ISO Releases First Global Standard for Drones

The International Standards Organisation (ISO) has released a draft version of what will be the first set of global standard for drone operations, and has invited professionals, academics and businesses to submit comments by 21 January 2019.

The standards address operational requirements for aerial drones, with protocols for both safety and security – including the promotion of no-fly zones, the need for flight log protocols, maintenance, training and flight documentation.

They also address public concerns over privacy and data protection by requiring operators to have appropriate systems to handle data alongside communications and control planning when flying.

Using drones safety and effectively in a typically complex regulatory framework has been a constant challenge for many businesses. The ISO believes the drone operation standard will improve public perceptions surrounding the technology, ultimately triggering a boom market and spurring market growth across the globe.

Draft International Standards for Drone Operations convenor, Robert Garbett, said the Standard was a result of “three years of hard work”, with significant international cooperation between standard’s bodies across the world. Garbett added that final adoption of these Standards is expected worldwide in 2019, with further standards to be developed that will cover drone use in other environments such as ground, water, and space.

“These standards will undoubtedly lead to a new confidence in safety, security and compliance within this dynamic industry, resulting in a massive expansion in the availability and use of drone technology in the years to come.”

“My conversations with drone buyers, manufacturers, users and the wider public indicate that these standards are warmly and enthusiastically welcomed by all. I would encourage all those with an interest in drones to engage with the consultation process so that no stone has been left unturned in our quest for the creation and adoption of best-practice drone standards.”

For the safety industry, commercial drones and drone data continues to make a significant impact on efficiency and effectiveness across a wide range of industries (see related article).