factors, and safety monitoring and OSHA compliance.

However, the report authors pointed out that under the current ambiguous regulatory framework, the use of drones does not come without risk. Many construction companies have toed the line and are getting proper licenses to operate drones on their sites, but many still use the technology illegally. To do so exposes them to fines and penalties under existing FAA rules, which could run up to millions of dollars.

Despite their seeming ease of use, drones require trained professionals to operate them, and should be operated within the line of sight of the pilot. Otherwise, they could run off course and cause damage to persons and property, especially in neighboring areas, the report said.

Privacy issues are also concerning, as drone operators are currently required to secure the permission of the persons and property they will photograph or record on video; however, this is not always possible. The presence of drones has also been proven to cause alarm among owners of neighboring properties.

Thus, the authors cited the need to notify neighbors beforehand of the use of the aircraft in their area. With subcontractors, they said, it is better to err on the side of caution and alert them to its use on site and include a clause covering its use during construction and operations.
 

Keep up with the latest news and events

Join our mailing list, it’s free!