Drone Inspection: How Drones Operations in Confined Spaces?

Posted on 11th Dec 2023

Confined Space| Unmanned Aerial Vehicle | Drone| Safety

Did you know that drones have come a long way from soaring in open skies to mastering confined spaces? Before that, have you ever understood about confined spaces? A confined space is a place that is closed in or partly closed in. It's not made for people to stay in for a long time, and it's hard to get in and out. These spaces are small and set up in a way that makes it tough for people to go in, work, and come out safely. Confined spaces can be risky because they have limited ways to get in and out, not enough air, and there might be dangerous stuff inside, like chemicals.


Thus,  The purpose of using drones for confined space inspection is to increase safety.  According to the Workplace Safety and Health Council, 10 percent of workplace fatalities were due to work -related accidents in confined spaces.Numerous individuals face fatal or severe injuries annually while working in confined spaces in Singapore. In this article,we will explore how operations in confined spaces.


Compact Design

Drones designed for confined spaces are typically compact, lightweight, and equipped with advanced maneuvering capabilities. Their size allows them to access areas that are challenging for humans or traditional equipment to reach. With features like obstacle avoidance systems and precision control, these drones can navigate through intricate spaces with ease. Using the drone inspections will definitely minimize the hazard risk for the worker. 

Industrial Inspection and Maintenance:

One of the primary applications of drones in confined spaces is industrial inspection and maintenance. In sectors such as construction, marine,  oil and gas, and manufacturing, drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors can inspect pipelines, tanks, and structures without the need for human entry. This not only reduces operational risks but also enhances the efficiency of inspections.

Confined Space Inspection in Shipyard

Search and Rescue Operations:

Drones play a vital role in search and rescue missions within confined spaces, such as collapsed buildings or underground structures. Equipped with thermal imaging cameras and sensors, drones can quickly assess the situation, locate survivors, and provide critical information to rescue teams. Their flexibility is particularly advantageous in navigating through rubble and tight spaces during emergency scenarios.

Environmental Monitoring:

Confined spaces, such as vessel tank, storage tank inspection and ship inspection. Drones equipped with gas sensors and environmental monitoring devices can assess air quality, detect leaks, and collect data in spaces where human access may be hazardous. This capability is crucial for maintaining a safe and sustainable working environment.

Confined Space Inspection in Vessel Tank  

Infrastructure Inspections:

Drones are increasingly used for inspecting infrastructure in urban areas, including bridges, tunnels, and rooftops. Their ability to access tight spaces ensures a thorough examination of structural integrity, identifying potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach not only enhances safety but also minimizes downtime for critical infrastructure.


Confined Space Inspection in Vessel Tank

Challenges and Solutions:

Operating drones in confined spaces comes with its set of challenges, including limited communication range and the need for precise navigation. However, ongoing advancements in technology, such as improved communication protocols and enhanced sensors, continue to address these challenges, making drones even more versatile in confined environments.


Vessel Tank Inspection

Conclusion:

The integration of drones into confined spaces has opened up a new frontier for innovation and efficiency across various industries. Whether inspecting critical infrastructure, aiding in search and rescue missions, or monitoring environmental conditions, drones have proven to be indispensable tools. As technology continues to advance, the future holds even greater possibilities for these agile aerial devices, further transforming how we navigate and operate within confined spaces.

If you are looking for confined space inspection services for your project, feel free to contact us for further details 

Contact: +65 6718 2231

Email: mirs@mirs-innov.com

Website: https://www.mirs-innov.com/confined-space