On May 18, 2018, OSHA issued an Enforcement Memorandum for Regional Administrators, “OSHA’s use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Inspections,” to provide initial guidance on the use of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS) during compliance inspections and for other purposes. In light of recent improvements by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to help SUAS pilots fly safely in the national airspace, an upsurge in the commercial use of SUAS, and technical advances to the SUAS themselves, the agency has determined that additional guidance is warranted. This Instruction provides information and enforcement guidance to support OSHA’s use of SUAS for any approved purpose as outlined in this directive, including in the following circumstances to use SUAS:
- To collect evidence during compliance inspections in certain workplace settings, including in areas that are inaccessible or pose a safety risk to inspection personnel.
- For technical assistance in emergency situations.
- During compliance assistance activities.
- For training activities.
Significant Changes from the 2018 OSHA Enforcement Memo on Drones
This Instruction includes the following significant changes from OSHA Memorandum for Regional Administrators, OSHA’s use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Inspections, May 18, 2018:
- Updates references to include new documents and the current versions of documents previously listed.
- Updates guidance regarding FAA requirements and procedures, including 14 CFR part 107 SUAS operations, waivers, and FAA’s significantly improved/streamlined online waiver application process.
- Updates and adds electronic links to enhance web–based usability, including FAA’s “DroneZone” webpage, SUAS webinar series, and the B4UFLY Mobile App.
- Updates recommended best practices for SUAS operations.
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