Bees360 Docs

# SECTION 7: SAFETY OPERATIONS AND ACCIDENT REPORTING POLICY

A safe operation policy is an integral component for the safe operation of a commercial drone. This safety policy contains basic operating policies and procedures to ensure the safe operation of commercial drones for Bees360. This policy focuses on the safety of 1099 drone operators, the general public, and property owned by others. Bees360 strictly adheres to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements governing remote pilots, equipment, and operational rules. The goal of this operational policy is to reduce or eliminate accidents, injuries, and property damage by following safe operating practices. This policy is provided so each 1099 drone operator is aware of his or her responsibilities.

Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all Bees360 1099 drone operators. Violations of this policy may result in actions, up to and including contract suspension with Bees360. Any deviations from this policy must be immediately brought to the attention of the Vice President of Operations or Human Resources.

# 1. General Responsibilities

Bees360 is responsible for ensuring that safety policies and procedures are established and enforced consistently and that 1099 drone operators have been trained on the company’s policies and procedures.

BeesInspectors (you) are responsible for:

  • Selecting drones appropriate for the work to be performed.
  • Ensuring drones are properly maintained and safe for operation.
  • Ensuring they are FAA Certified.
  • Ensuring they have received appropriate “flight” training on the drone they will use to complete their daily work.
  • Maintaining appropriate FAA registrations and drone insurance.
  • Ensuring the unmanned aircraft system weighs less than 55 lbs. (including payload) 1099 drone operators are responsible for following all FAA requirements, procedures, and company guidelines established in this Safety Policy.
  • 1099 drone operators will also ensure the drone is properly maintained for safe operation and kept in a secure location when not in use.

# 2. Definitions

Control Station means an interface used by the remote pilot to control the flight path of the small unmanned aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the governing body that sets regulations for the safe operation of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the airspace of the United States and certification requirements for remote pilots.
Remote Pilot means the person manipulating the operating controls of the small unmanned aircraft.
Small Unmanned Aircraft means an unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft.
Small Unmanned Aircraft System means a small unmanned aircraft and its associated elements (including communication links and the components that control the small-unmanned aircraft) that are required for the safe and efficient operation of the small unmanned aircraft in the national airspace system.
Unmanned Aircraft means an aircraft operated without the possibility of direct human interaction from within or on the aircraft.

# 3. BeesInspector Qualifications

  • BeesInspectors must have a valid unmanned aircraft system rating/certificate for the operation of the equipment by passing an FAA knowledge examination.
  • BeesInspectors must complete recurrent training courses, as required by the FAA.
  • BeesInspectors understand airspace classifications and notification requirements.
  • BeesInspectors understand the FAA Best Practices for Privacy, Transparency, and Accountability
  • BeesInspectors shall have no medical or physical conditions that can affect the safe operation of the small unmanned aircraft system. Impairments that could influence operation include, but are not limited to:
    • The temporary or permanent loss of dexterity needed to operate the control system.
    • The inability to maintain “see and avoid” diligence due to blurred vision.
    • The inability to maintain proper situational awareness due to illness Commercial Unmanned Aircraft (DRONE) Safe Operation Policy and/or use of medications that caution the user to not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking.
    • A debilitating condition, such as a migraine headache or moderate-to severe body aches or pains, that would render the remote pilot unable to manipulate the controls.
    • A hearing or speaking impairment that would inhibit the remote pilot from communicating.
    • Consuming alcohol within the previous eight hours.
    • Being under the influence of alcohol.
    • Using a drug that affects the person’s mental or physical capabilities.

# 4. BeesInspectors Safety Rules

BeesInspectors must operate the drone in a safe manner, adhering to federal, state, and local laws. Remote pilot safety rules include:

  • BeesInspectors are encouraged to read the owner’s manual thoroughly to become familiar with all features, limitations, and recommended maintenance.

  • Be courteous and respectful to motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and property owners/tenants.

  • Do not engage in distracting activities while flying the drone, such as

    talking on a phone, texting, eating, or any other activity that takes your

    attention away from operating the drone.

  • Do not operate a drone while attempting to drive a vehicle.

  • Do not allow unauthorized individuals to operate the drone on your behalf.

  • Do not operate the drone while impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs,

    medications, illness, or fatigue.

  • Do not operate the drone in or around natural disasters, emergency responses, or related situations.

  • Do not operate the drone in an unethical fashion.

  • Do not, under any circumstances, climb onto the roof.

# 5. Pre-Flight Operational/Safety Check

The remote pilot will complete a pre-flight operational/safety check in accordance with the manufacturer’s inspection procedures. The pre-flight check includes these visual and functional checks:

  • Visual condition of the unmanned aircraft system components.
  • Airframe structure, including all flight control surfaces, lights, and linkages.
  • Registration markings for proper display and legibility.
  • Moveable surfaces, including airframe and attachment points.
  • Servo motor(s), including attachment points.
  • Propulsion system, including power plant, propellers, rotors, and ducted fans.
  • Verifies all systems have adequate energy supply for the intended. operation and are functioning properly (battery).
  • Control link transceiver, communication/navigation data link transceiver, and antennas.
  • Display panel if used is operating properly.
  • Ground support equipment, including any takeoff and landing systems for proper operation.
  • The control link is functioning properly between the aircraft and control system.
  • Check for correct movement of control surfaces using the control system.
  • Onboard navigation and communication systems data links.
  • Flight termination system if installed.
  • Equipment, such as a camera, is securely attached.
  • Verify communication with the unmanned aircraft system and that the unmanned aircraft system has acquired the GPS location.
  • Start the propellers to inspect for any imbalance or irregular operation.
  • Verify controller operation for heading and altitude.
  • Verify any obstructions that may interfere with operation of the unmanned aircraft system.
  • At a controllable altitude, fly within range of interference and recheck all controls and safety.

If any operational or safety-related problems are found during the pre-flight operational/safety check, repairs should be made before the completion of the planned flight. If repairs cannot be made onsite, the flight should be rescheduled for a later time so appropriate repairs can be completed. Ongoing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of the unmanned aircraft system and its components (controller) should be completed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes software updates provided by the manufacturer.

# 6. Pre-flight Planning and Preparation

The BeesInspector is responsible for obtaining any waivers required for the intended business use of the 1099 pilots unmanned aircraft from the FAA. Waiver requests are available at https://www.faa.gov/uas/commercial_operators/part_107_waivers (opens new window).

Be aware of traffic patterns when operating within the vicinity of an airport.

Check for any NOTAMs (Notice to Airman) to determine if any areas where the drone may be flying are affected.

Complete an assessment of the operating environment, paying particular attention to these items:

  • Local weather conditions (heavy winds, rain, lightening)
  • Local airspace and any flight restrictions (NOTAMS)
  • Heavy pedestrian traffic
  • Heavy traffic areas
  • Radio/Cell towers
  • Power lines, tunnels, bridges, and overpasses
  • Trees, buildings, and personal property

# 7. In-Flight Safety Rules

  • Fly the unmanned aircraft system during daylight hours.
  • Always maintain visual sight of the drone unless a waiver has been obtained before the flight.
  • Do not fly the unmanned aircraft system higher than 400 feet above ground level unless flown within a 400-foot radius of a structure.
  • Maintain a minimum visibility of three statute miles from the control station location.
  • Maintain a minimum distance of 500 feet below and 2000 feet horizontally from any clouds.
  • Do not fly the unmanned aircraft system over crowds of individuals unless a waiver has been obtained before the flight.
  • Do not operate the unmanned aircraft system from a moving vehicle unless a waiver has been obtained before the flight.
  • Do not operate the unmanned aircraft system in a careless or reckless manner.
  • Store the unmanned aircraft system in a secure, locked location when not in use.

# 8. Accident Reporting

  • All incidents involving damage to the drone, property of others, personal injury to employees or others should be reported to Bees360 management as soon as possible or no later than 24 hours.
  • Notify emergency personnel or law enforcement (call 911) in the event of an accident where injuries or property damage occurs.
  • Gather as much information as possible about the accident and document facts.
  • Gather witness statements as you are able, including name, address, and phone numbers. Take photos of damaged property and/or conditions contributing to the accident.

In the event of an accident, the remote pilot is required to report any of the following to the FAA within 10 days of the accident to DroneZone (opens new window):

  • Accidents involving serious injury or loss of consciousness.
  • Damage to property, other than the unmanned aircraft, if the cost is greater than $500 to repair or replace the property, whichever is lower.

Note: Management or Human Resources will be responsible for fact gathering, completing, and submitting the accident report within 24 hours of being notified.

We are continuously updating our guidelines, policies, procedures, and BeesPilot™ app. We sincerely look forward to working with you and to building new standards for this industry!

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