Drones, those small unmanned flying devices, have found a plethora of applications across various industries, including construction. With an estimated usage exceeding a million units within the construction sector alone, drones have proven to be safer alternatives to traditional methods like swing stages, boom lifts, or rope-access, particularly in conducting façade inspections.
Despite their numerous advantages, the widespread adoption of drones in façade inspection has faced some hurdles, mainly due to certain restrictive local regulations. However, recent developments, such as the enactment of Local Law 102 of 2020 (Local Law 102) in New York City, are set to change the landscape of façade inspections.
New York City boasts a rich architectural heritage, with many historic buildings requiring regular inspection and upkeep. Tragically, in late 2019, the city witnessed a fatal incident involving Erica Tishman, an architect who lost her life due to falling façade debris from a century-old high-rise in Manhattan. Prompted by this tragedy, the New York City Council introduced Local Law 102 in 2020, mandating the use of drones alongside conventional hands-on inspections conducted by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).
The FSP established by Local Law 102 necessitates periodic inspections of façades for buildings exceeding six stories. This program aims to leverage drones, also known as unmanned air vehicles (UAVs), to enhance the efficiency and safety of façade inspections.
Drones offer a versatile platform for capturing extensive visual data, including videos and thermal images, essential for identifying defects and damages on building façades. However, analyzing this data poses its own set of challenges, requiring skilled professionals, known as Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWIs), to interpret and address potential hazards promptly.
In the context of NYC, drones provide QEWIs with enhanced visual access to inaccessible areas such as window sills, balconies, and mechanical installations. This capability significantly streamlines the inspection process, saving time and enabling thorough defect assessment.
Several factors must be taken into account when conducting façade inspections using drones:
In many jurisdictions, drones are integrated with complementary methods and technologies to enhance the effectiveness of façade inspections, ensuring comprehensive assessment and maintenance of building exteriors.