Drones in the Construction Industry
PB Aerial Imaging is a company that specialises in aerial photography and mapping using drones. Drones are a powerful tool for construction site safety because they can quickly and easily survey a site from above, providing valuable data that can help identify potential hazards and improve overall safety.
Why are drones moving into construction?
With the PwC’s membership network report Skies Without Limits revealed that drone technology is expected to uplift the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the UK’s construction and manufacturing industries by £8.6bn to 2030, through new innovation, improved productivity and cost-effectiveness.
How is drone innovation influencing the construction industry?
It’s the wealth of functionality and accessibility offered by drones which are really building innovation and influence in the construction industry. In fact, using drones for surveying and mapping is only the start when it comes to the range of services a drone can provide in the construction industry:
Initial site survey and measurement
Accessibility and accuracy are helping drones to establish their role in surveying and the reproduction of accurate measuring. This has particular applications for initial surveys, when access to all parts of the site may not be possible. Footage from initial surveys also helps to inform impact assessments and provide historical records.Construction mapping and 3D modelling
Alongside surveys, innovation in drone software systems allow accurate contour maps and 3D models to be produced, based on footage and data gathered:
The process of high-resolution aerial imagery (Orthomosaics) 3D modelling comes in various formats but essentially enables images of the whole project area to be captured and merged into a comprehensive model of the area.
2D images can also be generated based on the mapping technology.
Whilst 3D imagery offers full model benefits, 2D images allow accurate measurements and adjustment.
Progress monitoring
Many of the latest drone systems incorporate real-time monitoring, for enhanced security and in-the-moment evaluation, response and planning. Drones make the production of weekly progress maps far quicker, easier and less costly than traditional ways. They also facilitate greater and easier information exchanges between construction companies and their clients, boosting overall efficiency and communication.
Security and maintenance of construction sites
Drone surveys can also support the logistics and asset management of construction sites and enhance overall security. Breaches in security can be quickly attended via drone and the situation ascertained. For example, an issue with fencing after extreme weather could be quickly identified so that temporary fencing can be installed, reducing the risk of theft and trespass.
The use of additional camera features such as thermal imagery means that problems such as out-of-hours security or identifying overheating or fire can be raised from a safe distance immediately. Data can also provide audit trails in the event of on-site maintenance and security problems.
Risk and safety management
The unmanned aspect of UAVs holds particular relevance for construction sites. Any areas considered too risky for sending in personnel, such as dangerous structures, areas where hazardous materials are leaking or where there’s risk of fire from flammable materials, mean using a drone presents a safer option as the drone operator can remain at a safe distance.
What’s more, in 2016-2017, falls on site were the second highest cause of fatalities in the UK construction industry (HSE), so keeping workers on the ground and sending the drones up instead can contribute to overall worker safety and risk management.Reaching inaccessible or unsafe areas, for survey and safety monitoring purposes
As mentioned, where areas are completely inaccessible, drones can be used to access the area. Where there’s uncertainty about safety issues, drone technology can be used to save time as well as minimise risk; for example, drones can analyse roof structures from above, then from the underside through accessing eaves and loft areas – much safer than sending surveyors or workers up onto areas of negligible safety.
Here are a few examples of how PB Aerial Imaging can help your Construction Project
Aerial Mapping services.
From High Resolution Orthomosaics through to bare earth DEM production
Construction site Monitoring.
Weekly, Monthly progress build progress photography and videography
Installation of Timelapse cameras
3d modelling of the site
3d modelling of the site throughout the build timescale
PR and Marketing
Both Aerial and Ground based Photography services
Safety monitoring
Live Safety monitoring of key stage events
