I am an engineer; how does drone legislation affect me, asks Ian Kiely, who has been working with Engineers Ireland to develop a one-day hands-on, in-person course 'Fundamentals of Drones in Engineering' with the aim of guiding your business into regulatory compliance, and which comes with eight CPD points.
Regardless of size or weight if a drone has a camera you need to be a registered. You can become a hobbyist or learner by attaining an A1/A3 certificate through the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).
If you plan to use a drone for work activities you must progress to a competent level, secure basic insurance and be compliant in managing your drone. These are requirements, not guidelines.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse
The implementation of EU drone regulations over the last two years has sent the industry into flux, now that we are emerging from that flux the IAA is closely monitoring activities and contacting those who are flaunting the regulations and prosecuting some cases. Ignorance of the law is no excuse.
Most drones come with a built-in map for guidance on where you can/can’t fly, while this can be useful, they are just guidelines provided by the manufacturer, the only reliable source of airspace information are the geographical zones set out by the regulator. Flying near an airport or in any restricted airspace comes with serious consequences.
Your drone must clearly display your IAA issued ID number attached to your craft and be remotely emitting this same number when you craft is in operation. Drones that have recently come on the market have this Remote Identification (RID) feature built in, older models must be fitted with a small device.
Do not fly over assemblies of people, keep a safe distance from persons not involved in your operation, use common sense when it comes to adverse weather and people’s privacy.
When hiring a third-party drone service provider, it is important to ask the right questions, seemingly legitimate operators will assure you they are up to speed, in reality they are putting your business at risk of scrutiny or penalty. These types generally cut other corners too and cause safety risks.
Drone Space Ltd has been working with Engineers Ireland to develop a one-day hands-on, in-person course 'Fundamentals of Drones in Engineering' with the aim of guiding your business into regulatory compliance, and which comes with eight CPD points.
The first course will take place on Wednesday, May 21, from 9am-5pm in IADT Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.
Feel free to get in touch if you have questions or are unsure of your current standing.
Drone specialist: Ian Kiely 087 982 4031 Ian@dronespace.ie