CAN DRONES REDUCE CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS?

Drones have proven their potential to make a huge cultural impact by surveying farm land, limiting the spread of forest fires, strengthening security protocols and — preventing construction accidents?

Yes, the flying devices known as “drones” are making a reputation for improving working conditions at construction sites.

Here are a few ways new drone technology is able to identify and minimize safety risks at construction sites before workers are put in harm’s way.

Perform HIgh up Inspections

Drones, sometimes called unmanned aerial vehicles (or UAVs), have the advantage of surveying high up locations for potential safety risks. Drones that are used to conduct a pre-inspection of dangerously high areas, such as on scaffolding, rooftops or industrial chimneys can help assure that workers are on safe structures.

Detect Heat Issues

Drones may also help prevent faulty wiring, gas and machine hazards in the construction industry. If the drone is equipped with thermal sensors, it can detect causes for concern, such as hotspots, delamination, spalling and moist areas.

Forward looking infrared (FLIR) sensors can also be used to spot overheating in electrical joints or faulty insulation. If these conditions are pre-existing to the construction site, workers can discover the hazards by using the drones to inspect the scene first.

Prevent Falls

Ground-based LiDAR surveying systems are traditionally used to detect the stability of an outdoor worksite. However, for a more affordable cost, construction companies may be able to survey areas for potential falls, rock slides, falling debris and other dangers using drones.

Conduct More Safety Inspections

Drones can be programmed to conduct inspections regularly, meaning risks may be identified before they become more hazardous or cause an injury. Workers, meanwhile, can focus on assuming their responsibilities.

Relay safety Info

Information from these inspections may also be clearer coming from a drone. Supervisors and employers can see images of exactly what issues are present on the site, improving the accountability of the information. Drones are also able to collect and transmit the data more quickly, allowing workers to spend more time completing the project.

In 2016, 21 percent of worker fatalities were in construction, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). However, as drones rise in popularity, the construction industry may become a safer place to work.

In the event that an accident does happen to you or a co-worker, remember to contact a workers’ compensation attorney for help. A lawyer can help you determine whether you are eligible for compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, transportation and more.