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UnmannedAircraftSystems(UAS)OperationsManagementStandards

andGuidelines

Issue1

January2017

UnmannedAircraftSystems(UAS)OperationsManagementStandardsandGuidelines Page2

Acknowledgments

Inpreparingandpublishingthisdocument,Oil&GasUKgratefullyacknowledgesthecontributionofmembersoftheworkgroup,namely:

• DavidMacLean–BP

• ColinCheesewright-ConocoPhillips

• MalcolmConnolly-Cyberhawk

• SimonJones–GreenDeckOperations

• GaryDavidson-Shell

• NickRogers-Sky-Futures

• RebeccaBorresen–Oil&GasUK

• JohnBurt–Oil&GasUK

Oil&GasUKwouldliketothankSkyFuturesandIRISGroupforprovidingthecoverimages,aswellasASTGmembersandIOGPAviationSafetyCommitteespecialistsfortheirsupportandcontributionsinthedevelopmentofthisguidance.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in thispublication,neitherOil&GasUK,noranyofitsmemberswillassumeliabilityforanyusemadeofthispublicationorthemodelagreementtowhichitrelates.

All rights reserved. No part of this publicationmay be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, ortransmittedinanyformorbyanymeans,electronic,mechanical,photocopying,recordingorotherwise,withoutpriorwrittenpermissionofthepublishers.

Crown copyright material is reproduced with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’sStationeryOffice.

Copyright©2017TheUKOilandGasIndustryAssociationLimitedtradingasOil&GasUK

ISBN:1903004799PUBLISHEDBYOIL&GASUK

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UnmannedAircraftSystems(UAS)OperationsManagementStandardsandGuidelines

January2017

Page3

Contents

1 Introduction 11

2 General 122.1 PlanningandProcuringUASServices 12

2.1.1 ScopeofUASServices 122.1.2 DefiningTaskRequirementsandWorkScope 12

2.2 SafetyandQualityAssurance 132.2.1 HazardsIdentificationandRiskAssessment 132.2.2 SMS/SafetyCase/SafetyPlan 142.2.3 EmergencyResponsePlanningandProcedures152.2.4 AuditingandComplianceRequirements 15

2.3 InspectionServices–ElementsandStandards 162.3.1 Quality Standard for UAS Operations Data

InterpretationandReporting 162.3.2 FPAL 162.3.3 UASOperationsDocumentsStandard 172.3.4 UASServicesInsuranceRequirements 17

3 ManagingUASOperationsonOilandGasAssets 183.1 InstallationManagementControlofUASOperations 18

3.1.1 ManagementRolesandResponsibilities 183.1.2 Control of UAS Operations in the Offshore

InstallationEnvironment 183.1.3 UAS Team Offshore Safety Training

Requirements 183.1.4 PermittoWorkRequirements 19

3.2 UAS Service Provider Control of UAS OperationsOffshore 193.2.1 UAS Manager and Flight Team Roles and

Responsibilities 193.2.2 UASOperatorOperationsManual 193.2.3 Communications 203.2.4 Familiarisation with Installation Topography and

HazardousAreas 203.2.5 De-confliction with Offshore Helicopter

Operations 20


3.2.6 De-conflictionwithMarineActivities 203.2.7 UASFlightsPlanning,ConductandSurveillance203.2.8 UASLaunchandRecovery 213.2.9 UASFlightTimeandIncidentReporting 21

3.3 Offshore Transportation and Accommodation of UASPersonnelandEquipment 223.3.1 TransportingandAccommodatingUASPersonnel

Offshore 223.3.2 Manifesting and Transporting UAS Equipment

OffshorebyAirorSea 223.3.3 DangerousGoodsCompliance(e.g.Batteries) 223.3.4 Storage and Maintenance of UAS Equipment

Offshore 22

4 OperatingUnmannedAircraftSystems 234.1 UASOperatingRequirementsandAuthorisations 23

4.1.1 CAAPermissionforCommercialOperations 234.1.2 UAS‘PermissiontoOperate’Standard 234.1.3 SafetyManagementSystem 244.1.4 QualityManagement 24

4.2 UASOperatorTrainingandCompetence 244.2.1 Introduction 244.2.2 ManagingUASTeamTrainingandCompetence254.2.3 RemotePilotSelectionStandard 254.2.4 RemotePilotInitialTrainingandExperience 264.2.5 OffshoreRemotePilotandSupportCrewTraining,

Recurrent Training, Competence and CurrencyRequirements 27

4.2.6 Minimum Crew Composition and CompetenceRequirements 28

4.2.7 UASObserver 284.2.8 CAANationalQualifiedEntity 29

4.3 UASEquipment 294.3.1 UASRotorcraftAirframe/LoadPlatform 294.3.2 UASPowerPlantsandRotorSystems 304.3.3 UASBatteryRequirements 304.3.4 UAS Electronic and Data Capture Systems

Requirements 314.4 UASLimitations 32

4.4.1 VisualConditionsforOperations 324.4.2 WeatherConsiderations 32

4.5 RecordKeeping 33Appendices 34A SampleContentforUASOperationalSafetyPlan/SafetyCase 34B SampleContentforUASOperatorOperationsManual 35C IOGPUnmannedAerialSystemOperationalData-Form 41D UASPersonnelTraining,ExperienceandCompetenceMatrix 42


RevisionHistory

Issue Date Remarks

Issue1 January2017 None


Glossary

Glossary Definitions

Airworthiness AconditioninwhichtheUAS(includingtheaircraft,airframe,engine,propeller,accessories,appliances,andcontrolstationconformstoitstypecertificate,ifapplicable,andisinconditionforsafeoperation.

AirworthinessCertification

Arepeatableprocessthatresultsinadocumenteddecisionthatanaircraftsystemhasbeenjudgedtobeairworthy.Itisintendedtoverifythattheaircraftsystemcanbesafelymaintainedandsafelyoperatedbyfleetpilotswithinitsdescribedanddocumentedoperationalenvelope.

ANO AirNavigationOrder

BOSIET BasicOffshoreSafetyInductionandEmergencyTraining

CAA CivilAviationAuthority

CAP CivilAviationPublication

CongestedArea Withinaviationlegislation(i.e.AirNavigationOrder2016)‘congestedarea’hasaspecificmeaningwhichis“inrelationtoacity,townorsettlement,meansanyareawhichissubstantiallyusedforresidential,industrial,commercialorrecreationalpurposes”.InthecontextofonandoffshoreUASoperations,workinginacongestedareashouldbedeterminedonacase-by-casebasis.

Deconfliction Reducingtheriskofcollisionbetweenaircraftbycoordinatingtheirmovements

ExperimentalCertificate

AtypeofSpecialAirworthinessCertificateissuedforthepurposesofresearchanddevelopment,crewtraining,exhibition,andmarketsurvey.CommercialUASoperationscannotbeconductedwithanexperimentalcertificate.

EU EuropeanUnion

FlightTermination Theintentionalanddeliberateprocessofperformingcontrolledflightintoterrain.Flightterminationshouldbeexecutedintheeventthatallothercontingencieshavebeenexhausted,andfurtherflightoftheaircraftcannotbesafelyachieved,orotherpotentialhazardsexistthatrequireimmediatediscontinuationofflight.

Flyaway Aninterruptionorlossofthecontrollink,orwhenthepilotisunabletoeffectcontroloftheaircraftand,asaresult,theUASisnotoperatinginapredicableorplannedmanner.

GPS GlobalPositioningSystem

HAZID/HAZOP HazardIdentification/HazardandOperability

HLO HelicopterLandingOfficer

HSE HealthandSafetyExecutive

IOGP InternationalAssociationofOilandGasProducers

ISO InternationalStandardsOrganisation



LostLink Thelossofcommand-and-controllinkcontactwiththeremotelypilotedaircraftsuchthattheremotepilotcannolongermanagetheaircraft’sflight.

MODU MobileOffshoreDrillingUnit

NQE NationalQualifiedEntity

Observer AtrainedpersonwhoassistsaUASpilotinthedutiesassociatedwithcollisionavoidanceandnavigationalawarenessthroughelectronicorvisualmeans.Collisionavoidanceincludes,butisnotlimitedto,avoidanceofothertraffic,clouds,obstructions,terrainandnavigationalawareness.Avisualobserver(VO)isatrainedpersonwhoassiststheUASpilotbyvisualmeansinthedutiesassociatedwithcollisionavoidance.

OIM OffshoreInstallationManager

OPITO OffshorePetroleumIndustryTrainingOrganisation

OSC OperationalSafetyCase

PilotDutyPeriod Theperiodbeginningwhenaflightcrewmemberisrequiredtoreportfordutywiththeintentionofconductingaflightandendingwhentheaircraftisparkedafterthelastflight.Itincludestheperiodoftimebeforeaflightorbetweenflightsthatapilotisworkingwithoutaninterveningrestperiod.

PIC PilotinCommand

Thepersonwhohasfinalauthorityandresponsibilityfortheoperationandsafetyofflight,hasbeendesignatedasPICbeforeorduringtheflight,andholdstheappropriatecategory,class,andtyperating,ifapplicable,fortheconductoftheflight.TheresponsibilityandauthorityofthePICapplytotheUASPIC.TheUASPICpositionmayrotatedutiesasnecessarywithequallyqualifiedremotepilots.TheindividualdesignatedasPICmaychangeduringflight.NOTE:ThePICcanonlybethePICforoneaircraftatatime.ThePICshouldmeetUASguidancerequirementsfortraining,pilotlicensingandmedicalrequirements.

PTW PermittoWork

RAIM ReceiverAutonomousIntegrityMonitoring

ForaviationGPSapplications.InorderforaGPSreceivertoperformaRAIMorfaultdetectionfunction,aminimumof5satelliteswithsatisfactorygeometrymustbevisibletotheGPSreceiver.

SMS SafetyManagementSystem

ScheduledMaintenance(Routine)

Theperformanceofmaintenancetasksatprescribedintervals.

UA UnmannedAircraft

Adeviceusedorintendedtobeusedforflightintheairthathasnoon-boardpilot.



UAS UnmannedAircraftSystem

AUAanditsassociatedelementsrelatedtosafeoperations,whichmayincludecontrolstations(ground-,ship-,orair-based),controllinks,supportequipment,payloads,flightterminationsystems,andlaunch/recoveryequipment.

UKCS UnitedKingdomContinentalShelf

UnscheduledMaintenance(Non-routine)

Theperformanceofmaintenancetaskswhenmechanicalirregularitiesoccur.

VLOS VisualLineofSight

Unaided(correctivelensesand/orsunglassesexempted)visualcontactbetweenaPICoraVOandaUAsufficienttomaintainsafeoperationalcontroloftheaircraft,knowitslocation,andbeabletoscantheairspaceinwhichitisoperatingtoseeandavoidotherairtrafficorobjectsaloftorontheground.

VMC VisualMeteorologicalConditions

VO VisualObserver


References

• AirNavigationOrder(ANO)2016

• CAAInformationNoticeIN-2016/073–SmallUnmannedAircraft–ANO2016

• CAACAP722-UnmannedAircraftSystemOperationsinUKAirspace–Guidance,SixthEdition31stMarch2015

• CAASRG1320–ApplicationforOperationofaSmallUnmannedAircraft

• IOGPGuidelines-UnmannedAerialSystemsGuidelinesFebruary2015


1 Introduction

The use of unmanned aerial systems is an emerging technology for assisting with survey,inspectionandmaintenanceofUKContinental Shelf (UKCS)offshoreoil&gas installations.Thesestandardsandguidelineshavebeendevelopedinordertoachieveconsistencywiththehigh safety and operating standards adopted on the UKCS for offshore oil and gas fieldproductionandhelicopterflightoperations.

Thestandardsandguidelinessetoutinthisdocumenthaveevolvedfromlessonslearnedoverrecentyearsandareintendedtoreflectgoodindustrypractice;whichshouldbeconsistentlyappliedbydutyholdersacrosstheUKCS.

ThisdocumenthasbeenproducedbyOil&GasUKinconjunctionwithkeyindustryindividualsandorganisations(e.g.IOGPAviationSafetyCommittee)toassistthosewithresponsibilitiesforprocuring, managing and operating unmanned aerial systems on and around oil and gasinstallations;toreducetherisksinvolvedtoaslowasreasonablypracticable.

Sincethetermsunmannedaerialvehicle,unmannedaircraftsystem(UAS)andremotelypilotedaircraftareoftenusedsynonymously,thisdocumentwillusethetermUAStostandardizeanddescribeallunmannedaircraftsystems(fixedorrotarywing).

The intentof theseguidelines is toencouragedutyholderswhenplanningtoutiliseUAStoconsidertheentireoperatingandsafetysystem,notjusttheairvehicle.

Theaimofthisdocumentistoprovideinformationaboutbestpracticeoperations,proceduresandthenecessarycertificationrequiredtobeanUASoperatorcompliantwithestablishedUASregulationsandtoconductcommercialUASoperationsinasafeandprofessionalcapacityintheoilandgasonshoreandoffshoreenvironment.


2 General

2.1 PlanningandProcuringUASServices

This document provides guidance to project sponsors and accountablemanagers ofUK oil and gasindustrydutyholders and commercial unmannedaircraftoperators; planning to contractUAS flightservices forcommercialoperationsonoffshore installations,mobileoffshoredrillingunits (MODUs),vesselsandassociatedonshorepipelinesandplant.

UASapplicationscoverawiderangeofactivitiessuchassurvey, inspection,securityandemergencyresponse,etc.

2.1.1 ScopeofUASServices

CurrentlythisdocumentdealsprincipallywithcommercialUASoperationsconductedontheUKCSwiththeUAShavingamaximummassof20kgorlessanddeemedasacceptablebytheUKCivilAviationAuthority(CAA)tooperateincongestedareas.

LookingtothefuturewhenusingUAStosupportUKCSoilandgasindustryinfrastructuresurveyandinspection,itisnotintendedtoexcludetheuseofUASabove20kgorfixedwingUAS.

ItisreadilyacknowledgedbyOil&GasUKthatasUAStechnologyadvances,moresophisticatedaerialplatformsandengineeringtaskapplicationswillbeidentified,thusopeningupthefullpotentialforUASsupporttotheglobaloilandgasindustry.

BroadlyspeakingtherearecurrentlytwomaintypesofUASoperationthatarecarriedoutinanoffshoreenvironment:

a. AerialPhotography/Survey/Security

Theseoperations typically involve flying inanopen spaceaway fromstructures.Anexampleof thiswouldbetakingoverviewphotographsofanoffshoreplatform.

b. InspectionOperations

TheseoperationsaccountforthemajorityofUASactivitiesoffshore.Thisusuallyinvolvesflyingclosetoandevenunderstructuresinordertogetdetailedimageryordataoftheasset.

OnandoffshoreoilandgasassetsinfrastructuresthatcancurrentlybeaccessedusingUASinclude,butare not limited to: flare towers and other elevated structures, flare booms, live flare tips, turbinegenerator exhausts, sulphur chimneys, cranes, drilling derricks, helideck support structures, underdeck/splashzone,jacketstructure/legs,risers/caissons,vesselhullsandtankinternals.

2.1.2 DefiningTaskRequirementsandWorkScope

FromtheoutsetwhenspecifyingandprocuringUASservicesforworkonoilandgasinstallationsitisimperativethatonandoffshoremanagementandUASoperatingprocessesarefullyunderstood.


Section2addressestherequirementsthatshouldbeconsideredbyadutyholderforsafelymanagingUAS operations in an offshore environment and Section 3 addresses the requirements for safelyoperatingacommercialUASinahostileonandoffshoreenvironment.

InorderforadutyholdertoproperlyspecifyandprocureUASservicesitisessentialtoclearlysetoutwhat the UAS inspection/survey objectives are and, on completion of the tasking, the deliverablesrequired. This information should be used to inform the development of a detailed scope of workagainstwhich,performanceoftheUASservicescanbemeasured.

2.2 SafetyandQualityAssurance

2.2.1 HazardsIdentificationandRiskAssessment

Ariskassessmentisanessentialpartofthedutyholder’splanningforUASoperationsonoraboutanoilandgasinstallation.

Prior to permitting UAS operations on or about the duty holder’s oil and gas installation hazardidentificationshouldbeundertakentodeterminethepotentialhazardsintroducedbyUASoperationsthatmightaffectthesafetyoftheoilandgasinstallation,itspersonnelandroutineoperationalactivities.Hazardidentificationwithinthesafetymanagementsystem(SMS)shouldbeanon-goingprocess.

TheUASoperatorshouldhaveanestablishedhazardregisterandhazardidentificationprocessforallaspects of the UAS operations. A hazard analysis should be completed prior to beginning flightoperationsinanewlocation,orwhenanewtypeofUASisemployedatanexistinglocation.Allrisksshouldbeevaluatedaccordingtoariskassessmentmatrix,andtheresultsofanyriskcontrolsshouldbeevaluatedthroughagapanalysisprocess.

To ensure consistency of risk assessments, a standard template (company standard) should becompletedbythedutyholderforeachspecificUASoperation.Thereshouldbearegularcycleof‘actionandreview’foranyoperationalriskassessment,inadditiontothetemplateitself.

Hazardsidentificationandriskassessments(e.g.usingmethodologiessuchasbowties)shouldbejointlycompletedbythedutyholderandUASoperatingcompany(serviceprovider)priortoworkcommencingonanoilandgasinstallation.Theworkshouldbeaccomplishedwithinvolvement/participationofallassignedUASteammembers(e.g.leadremotepilotandthemanagerinchargeoffieldoperations)andUASoperationsmanagementoversighttoapproveandsignofftheUASriskassessment.

DuringtheriskassessmentandHAZID/HAZOPthemainrisksofthespecifictask(takingintoaccounttheongoing activity on the installation) should be identified and either eliminated or controlled, asappropriate.Additionally,hazardsassociatedwiththedesignandoperationoftheUASairframeandpayloadshouldalsobeidentifiedandeithereliminatedorcontrolled,asappropriate.ForexampleUASmotors,electricalandelectronicequipmentarenotintrinsicallysafe.

Onsiteswithhighaircraftactivity(forexamplecentralhubplatformsservicingmultiplesatelliteNUIs)orduringshutdown/majorprojectswheretherecouldbemultipleworkpartiesincloseproximity,anadditionalvisualobserveror“standbyman”assigned fromthe installationstaff,mayberequired toassisttheUASteamtosafelymanagetheworksite.


Normally,thebasicminimumUAScrewcompositionwillbetwopersonsandtheneedforanadditionalvisualobservershouldbeidentifiedattheriskassessmentstagealthoughmoreoften,athirdpersonwillnotberequired.

Alltaskriskassessmentdocumentsshouldbereviewedandapprovedbytheoffshoredutyholdertaskmanagementrepresentative(s),(e.g.offshoreinstallationmanager(OIM)and/ordelegate).

2.2.2 SMS/SafetyCase/SafetyPlan

Theoilandgascompanydutyholder’sSMSandsafetycasearekeyelementsofongoingoffshoreoilandgasoperations.

The UAS operator should have in place a SMS that interfaces with the duty holder’s SMS and isconsistentwithUKCSoffshoreoilandgasbestpracticeguidelines.

Asafetyplan isan importantoperationaldocumentspecifictooilandgasoperations, includingUASoperations.ThepurposeofthesafetyplanisforthedutyholdertounderstandandapprovethesafetyandcommunicationsproceduresthataUASoperationsteamwillfollowduringthetasking.Thesafetyplanshould,asaminimum,containthefollowingdetails:

1. UASspecificationsandlimits

a. UAStechnicalspecifications

b. UASoperatinglimitationsandrestrictions

2. Operationdescriptionincludingthescopeofwork(s)tobeexecuted

a. Requiredequipmentandpersonnel

b. Permittoworksystem

c. Securingtheairspace

d. Take-offandlandingsites

e. Airborneproceduresincludingdetailsofflightpaths

f. Communicationsprotocol

3. Operationsrestrictedaccess

a. Restricted access to areas with hazardous atmospheres identified and/or appropriatemitigationmeasuresinplace.

b. Restricted access to areas of known or potential magnetic or radio wave interferenceidentifiedand/orappropriatemitigationmeasuresinplace

c. Overflyandsecurity/privacyrestrictionsidentifiedandmitigatedforoperationsadjacentto3rdpartyassetsandpeopleonandoffshore

4. Emergencyresponseplan

a. Fireandgasalarms/releaseresponseprocedures

b. Blowdown/increasedflarerateresponseprocedures

c. EmergencyproceduresforUASoperationalupsetconditions

5. PreventiveMatters

a. Prop/rotorfailure


b. Lossofpayload/droppedobjectrisk

c. Batteryfailure

d. Lossofcommunicationslink

e. Resistancetomagneticdisturbancesandanomaly

f. Logfilerecording

2.2.3 EmergencyResponsePlanningandProcedures

AformalemergencyresponseplanshouldbeinplaceforallUASflightoperations.Anincidentresponsechecklist, approved as part of the flight operationsmanual, should be followed in the event of anincidentoraccident.

Allaccidents,incidents,nearmissesandfailuresofsafetycontrolsaretobeimmediatelyreportedbytheUASoperatortothedutyholderandregulatoryauthorities(e.g.UKCAAandtheHealth&SafetyExecutive(HSE),asappropriate)andbefullyinvestigatedbythedutyholderandUASoperatorinorderthatcausesareunderstoodandlessonsidentified,promulgatedandimplemented.

TimelyandaccurateoccurrencereportingisrequiredacrossallUASoperationsto:notifyallrelevantagenciesofactualandpotentialhazards, initiatefurther investigationwhereappropriateandenabledatacaptureandanalysis.Robustandcoherentreportingprocesseswillenableactiontobeinitiatedtopreventrecurrencewhereverpracticable.SeeAppendixC.

AllUASoperationsteamsworkingonoilandgasinstallationsshouldbeequippedwithanyspecializedequipment thatmay be required in the event of amishap. For example, containment of damagedbatteries and specific handling instructions and equipment may be required for some compositematerialswhentheintegrityofthecompositeiscompromised.

2.2.4 AuditingandComplianceRequirements

Dutyholdersshouldundertakeadetailedoperational/flightsafety/commercialauditofaprospectiveUASOperatorpriortocontractingthecompanytoundertakeoffshoreUASoperations.

Auditsoftheaviationoperational/flightsafety/commercialelementscanbeundertakenattheinvitationto tenderstageorperiodically (e.g.annually), inamannersimilar to thatused forauditingoffshorehelicopteroperators.

FromanaviationperspectiveaUASisanairborneplatformthatisusedonlyasatoolfordatacollection.Therefore,aviationsafetyauditsshouldbecarriedoutbyqualifiedandcompetentin-houseor3rdpartyauditorsusingasabasis,theprocessessetoutinOil&GasUKManagementofAviationStandardsandGuidelines,Issue61.

Asaminimum,compliancewiththefollowingwillberequired:

• ISO9001-ManagementSystemStandard

• CAP722–GuidanceonUASOperationsinUKAirspace

1Note:currentversionbeingupdatedtoIssue7in2017


• CAP393-TheAirNavigationOrder(ANO)

• CAAInformationNoticeNumber:IN–2016/073

Auditingofdatacapture,interpretationandreportingrequirementsareoutwiththeseguidelinesandshouldbeaddressedbydutyholdersaspartofcompanymaintenanceandinspectionstandardsandguidelines.

2.3 InspectionServices–ElementsandStandards

TosafelyandprofessionallyoperateUASsystemstoinspectoilandgasinfrastructure,thestandardslistedbelowshouldbeconsideredminimumrequirementsinordertoprovideaUASinspectionservicebothonandoffshoreforoilandgasindustrycustomers.

2.3.1 QualityStandardforUASOperationsDataInterpretationandReporting

Specific elements relating to on-site engineering/inspection operations, data collection andinterpretation and reporting should be covered by an inspection quality standard separate to thisdocument. For instance, the duty holders’ in-house engineering and inspection standards. See alsoSection3.3.4fordatacaptureandmanagement.

TheminimumqualitymanagementsystemrequirementforaUASinspectionserviceisISO9001:2008oranoilandgasindustryrecognisedequivalent;withtheaimofensuringthefollowing:

• Respondingquicklyandclearlytorequestsforinformationandprovidingaprofessionalservicetoallclients.

• Thesupplyofqualityservicesthatmeettheclient’sperformanceexpectations.

• MaintainingadocumentedsafetyqualitysystembasedontherequirementsofISO9001:2008

• RegularlyreviewingthequalitysystemtoensurethatitcontinuestomeetthebusinessneedsoftheUASinspectioncompanyinadditiontoqualityandsafetyexpectationsofcustomers.

• Ensuring that company employees and sub-contractors are provided with the workingenvironment,information,resourcesandtrainingnecessarytodelivergoodqualityservices.

• Ensuring that all employees are provided with the opportunity to participate in qualityimprovement.

• Endeavouringtocontinuallyimprovebothworkperformanceandqualitybysettingmeasurableobjectivesandcommunicatingtheresultsthroughouttheorganisation.

• Ensuring that thequalitypolicy isunderstood, implementedandmaintainedthroughout thebusinessandthatitisregularlyrevisedforcontinuingsuitabilitywiththeaimofimprovingsafetyandqualityoutput.

2.3.2 FPAL

On theUKCSAchilles FPAL is a recognisedbody for reporting andmonitoring thequality of serviceproviders.AchillesFPALmembershipisanintegralpartoftheglobaloilandgasindustry-wideinitiativetheSupplyChainCodeofPracticethatisendorsedbytheUKoilandgassupplychaintomeasurebestpracticeduringbuyerprocurementprocesses.


2.3.3 UASOperationsDocumentsStandard

Companyoperationsmanualshouldinclude:

• Generalprocedures

• UASequipmentandsystemsinformation

• Safetymanagementsystem

• Authorisedoperations

• RemotePilottraining

• UASsystemservicingandmaintenance

DetailedrequirementsforaUASoperationsmanualareexpandedinAppendixB.

2.3.4 UASServicesInsuranceRequirements

Tooperateonor in thevicinityofoil andgas installationsa commercialUASoperator shouldbe inpossession of the following minimum insurance cover, valid for the period of the contract andunderwrittenbyaninsuranceproviderfullycertifiedtodobusinessininternationalfinancialmarkets.Additionally,thedutyholderandprimeinspectioncontractorshouldbenamedasadditionalinsuredasspecifiedforcontracts.

• £10m3rdpartypublicliability

• £1mprofessionalindemnity

• £5memployersliability

• HullinsurancefortheUASsystem

• Travelinsurance–global


3 ManagingUASOperationsonOilandGasAssets

3.1 InstallationManagementControlofUASOperations

3.1.1 ManagementRolesandResponsibilities

TheOIMormasterisresponsibleforallactivitiesundertakenonanoilandgasinstallation/MODU/vessel.Thisincludesensuringthatallconflicting/simultaneousUASoperationshavebeenproperlyriskassessed,robustproceduresareinplaceandtrainedandcompetentpersonnelareassignedtomanagetheUASactivities.

Daytodaydelegatedresponsibilitieswillnormallyinclude:

The installation maintenance manager (or an alternate nominated responsible person) providing asinglepointofcontacttomanageallUASteamactivitiesonandaroundtheinstallation.

Thehelicopterlandingofficer(HLO)(oranalternatenominatedresponsibleperson)willnormallyactastheUASteamcommunicationlinkand,ifrequired,additionalvisualobserver(Section1.2.1)forflightoperationsonandaroundtheinstallation.

The radio operator is responsible for ensuring deconfliction between UAS operations and otherairborne/seaborneactivities.

3.1.2 ControlofUASOperationsintheOffshoreInstallationEnvironment

CommunicationsbetweentheUASworkpartyandinstallation/assetsupervisorypersonnelshouldbeestablishedaspartofthepre-taskrequirementsandshouldbeadheredtoatalltimesthroughouttheUASoperations.

Theinstallation/vessel/MODUwillappointanominatedpersonasasinglepointofcontacttomanagethepermittowork(PTW)systemonbehalfoftheUASteam(intheeventtheUASteamhavenotdoneacompanyspecificPTWcourse).

The HLO (or an alternate nominated responsible person) will normally act as the UAS teamcommunicationlinktotheinstallationcontrolroom,heli-adminand/orradioroomtoprovideweatherupdates,helicopterinboundtimings,updatingonotherworkthatmayaffecttheUASoperations(e.g.overthesidework,etc.).SeealsoSection2.2.3.

TheradiooperatorisresponsibleforensuringothernearbyoffshoreunitshavebeeninformedoftheUASoperations(e.g.thesafetyvessel)advisingtheareasofoperationetc.onandaroundtheinstallation.

TheUASoperatingteamisresponsibleforensuringthatoperationsceasewiththeUAS‘on-deck’andhelideckclearedatleast30minutespriortoanyscheduledhelicopterarrival.

3.1.3 UASTeamOffshoreSafetyTrainingRequirements

Prior to proceeding offshore all members of the UAS operations team should undergotraining/screeningandbeinpossessionofvalidanduptodatecertificatesforthefollowing:


• BOSIET

• HUETincludingCATA,CA-EBS

• Offshoremedical

Onceonboard theoffshore installation theUASoperations teamshould receivea full anddetailedplatformsafetybriefing.Inaddition,theyshouldattendandparticipateinafullstaffbriefingcoveringtheintendedUASoperations.

3.1.4 PermittoWorkRequirements

PTW requirements for undertaking UAS operations on an offshore oil and gas installation will beconducted using the duty holder ‘in place’ permit to work procedures for the asset. These PTWprocedureswillnormallybeadministeredundertheclosescrutinyoftheOIMoradesignatedalternate.

Priortoundertakingon-boardUASoperations,atleastonememberoftheUASoperationsteamshouldhaveattendedaformalpermittoworktrainingcourse(e.g.OPITO). Inaddition,theUASoperationsteamshouldnominateacompetentpersontoactasthePTWfocalpointforthetaskandberesponsibleforensuringthatPTWcomplianceismaintainedthroughouttheon-boardUASoperations.

3.2 UASServiceProviderControlofUASOperationsOffshore

3.2.1 UASManagerandFlightTeamRolesandResponsibilities

AlloftheUASactivitiesshouldbeoverseenremotelybyanoperationsmanagerorprojectmanagerwhosupportstheUASteamwithdutyholderliaison,assignmentpreparation,operationsandassignmentpostoperationsduties.

NormalUASTeamcompositionattheworksiteshouldbecomprisedofthefollowing:

• RemotePilot(nominatedaspilotincommand(PIC))/remotepilot(actingascameraoperator)

• RemotePilot(nominatedasPIC)/inspectionengineer(actingascameraoperator)

3.2.2 UASOperatorOperationsManual

A UAS operator should have a comprehensive operations manual that complies with CAP 722requirementsandisroutinelykeptuptodateandapprovedbytheUAScompanyaccountablemanager.Whenapplicable,thedocumentshouldalsobeapprovedbytheregulatoryauthority(e.g.UKCAA)and,subject to contractual requirements, by thedutyholder’s aviationadvisor.A sample contents list isprovidedinAppendixB.

AccesstotheUASoperator’soperationsmanualshouldbemadeavailabletothedutyholderpriortoandduringthecontractforUASservices.


3.2.3 Communications

DuringUASoperations,itisamandatoryrequirementtoestablishaformalmeansofcommunicationbetween theUASpilot andpayloadoperator and additionally, between theUASoperation and theinstallation(i.e.radioroomand/orcentralcontrolroom).

Note:CommunicationsbetweentheUASoperationandinstallationmaybecontrolledbytheobserver.

3.2.4 FamiliarisationwithInstallationTopographyandHazardousAreas

Prior to undertaking any UAS activities on or around the oil and gas installation/plant, the UASoperations team,assistedby thedutyholder, shouldobtain full anddetailed informationabout theinstallation/MODU/vessel togenerally familiarise themselveswith the layout, topography,processesand hazardous areas. Focus should be on ensuring that the planned UAS operations can be safelymanagedwithoutinterferenceorjeopardisingotheron-boardoperations.

3.2.5 De-conflictionwithOffshoreHelicopterOperations

ProceduresshouldbeinplacetoensurethatadequatehelicopterdeconflictionisfactoredintotheUASflightprogramme.Asaminimum,theUASshouldbeondeckandstowednolessthan30minutespriortoascheduledhelicopterarrival.

PriortoplannedUASoperationsonaninstallation,theHLO/heliadminshouldensurethedailyreport(e.g.viaHeliMet)includesaclearreferencetoadvisethatUASoperationsarebeingconductedontheinstallationandthetimestheseoperationsarescheduledtotakeplace.Itisimperativethathelicopteroperators,airtrafficcontrolandhelicopterflightcrewsaremadefullyawareofUASactivitiesduringtheflightplanningphaseforscheduledhelicopterflightstotheinstallation.

UpdatesonthestatusofUASoperationsshouldbecommunicatedtothehelicopterflightcrewsbytheHLO/radiooperatorduring theapproachphaseof the flight,with continualupdatesbeingprovidedthroughout.

3.2.6 De-conflictionwithMarineActivities

Proceduresshouldbeinplacetoensurethatadequatedeconflictionwithsurfacevesselsservicingtheinstallation,iseffectivelyachieved.

Standbyandothervesselsworkingincloseproximitytotheinstallation(e.g.supplyvessels,etc.)shouldbemadeawareofongoingUASoperationsbytheradiooperatorandalisteningwatchmaintained.

3.2.7 UASFlightsPlanning,ConductandSurveillance

TheUASflightteamshouldconductapre-operationsbriefingforeachday’sactivitiesthatdetails,asaminimum, the planned flight schedule, the designated take off/landing area(s), location weatherforecastincludingmotionconditionsforMODUs/vessels,intendedareasofUASactivityandpotentialinstallationoperatingeffectsontheUASprogramme(e.g.turbulenceandthermaleffectsfromturbineexhausts,areasofpotentialradio-frequency/magneticinterferenceandGPSdeniedareas).


TheUASflightteamshouldverifythattheyhavereviewedtheUASmaintenancerecordstoensurethatpre-flightandperiodicinspectionsareuptodateandtheUASisairworthyinallrespects.

3.2.8 UASLaunchandRecovery

Offshoreinstallationsare,bytheirnature,oftencongestedwithlimitedoptionsforlaunchandrecoveryoftheUAS.ThesizeoftheUASshouldbeconsideredwhenplanninganoperationoffshore;withsmallerUAS(<7Kg)beingmorefavourablefortightandcongestedareas.

IncertaincircumstanceswherethereisnotenoughspacetolaunchandrecovertheUASontheground(e.g. helideck), hand launch recovery can be considered; this however should only be done bycompetentpersonneltrainedinthetechniquewhenallotheravailableoptionshavebeendiscountedandasuitablehandlaunchandrecoveryprocedure is inplace.ThisshouldnotbeconsideredasafeoptionforlargerUASsystems(>7kg).

UASlaunchandrecoveryrequirements/conditions/limitationsshouldbedetailedintheUASoperator’soperationsmanualormaybeimposedbythedutyholders’safetyplan/permittoWorksystem.

3.2.9 UASFlightTimeandIncidentReporting

Wheresafetyhasbeenormayhavebeencompromised,itistheresponsibilityoftheUASoperatorinconjunctionwiththedutyholdertokeeparecordandformallyreportanysafetyincidentsoraccidents.

IntheUKthereisarequirementthatalloccurrencesrelatedtoUASoperationswhichareconsideredtohaveendangered,ormighthaveendangered,anyaircraft(includingthesubjectunmannedaircraft)oranypersonorproperty,mustbereportedtotheUKCAAviatheMORscheme.ThisappliesequallytoallUAScategories,regardlessoftheaircraft'smassorcertificationstate.ItalsoincludesUKregisteredUASoperatingoutsideUKairspace.

Foroccurrencereportingdetails,referenceshouldbemadetoCAP722andCAAInformationNoticeIN-2016/031whichintroducestheEuropeanAviationReportingPortal,aprovisionofRegulation(EU)No.376/2014ontheReporting,AnalysisandFollow-upofOccurrencesinCivilAviation.

Additionally,toassisttheoilandgasindustrytodevelopadatabaseofUASactivityandincidentreports,theIOGPUASoperationaldataformandprocedure(AppendixC)shouldbecompletedinadditiontoanyrequirementsforinternaldutyholderandUASoperatorreporting.

The UAS operator’s primary concern, in the interests of safety, should be to ensure full, free anduninhibitedreportingofallaccidentsandincidentsthataffectsafety.ItisthereforetheresponsibilityofeveryUASoperatororemployeeoftheUASoperatortoreportanycircumstancesaffectingsafetyandto co-operate fully throughout any investigation in the interests of on-going mutual improvedoperationalsafety.


3.3 OffshoreTransportationandAccommodationofUASPersonnelandEquipment

3.3.1 TransportingandAccommodatingUASPersonnelOffshore

Authorisation and arrangements for transporting to and accommodating members of the UASoperationsteamonanoffshoreinstallationistheresponsibilityofthedutyholder.

Prior toUASoperations teammembersproceedingoffshore, theUASonshoremanagement shouldensurethatallpersonnelcomplyfullywithmedicalandsafetyandsurvivaltrainingrequirementsandareinpossessionoftheappropriatecertificates.

3.3.2 ManifestingandTransportingUASEquipmentOffshorebyAirorSea

UASequipmentauthorisedfortransportationtoanoffshorelocationshouldbepacked,manifestedanddespatchedinaccordancewiththedutyholderandUAScompanycargohandlingprocedures.

EquipmentclassifiedasdangerousgoodsshouldbetransportedinaccordancewithIATAregulationsforaircargo,andInternationalMaritimeDangerousGoodsregulationsformarinecargotransfers.

3.3.3 DangerousGoodsCompliance(e.g.Batteries)

Theremaybearequirementtotransportbatteriestoanoffshoreoilandgasinstallationviaairfreight.Ifso,thebatteriesmustbepackagedandtransportedaspertheIATADangerousGoodsRegulationsrelevanttothespecificbatterytype.Appropriateinformationandinstructionsshouldbehighlightedonamaterialsafetydatasheetthatisspecifictothebattery.

ItshouldbenotedthatinadditiontocomplyingwithDangerousGoodsbyAirRegulationsforbatterytransport by air to an offshore installation,UAS operators should be fully conversantwith theHCAcertificateassociatedwithoffshoreplatforms.WhereanHCAcertificatestates"nodangerousgoodsbyairtothisplatform"thisruleshouldbecompliedwithatalltimes.

WitheffectfromApril2016UN3480,PI965,SectionIAandIB.Lithiumioncellsandbatteriesmustbeofferedfortransportatastateofchargenottoexceed30%oftheirrateddesigncapacity.Cellsand/orbatteriesatastateofchargegreaterthan30%oftheirratedcapacitymayonlybeshippedwiththeapprovaloftheStateofOriginandtheStateoftheOperatorunderthewrittenconditionsestablishedbythoseauthorities2.

3.3.4 StorageandMaintenanceofUASEquipmentOffshore

WhilstUASequipment is locatedonanoffshore installationproperstorageshouldbeallocatedandroutinemaintenanceoftheequipmentshouldbeauthorisedandsupervisedbydesignateddutyholderstaff,inparticularforthesafestorageandchargingofbatteries.

2Seeguidance:http://www.iata.org/whatwedo/cargo/dgr/Documents/lithium-battery-guidance-document-2016-en.pdf


4 OperatingUnmannedAircraftSystems

4.1 UASOperatingRequirementsandAuthorisations

This document aims to provide guidance to commercial operators wishing to engage in UAS flightoperationstoundertakesurveillanceandinspectionservicesfortheUKoilandgasindustry.

TheaimofacommercialUASserviceistocollectimagesanddataonoffshoreoilandgasassetsusingavarietyofon-boardpayloads.

ToundertakeaUAScommercialoperationintheUK,permissionisrequiredfromtheUKCAA.TheUASserviceprovidermustalsobeaUKregisteredcompany.

ForUASoperationsinothercountries,theUASoperatorshouldengagewiththeappropriatenationalaviation authority to obtain the necessary permissions (where required). If there is no ‘in country’legislativeframeworkandguidanceinplacetosupportcommercialUASoperations,asaminimum,theoperationalstandardshouldbetheICAOguidelines.

Intheabsenceofmoredetailedoperatingguidelines it is recommendedthatUASoperatorscomplywithCAACAP722,IOGPandOil&GasUKUASOperationsManagementStandardsandGuidelines,asappropriate to theoperation. Inparticular, theUASpilot trainingandcompetencerequirements forworkingonoilandgasinfrastructureshouldbeadheredto.

4.1.1 CAAPermissionforCommercialOperations

UASoperatorsshouldusetheUKCAAPermissionforCommercialOperationsstandardasthebaselineforallUASactivitiescarriedoutontheUKCS.

4.1.2 UAS‘PermissiontoOperate’Standard

Thefollowingdocumentsprescribetherequirementsforgaining‘permissiontooperate’inUKairspace.

• AirNavigationOrder

• CAAPermission(www.caa.co.uk)

• CAP722UnmannedAircraftSystemsOperationinUKAirspace

• SRG1320–ApplicationforOperationofaSmallUnmannedAircraft

UnlesspermittedbyanappropriateUASoperationalsafetycase(OSC)thefollowingbasicrequirementsapplyfor20kgorlessUASontheUKCS:

• UASmustremainwithinvisualrange.

• TheUASmustnot flywithin50mof anyperson, vehicle, vesselor structurenotunder thecontroloftheRemotePilot.

• TheUASmustnotflywithin30metresfromanypersonduringtakingoffandlanding.

• Normalvisualrangereferstowithin400feetverticallyand500mhorizontally.


• Don’t flyoverorwithin150metresofcongestedareaoranorganisedopen-airassemblyofmorethan1000persons[ANOarticle95(2)(b)refers].

4.1.3 SafetyManagementSystem

UASoperatorsshouldhaveinplaceaSMSforthepurposesofoilandgasUASoperations.TheSMSisanorganisedapproachtomanagingsafetyandshouldincludethenecessaryorganisationalstructures,accountabilities, policies and procedures. Inherent within the SMS is a requirement for safetymanagement to be integrated into the day-to-day activities of the UAS operator. It requires thedevelopmentofanorganisationalculturethatreflectsthesafetypolicyandobjectives.

AtthecoreoftheSMSisaformalriskmanagementprocessthatidentifieshazardsandassessesandmitigatesrisk.Aspartoftheriskmanagementprocessitshouldconsiderrisksgeneratedbycontractedactivities. Therefore,when the organisation has a formal agreementwith another organisation thisshouldincludeprovisionsforthemanagementofsafety.

4.1.4 QualityManagement

A formalqualitymanagement systemshouldbe inplace.UASoperatingcompanies shouldhold ISO9001certification.Thiscertificationscopeshouldcoveralltheareasofthebusinessthatcontributetotheoilandgasactivities.

The ISO9001:2008or2015certificateshallbe issuedbyanAuthority thathasbeencertifiedto ISO17021standards.

4.2 UASOperatorTrainingandCompetence

4.2.1 Introduction

CommercialUASoperationscanvarysignificantlyintermsofthetrainingandexperiencerequiredforanoperator/pilottobeconsideredcompetentforaspecifictask.

CurrentlytherearetwomaintypesofUASoperationthatarecarriedoutinanoffshoreenvironment:

a. Aerialphotography/survey/security

Theseoperations typically involve flying inanopen spaceaway fromstructures.Anexampleof thiswouldbetakingoverviewphotographsofanoffshoreplatform.Thistaskrequiresalowerlevelofskillthancloseinspectionflyingasthepilotwillhavemoretimeandspacetoreacttoasystemanomalyorfailureorchangeinweatherconditions.Nevertheless,thepilotshouldundertakeadditionaltrainingtoanagreedsyllabusandbeassessedascompetentagainstanindustryapprovedsetofcriteriabeforebeingdeemedcompetenttocarryoutanoffshoreaerialphotographyorsurveytasks.

b. Inspectionoperations

TheseoperationsaccountforthemajorityofUASactivitiesoffshore.Thisusually involvesflyingoverwaterandclosetoandevenunderstructuresinordertogetdetailedimageryordataoftheasset.Anexamplewouldbeconductingaclosevisualinspectionofaflareboom.Flyingclosetostructurescarries


apotentiallyhigherdegreeofriskasthepilothaslesstimetoreacttoanunplannedevent.Thereisalsoahigherprobabilityofencounteringturbulentair,thepresenceofexplosiveatmospheresandsystemsanomaliescausedbyseveremagneticdisturbancelossofGPS,etc.Thepilotshouldthereforereceiveadditionaltrainingtoanagreedsyllabusandbeassessedascompetentagainstanindustryapprovedset of criteria before being deemed competent to carry out offshore inspection operations. Thesecriteriawillbemorerigorousthanthoserequiredforaerialphotography/surveyactivities.

4.2.2 ManagingUASTeamTrainingandCompetence

CommercialUASoperatingcompanieswillgenerallybeexpectedtomanageandconducttheirflyingactivitiesinamannersimilartoestablishedaviationindustrypractices.Thisincludespromulgatingthepolicies,practicesandproceduresrequiredforUASpilotandsupportteamtraining,recurrenttraining,competenceandcurrencyrequirementsandlinechecks,etc.

Processes for UAS pilot selection, initial and recurrent type training, currency requirements,competenceassessment and record keeping shouldbedeterminedby the individualUASoperatingcompanyandbeembeddedintheSMS.Tothisend,theUASoperatingcompanyoperationsmanualshouldhavedetailedUAStypetrainingandrecurrenttrainingpoliciesandadequatesystemsinplaceforundertakingperiodiccompetencychecksforeachoffshoreUASoperativegrade/teammember.

WithrapidadvancesinthedeploymentofUASitisacknowledgedthatpotentialoffshoreUASpilotswillbedrawnfromapoolofabinitiocandidates,qualifiedfixedandrotarywingflightpilotsandex.servicepersonnel with previous UAS operational pilot experience. With this in mind it is important forcommercialUASoperatingcompaniestostructuretheirtrainingandcompetenceassessmentpoliciestoembracebothmodular fixedexperience (hoursbased)andapproved integratedab-initio training(competencybased).

TheUAS operating company should alsomaintain up-to-date records of qualifications, training andcompetenceassessmentsforeachindividualUASpilot/crewmemberassignedtooffshoreUASduties.

Trainingrecords,alongwiththeoperationsandtrainingmanual,shouldbemadeavailablefordetailedexaminationbyacompetentaviationauditorappointedbytheoilandgascompanydutyholder,priortodeployingaUASteamoffshore.

OilandgascompanyaviationauditorsshouldusetheaviationauditingstandardsalreadypublishedbyOil&GasUKandIOGPforfixedandrotarywingandgenerallyapplythesetoUASoperations,withminoramendment.

4.2.3 RemotePilotSelectionStandard

ThecommercialUAScompanyselectionprocessforemployingpotentialUASpilots,engineeringandsupportstaffandcontractorsshouldfollowastructuredandwelldefinedprocessthatiscommonplaceintheaviationindustryforrecruitingpersonnelfortrainingtooperateaslicensedprofessionals.

Followingsuccessfulapplication,acandidateshouldproceedtopersonalandtechnical interviews,apractical UAS flight assessment and psychometric profiling. To achieve the goal of qualifying as anoffshoreUASpilot,candidatesshouldalsobeabledemonstrateanaptitudeforworkingandflyingUASinahostileenvironment.


4.2.4 RemotePilotInitialTrainingandExperience

Operating aUAS in and around critical infrastructure such as oil refineries andoffshoreoil and gasinstallationsrequiresexperiencedandspecificallytrainedremotepilots.Therearemanyvariablestobeconsideredduringtheplanning forandexecutionofaUASsurveyand/or inspection.Manyof thesevariablescanbetaughtinabenignenvironmentbutasignificantnumbercomeonlyfromexperienceandcompetencegainedbyflyinginandarounddifferentstructuresinahostileenvironment.

TheUKCAAmandatesaminimumstandardthatanindividualmustbeabletodemonstratetoobtainaCertificateofCompetence.

Initially,anoffshoreoilandgasremotepilotshouldattendandpassexaminationsataUASflighttraininggroundschoolcoursefollowedbypracticalflightassessmentsconductedbyaUKCAAnationalqualifiedentity (NQE). In the event that a candidate has, and can clearly demonstrate, appropriatepreviousexperience(qualifiedservicepilotetc.)anexemptionmaybegranted.

Theinitialtrainingcourseshouldincludebutnotnecessarilybelimitedto:

Theory

• Airlawresponsibilities

• Airmanshipandaviationsafety

• Humanfactors

• Metcombined

• Principlesofflight

• UAScomponents

• Airspaceclassification

• Basicmapreading

• Operatingprocedures

The theory sections may be waivered by the UK CAA for individuals holding other formal aviationqualifications(privatepilotlicense,commercialpilotlicense,airlinetransportpilot).

PracticalFlightAssessment

• Student must be able to demonstrate skills including take-off, climb, descent, turning,maintainingaltitudeandlanding

• Recoveryfromunusualsituations–lostlink,flyaway,etc.

• Assessmentsshouldbecarriedoutusingallflightmodes(inparticularmanualflightmode)ifstudentsareintendingtoundertakeoffshoreoperations.

Regardlessofpriorexperience,allpotentialoil andgas remotepilotsare required toobtainabasicCertificateofCompetencefromaUKCAAaccreditedNQEbeforeundertakingspecificoffshoreoilandgastrainingandcertification.Obtainingthisleveloftraining,experienceanddemonstratedcompetenceisvitaltoensureaUASsystemisoperatedinasafeandprofessionalmanneratalltimes.


4.2.5 OffshoreRemotePilotandSupportCrewTraining,RecurrentTraining,CompetenceandCurrencyRequirements

ThecommercialUAScompanytrainingsystemforcandidatestoadvancetowardgainingaUASpilotauthorisationforundertakingoffshoreoilandgasactivitiesshouldbepromulgatedintheoperationsmanual.

The ground school and flight syllabus covering advanced offshore flight training (including UASinspections type flight training for camera and inspection operations) and a formal assessment ofcompetenceagainstanagreedlistofcriteria,isrequiredbeforeastudentispermittedtoactasaremotepilotforoilandgasprojects.Trainingshouldincludebutnotbelimitedto:

GroundTraining:

• Furthersystemstraining–GPSvulnerabilities,magneticinterferenceissuesandflightsystemdependencies–TripleIMU,Baro,GPSandinteractionwiththeflightcontrolsystems

• Hazardawarenessandriskmanagementincomplexindustrialenvironments

• Datacollectiontechniques

OnshoreFlightTraining:

• Operationsinmagneticinterferenceareas

• Operationsincongestedarea

• Operationsinpotentiallyexplosiveenvironments

• Manualflightskillsassessmentsinconfinedareasandclosetostructures

Typically,8hoursgroundinstructionand2hoursflightinstruction(byaqualifiedUASpilotinstructor)culminatinginacompanyassessmentforcompetenceinindustrialenvironments(onshore).

OnceacandidateisassessedassuitableforupgradingtooffshoreUASpilot,studentsshouldundertakeafurthertrainingpackage:

GroundTraining:

• MIST/BOSIET–industrymandated(notincludedinthetrainingtimes)

• DangerousGoodsbyAirtraining3dayPackerandShippercourse(UKCAAmandatedtrainingrequirement)-(notincludedinthetrainingtimes)

• Advancedsystemsknowledge–flightsystemstheory

– GPSmultipath

– Accelerometerandgyroerrors

– Magneticinterferenceinfluenceonflightsystems

– Electromagneticinterferenceeffects

– Localbarometricpressureanomaliesandeffects

– Autopilotcontroltheory,Kalmanfiltersandcombinationeffectsofsensordegradation

– Offshoreweatherandseainfluences

• Additionalhazardawarenessandriskmanagementincomplexoffshoreenvironments


• Advanceddatacollectiontechniques

FlightTraining:

• Advancedmanualflight–look-downscenarios,closetostructures,allorientations

• Operationsfrommagneticinterferenceinducingstructures

• OperationsunderdeckandlookdownscenariosincludingGPSdenied

• Closevisualinspectionoperationsatdistances>50mfrompilotposition

• Operatingininducedturbulenceandrotorstreamingareas

• Recoveryfrom

Typically,8hoursgroundinstructionand15hoursscenariobasedflightinstruction(byaqualifiedUASPilot Instructor) culminating in a company assessment for competence in industrial environments(onshore).

NewlygraduatedoffshoreUASpilotsshouldinitiallybesupervised/mentoredon-sitebyanexperiencedindustrialsurvey/inspectionUASpilotinstructor.Thisperiodofsupervisedwork(e.g.aminimumof5hours logged flight time on the UAS type) should be carried out in an industrial/commercialsurvey/inspectionenvironment (eitheronshoreoroffshore)beforebeingconsideredforanoffshorePICrole.

RecurrentTraining

UASpilotrecurrenttrainingandlinechecksshouldbecarriedoutevery6monthsbyaqualifiedUASpilotinstructor.

4.2.6 MinimumCrewCompositionandCompetenceRequirements

ForthepurposesofoilandgassurveysandinspectionsusingUAS,theUASoperatingcompanyshoulddeploy, at all times, aminimumcrewcompositionof twopersons forming the ‘UAS team’plusoneobserverprovidedbythedutyholder.TheUASteamshouldbecomprisedofthefollowingqualifiedandcurrentindividuals:

1. Remotepilot(PIC)/payloadoperator(surveycamera)

2. Remotepilot(PIC)/inspectionengineer(cameraoperator)

SeeAppendixD-UASPersonnelTraining,ExperienceandCompetenceMatrix forasummaryof thetraining,experienceandcompetencerequirementsforpersonnelintendingtoengageinoffshoreUASsurveyandinspectionoperations.

A team made up of two newly qualified pilots each with less than 10 hours supervisedindustrial/commercialsurvey/inspectionflightexperienceonairframetypeshouldnotbeconsideredassafetoworkinanoffshoreenvironment.

4.2.7 UASObserver

Toassuresafeoperations,theUASteamandaircraftshouldbevisuallyobservedbyaresponsiblepersonfamiliar to the asset and its operational safety requirements. Theobserver shouldbe the radio link


between the UAS team and the asset to assure agreed process is being followed against the pre-determinedsafetyplanandcorrectactionsaretakenineventofanassetincident(calltomuster,etc.)duringUASoperations.

TheobservermustbeallowedtoseetheUASwithoutbeingimmersedinavirtualworldwhichprecludesthemfromspottingotherhazards(e.g.remotevideoterminalsfirst-personviewoperations).Therefore,theuseofvideogogglesisnotacceptablewhileperformingobserverduties.

4.2.8 CAANationalQualifiedEntity

InadditiontotheirUKCAAaccreditationwith fullprivileges,NQE’sshouldobtain formaloilandgasindustry (e.g. Oil & Gas UK, IOGP) acceptance prior to undertaking oil and gas specific UAS pilotcompetenceassessments.

4.3 UASEquipment

4.3.1 UASRotorcraftAirframe/LoadPlatform

Therearecurrentlynoofficial(e.g.UKCAA)airworthinessrequirementsthatsetaminimumstandardforUASmanufacturersortheUAS.

In lieuofofficialUASairworthinesscertificationforairframe/powerplanttypes/configurationsbeingoperated in an oil and gas offshore environment, the selected UAS aircraft type should haveaccumulated a minimum of 250 hours operational history (e.g. using one or more airframes) incommercialoperationsdocumentedbytheoriginalequipmentmanufacturer.Theoperationalhistoryshouldincludebutnotbelimitedtofullairworthinessandsystemsreliabilityinformationincludingmeantime between failures and mean time between outages data and be supported by evidence frommanufacturing processes and testing schedules. The exception to this requirement is experimentalsystems,fortestingpurposes.

ThechoiceofUASairframe/powerplant/loadplatformconfigurationforspecifictasksistherefore,theresponsibilityoftheUASserviceproviderandshouldincludethefollowingconsiderationsduringtheUASairframe/loadplatformselectionprocess:

• Areliable(reliabilitydatashouldbeavailable)andsafefit-for-purposeUASsystem

• PreviousUASoperatorexperienceofairframetype

• UASoperatorhasputinplaceanadequateSMSappropriatetotheUASofchoice

• AdequateUASremotepilottrainingontheUASofchoice

• The following criteria should be inherent in the selected UAS system to qualify as ‘fit-for-purpose’foroilandgasoperations:

• TheUAS airframe is of robust design and construction (materials and component selectionshouldbeproperlyqualified)

• TheUASiscapableofsustainedflightbyaerodynamicmeans

• TheUASisremotelyoperatedeithermanuallyorautomaticallythroughagroundcontrolstationcontrolledbytheremotepilot


• TheUASisreusable

• TheUAShasrobustlossoflinkcapabilityandresistancetocyberattack

• TheUASmaximumoperatingrangeisaccuratelydefinedandformallyrecordedtoensure,asfarasreasonablepracticable,thatundernormaloperatingconditionsaflyawayeventisunlikelytooccur.

• TheUAShasflightcontrolredundancyandisequippedwiththefollowingmodesandsoftwarearchitecture:

– AutomaticGPSmodes(unlessbeingoperatedinaGPSdeniedenvironment)

– Automaticheightmodes

– Manualbackupmodes

– ‘GoToHome’capability

• The UAS should have a mobile control station equipped with manual controls and backupcapabilitywhenautomaticmodesarenotavailabletotheremotepilot

The UAS should have the ability to be landed in a controlled manner in the event of a singlemotor/propulsionfailure.

4.3.2 UASPowerPlantsandRotorSystems

Thepowerplants(e.g.electricalmotors)arecriticalcomponentsandhaveadirecteffectonoverallUASperformance.AllpowerplantsusedintheUASshouldberoutinelyandproperlymaintainedaspartoftheUASsystemmaintenanceprogramme.

TheUASsystemsmaintenanceprogrammeshouldbefullydetailedintheoperationsmanual.

Multi-rotorUAS platforms should possess sufficient redundancy in the propulsion/rotors system; inordertopermitcontinued,fullycontrolledflightwithanyonepowerplantinoperative.

Note:Sufficientpropulsion/rotorsystemredundancytoachieveahighlevelofflightsafetyisunlikelytobeachievedwithaquadcopter.

TheUASserviceproviderisrequiredtoprovideperformancedataonthetypeofpowerplantbeingusedand howenvironmental conditions inwhich theUAS is being operated affects power plant output.Additionally, thisperformancedata shouldextend todeterminationofhowusage (i.e. accumulatedoperatingtime)reducespowerplantperformance.Thisisanimportantsafetyfactor.

4.3.3 UASBatteryRequirements

Batteries used for powering the UAS propulsion/rotor systems (including electronic speed control),flightcontrolsystems(e.g.receivers,transmitters,servosandflightmanagement)and loadplatformcomponents(e.g.cameras,etc.)varygreatlyintype,capacityandoperatingcharacteristics.Invariably,thebatteriesusedinUASwillbesusceptibletoimpactdamageandincorrectcharging,amongotherthings(e.g.ambienttemperature).


ItisthereforeimperativethattheUASserviceprovideroperationsmanualfullydetailsallthebatterytypes used (e.g. LiPo, NiMH, Li-ion, Alkaline) and the associated safety instructions/precautions forbatterymanagement,charginganddischarging,packingandcarriagebyairandseaandbatterydisposal.

4.3.3.1 BatteryManagement

HealthyandfullyfunctioningbatteriesareintegraltoensuringthesafeandefficientoperationofanUASandcompletingtheassignedtasksinatimelymanner.Toensurethis,UASserviceprovidersshouldhaveabatterymanagementsysteminplacethatasaminimumshouldincludethefollowingkeyareas:

• Battery Inventory – Toensure sufficient batteries are available for the assigned task and toprovideaccountabilityforallbatteriestransportedtoandusedattheworksite.

• BatteryCharging-Lithiumpolymer(LiPo)batteriesshouldbehandledandmanagedwithgreatcaretoensuretheyremainundamagedandproperlyprotectedduringcharginganddischargingcyclesandcell testing.Duringcharging,dischargingandcell testingLiPobatteries shouldbeplacedinarobustfireproofenclosuretocontainanyfireconditionthatmaypotentiallyarise(i.e.duetoshortingbetweencells).

• BatteryHealthChecks–specificchecks(dependingonbatterytype)arecarriedouttoensurethatbatteriesareinasuitableconditionandretaintherequisitechargetocompletethetasksafely.Anybatterythatdoesnotreachtheminimumstandardsorshowssignsofbeingfaultyshould be removed from the battery line immediately, quarantined and recorded on theinventory.

Onnoaccountshoulddamagedorfaultybatteriesbetransportedbyair.SeealsoSection2.3.3forthechargestaterequiredforairtransportation.

• BatteryDisposal–Damagedorunderperformingbatteriesshouldberemovedfromthebatteryline,quarantinedandnotedonthetaskinventory.

IfabatteryisdamagedorisfoundfaultywhilstonanoffshoreinstallationitshouldbebroughttotheattentionoftheOIMandsignedovertothepersonontheinstallationresponsibleformanagingdisposalofhazardouswastefromtheinstallation.Theinstallationwillhaveproceduresinplaceforhazardouswastedisposalandthesebatteriesshouldbefullydischargedandbroughtashore(bysea)anddisposedof by a registered waste collection company compliant with Environmental Agency guidelines. Thenumberoftimesabatteryhasbeenchargedanddischargedshouldberecorded.

4.3.4 UASElectronicandDataCaptureSystemsRequirements

Datacaptureshouldalwaysbemadeinitsrawformat.Considerationsshouldbegiventothefollowing:

• Datacapturemadeintherawformat

• Metadataassociatedwiththeimageryshouldbeavailable

• Maintenanceoftheintegrityoftherawimageryduringthestorageprocess

• Alterationsoramendmentstotherawimagerystoredseparatetooriginalrawdataimageandassociatedmetadata

DatastoragefromSDcardororiginharddrivetocentralservershouldensurethefollowing:


• Continuouschainofcustody

• Localstoragedataencryption

• Centralstoragedataencryption

• Oncedatacentrallyheld,appropriatesecuritypolicyandbackupmanagement

4.4 UASLimitations

4.4.1 VisualConditionsforOperations

Theterm‘dayvisualmeteorologicalconditions(VMC)’doesnotreallyapplytovisuallineofsight(VLOS)operationsbecausetherearenospecificallylaiddownVMCcriteriaforthis. AUAScanbeoperatedsafelyontheexteriorofaninstallationinweatherconditionsthataremuchlowerthantheVMCminima.

ThekeyelementisthattheUASiskeptwithinthedirect,unaidedVLOSofthepersonflyingitandthevisualobserver–inotherwords,theremotepilotandvisualobserverhastobeabletoseetheaircraftatall times. Thisprinciplecanbecarriedontonightoperationstoo. If theaircraftcanbeseenandcontrolledsafelyinthedarkat‘nighttime’,forexamplewhenflyinginafloodlitarea,thereshouldbenomajorreasontopreventtheflighttakingplace-again,thekeypointiswhetherornottheUAScanbeseenclearlyenoughbytheoperatives.

Wherenighttimeoperationsarerequiredontheexteriorofaninstallation,aspecificUASOSCmustbeobtainedandapprovedbytheUKCAAandassetdutyholder(s)aviationsafetydepartment.

UASoperationsinconfinedspacessuchastanksandvoidsshouldbesubjecttospecialconsideration,riskassessmentandrigorousworkpermitcontrols.VisualconditionsinthesecaseswillbedependentontheprovisionofsufficientartificiallightingtoallowgoodvisualreferencestobeobtainedtoensurethatproperUAScontrolcanbemaintainedthroughouttheflightduration.

4.4.2 WeatherConsiderations

4.4.2.1 Wind

Thedutyholderadverseweatherpolicyisthecontrollingfactorforalloffshoreinstallationoperations.ThisincludesUASflights.

UASgenerallyoperatewellbelowtheset limitsofan installationadverseweatherpolicysotheUASoperationalenvelopeshouldspecifythewindlimitsforthetypeofUASmachineinuseandthetypeofoperationsbeingconducted.

Dueto theextremeweatherconditionsencounteredoffshoreontheUKCS,aUASshould ideallybecapableofbeingoperatedsafelyinwindspeedsofupto25knotsinordertoofferapracticaloperationalenvelope.

IftheweatherforecastshowsthatwindconditionsareanticipatedtobeoutsideoftheUASoperatinglimitsatsomestageduringtheflyingtask,theremotepilotshouldlandtheUAS30minutespriortotheforecastedchange.


4.4.2.2 Precipitation

Rain and moisture can affect some exposed parts of the UAS and its payload but, additionally, itpotentiallydegradesthequalityoftheimagery.ThisisanimportantconsiderationfortheUASoperatorwhenselectingtheUASsystem(e.g.airframeandpayload)forthespecifiedtaskandshouldbefullyconsideredintheRiskAssessmentandMethodStatement.

4.5 RecordKeeping

Full formal and detailed records of UAS flights, flight hours, tasking and maintenance should bemaintainedbytheUASserviceproviderandtheserequirementsshouldbeprescribedintheoperationsmanual.

AllUASoperatives(e.g.pilots,observers,maintainers,etc.)shouldbeinpossessionofalogbookthatprovides a continuous personal record of individual qualifications, regulatory and companyauthorisations,training,recurrenttraining,taskcompetenciesandflights/taskingcarriedout.


Appendices

A SampleContentforUASOperationalSafetyPlan/SafetyCase

ThesafetyplanisanimportantoperationaldocumentspecifictooilandgasoperationsandshouldbemandatoryforalloilandgasUASsurveillanceandinspectionoperations.Thepurposeofthesafetyplanis for the duty holder to fully understand the safety and communications procedures that a UASoperationsteamwillfollowduringthetasking,priortogivingapprovalfortheprojecttoproceed.Thesafetyplanshouldcontainthefollowingdetails:

1. Introduction

2. UASSpecificationsandLimits

a. UAStechnicalspecifications

b. Limitationsandrestrictions

3. Operationdescription

a. Scopeofwork(s)tobeexecuted

b. Requiredequipmentandpersonnel

c. Securingtheairspace

d. Take-offandlandingsites

e. Airborneproceduresincludingdetailsofflightpaths

f. Communicationprotocol

4. OperationsRestrictedAccess

5. Alarms

a. Fireandgasrelease

b. Blowdown/increasedflareratedrill

6. PreventiveMatters

a. Propfailure

b. Lossofpayload/droppedobjectrisk

c. Batteryfailure

d. Lossofcommunicationlink

e. Resistancetomagneticdisturbancesandanomaly

f. Logfilerecording


B SampleContentforUASOperatorOperationsManual

PartA–General

1. OrganisationandResponsibility

a. Scope

b. Purpose

c. Companystructureandaccountablemanagers(includeorganogram)

d. UASservicesdescription

e. UASequipmentoverview

f. Regulationsandguidance

i. Aviationregulatorycompliance

ii. Oilandgasindustryguidance

g. Operationsandtrainingpersonnel

i. Operationsdirector/operationsmanager

ii. Remotepilot

iii. UAScamera/payloadoperator

iv. Remotepilotinstructor

2. CompanyAuthorisations

a. Operationdescription

b. UKCAAPermissionforAerialWork

c. Otherpermissions(ifapplicable)

d. Companypersonneltrainingandcompetencyrequirements

e. Company personnel medical requirements and certification (e.g. national private pilotlicencedeclarationisaminimum)

3. RiskAnalysisModel

a. Policy

b. Riskassessment

c. Methodstatement

d. Safetyplan

4. SafetyManagementSystem

5. QualityControlSystem

a. ISO9001:2008

6. RestTimePolicyandHumanFactors

a. Policy

b. Humanfactors

7. GeneralOperatingProceduresandRestrictions

a. Remotepilotbasicrequirements

i. Remotepilotqualification


ii. Conduct

iii. Remotepilotspecificduties

iv. Competency

b. Metassessment

c. Pre-flightduties

d. Airspacemanagement

e. Flightprocedures

f. VLOS

g. UASsystembasicrequirements

h. Checklistprocedures

i. Checklistinformation

j. UASteamoperations

k. Lossoflink

l. Airworthiness

m. Post-flightdutiesn. TechLog

o. Logbook

8. AccidentsandIncidents

a. Incidentreporting

b. Post-accidentmanagement

c. Remotepilotgrounding

9. TypesofOperations

a. Description

b. VLOS

c. Authorisedoperations

PartB–UASSystemManual

1. General

2. Checklists

3. DescriptionoftheUAS

a. Unmannedaircraft

b. Mobilecontrolstation

c. Payloads

d. Batteriesandchargers

e. Transportcase

4. UASOperation

a. Generalsafety

b. Flightmodes


i. GPSmode

ii. Heightmode

iii. Manualmode

c. Automatedsystemchecks

d. Emergencymodes

e. UASsetupprocedures

f. Missioncontrolstationsetupprocedures

g. Flightphase

i. Launchprocedure

ii. Missionprocedure

iii. Recoveryprocedure

h. Visualandacousticwarnings

i. Limitationsinformation

5. StatusDisplay

a. Functions

b. Emergencymodes

c. Displaymenus

6. WaypointNavigation

a. Automation

b. Moderedundancy

c. Geo-reference

d. GPS

e. Payloadcontrol

f. RVTpayloadcontrol

PartC–AuthorisedOperations

1. OilandGasInfrastructureInspections

a. Introduction

i. General

ii. Applicabledocuments

iii. Onshoreinspection

iv. Offshoreinspection

2. StandardOperatingProcedures(SOP)

a. Preparation

i. UASminimumserviceability

ii. Infrastructurestudy

iii. Equipmentandinventory

iv. Operationsassignment


v. Safetyplan

vi. Riskassessment

vii. Methodstatement

b. Inspectiontypes

i. Onshore

ii. Offshore

PartD–RemotePilotTraining

1. General

a. Policy

b. Objectives

c. Applicabledocuments

d. ApprovedtrainingUAS

e. Instructionalstaffdutiesandresponsibility

f. Operatorinstructor

g. Traineeevaluation

2. GroundSchool

a. General

b. Objectives

i. Coursedescription

ii. Coursecontents

iii. Supplementarytraining

c. Oilandgasminimumtraining

i. BOSIET

ii. MIST

iii. Offshoremedical

iv. Norwegianchute

3. CameraOperationTraining

a. UASteamoperations

b. Remoteviewingterminal(RVT)-Ifrequired/permitted.

c. Communicationsprocedure

4. IndustrySpecificOilandGasUASInspectionEngineerTraining

a. Payloadoperations.

5. InitialUASTraining

a. General

b. TrainingUASfamiliarisation

c. Emergencyprocedures

d. DegradedmodeUASflighttraining


e. GPS

f. Height

g. Manual

h. InitialUAStrainingflighttest

6. AdvancedUASTraining

a. General

b. Inspectionstrainingagainstinfrastructure

c. Taskspecificflighttraining(e.g.surveillance,photographic,infrastructureinspection)

d. AdvancedUAStrainingflighttest

7. UASInspectionTypeTraining

a. InspectionUASfamiliarization

i. Payload

ii. Circuits

iii. Modes–GPS;height;manual

iv. Emergency

b. InspectionUAStypetrainingagainststructures

c. Typetrainingflighttest

d. Remotepilotconsolidationtraining

e. Scope

f. UASteamops

g. Mentorprogramme

PartE–UASMaintenanceandServicing

1. Policy

a. UASmaintenancepolicy

b. UASmaintenanceschedulesandperiodicity

2. UASAccountableManagersandTechnicians

a. Independentchecks

b. ExtensionsandU/Sequipmentredlineentries

3. TechnicalLog

4. MinimumEquipmentList

5. SparesStoresandInventories

6. UASCleaning

7. Batteries

a. Inspectionprocedures

b. Storageanddisposal

c. Transport(includingDangerousGoodsrequirements)

d. Chargingpracticesandprecautions


e. TrackingandInventoryarrangements

8. RoutineMaintenance

a. Missioncontrolstation

b. Otherinspectionsequipment


C IOGPUnmannedAerialSystemOperationalData-Form


D UASPersonnelTraining,ExperienceandCompetenceMatrix

Selection,Training&CompetenceActivity

TotalUASFlightHours

Frequency Provider

UASOffshoreTeamLeader

UASOffshorePilotin

Comm

and

UASOffshorePilot

UASOffshorePayload

Operator/Inspection

Engineer

UASOffshoreSafety

ObserverSeeNote1

Remarks/Curriculum/Qualifictions

InitialUASPilotTraining SeeNote2 InitialCommercialUAS

OperatingCompany√ √

InitialUASPayloadOperatorTraining

N/A Initial CommercialUASOperatingCompany

√ √

PsychometricProfiling N/A InitialAsdirectedbyUASOperatingCompany

√ √ √ √

BASICUASPILOT&PAYLOADOPERATORTRAINING&COMPETENCEASSESSMENT

PayloadOperatorsshouldundergoastructuredin-houseinitialtrainingcourseasdefinedintheOperationsManualandassessedandcertifiedascompetentbytheCommercialUASOperatingCompanyOperationsDirectorordelegatedauthority.

InitialtrainingandcompetenceassessmentshallmeettheCAAmandatedminimumstandardsforobtaininga"CertificateofCompetence"aftersuccessfulcompletionofagroundtrainingschoolcourseandpracticalflightassessments,byaCAANationalQualifiedEntity(NQE).

Thisshouldbeanintegralpartofthepilot/payloadoperatorselectionprocessandshouldbecoveredintheCompanyOperationsManualbyaclearlystatedrecruitmentpolicy.



TotalUASFlightHours

Frequency Provider


UASOffshorePilotin

Comm

and

UASOffshorePilot

UASOffshorePayload

Operator/Inspection

Engineer

UASOffshoreSafety

ObserverSeeNote1


OffshoreOil&GasUAScameraoperationsandvisualinspectiontraining

andcompetenceassessment

Typically15hrsscenario

basedtrainingonshore

Priortoactiveoffshoreduties

CommercialUASOperatingCompany

√ √

UASOffshorePilotinCommandcurrency(Note

3)

50hrsminimum

Minimumof3take-offsand

landingsinlast90days.


√

OffshoreUASPilotcurrency(Note3)

10hrsminimum

Minimumof3take-offsand

landingsinlast90days.

QualifiedUASPilotInstructor

√

PayloadOperator/InspectionEngineer

currency5hrs Minimum


√

UASTechnician N/A N/ACommercialUAS

OperatingCompany√

UASFLIGHTTRAINING&COMPETENCEREQUIREMENTSFOROFFSHOREOPERATIONS

UASTechnician/Engineertohaveundergoneformalin-housemaintenancetrainingontheUAStypeairframe,powersystemandremoteequipmentandassessedandcertifiedascompetentbytheCommercialUASOperatingCompanyEngineeringDirectorordelegatedauthority.

PayloadOperator/InspectionEngineershouldhaveundergoneformalin-housetrainingontheremoteequipmentinstalledontheUASandassessedascompetentbytheCommercialUASOperatingCompanyOperationsDirectorordelegatedauthority.

BeforebeingconsideredforaLeadOffshoreUASPilotroleappropriateselection,trainingandcompetenceassessmentsshouldbecarriedoutbyacompetentauthorityinanindustrial/commercialinspectionenvironmenteitheronshoreoroffshore.

Mandatoryforstudenttocompleteadvancedgroundschool(includingcameraoperationsandvisualinspection),completeadvancedflightsyllabus(includingmanualflightprocedures)andpassformalcompetenceassessment(againstagreedindustrycriteriabyaqualifiedUASPilotInstructor)priortoreceivingpermissiontoactasaremoteUASpilotonoffshoreoilandgasprojects.

NewlygraduatedoffshoreUASpilotsshouldinitiallybesupervised/mentoredon-siteforaminimumof5hoursloggedflighttimebyanexperiencedindustrialsurvey/inspectionUASPilotInstructor.



TotalUASFlightHours

Frequency Provider


UASOffshorePilotinComm

and

UASOffshorePilot

UASOffshorePayloadOperator

/InspectionEngineer

UASOffshoreSafetyObserver

SeeNote1


BOSIET N/A 3years OPITOAppv'd √ √ √ √ √

HUET N/A 3years OPITOAppv'd √ √ √ √ √

PTASS N/A 3years OPITOAppv'd √ √ √ √ √

OffshoreMedical N/A 3years N/A √ √ √ √ √

PermittoWork N/A Initial OPITOAppv'd √ √

DangerousGoodsbyAirCertification

N/A Initial CAAAppv'd √

DangerousGoodsbyAirCertificationRecurrent

N/A 2years CAAAppv'd √

RadioOperatorsLicence N/A Initial CAAAppv'd √ √ √ √

RadioOperatorRecurrent N/A Annual CAAAppv'd √ √ √ √

ADDITIONALOFFSHORESPECIFICTRAINING&COMPETENCEREQUIREMENTS

IndividualslevelofDGtrainingdeterminedbyIATARules.3dayPackerandShippercourse(CAAmandatedtrainingrequirement)

MandatoryformembersofUASTeamrequiredtoworkaerofrequenciestoobtainROCCcertificateorhaveCAAapprovedexemption.

ToretainAeroRadioOperatorsLicencetooperate.AssessmenttobecarriedoutbyaCAAapprovedAssessor.

IndividualslevelofDGtrainingdeterminedbyIATARules.3dayPackerandShippercourse(CAAmandatedtrainingrequirement)

Certificateobtained

Certificateobtained

CertificateobtainedincludingCAT'A'EBS.

Certificateobtained

Inaddition,thereisarequirementforinstallationspecificPTWbriefingpriortoundertakingUAStasking.


Notes:

1. TheoffshoreUASSafetyObservermaybeamemberoftheUASteamoranindividualnominatedbytheinstallation(e.g.anHLO);whohasbeenproperlybriefedaspartoftheUASTeampriortooffshoreUASoperationstakingplace.

2. UASOperatingCompaniesshouldstructuretheirtrainingandcompetenceassessmentpoliciestoembracebothModularFixedExperience(hoursbased)and Approved Integrated Ab-initio Training (competency based). Candidates who are qualified fixed and rotary wing flight pilots and ex. servicepersonnelwithpreviousUASoperationalpilotexperiencewhocanclearlydemonstrateappropriatepreviousexperience(QSP,etc.),maybegrantedanexemption.

3. UASPilotrecurrenttrainingandlinechecksshouldbecarriedoutonUASTypeevery6monthsbyaqualifiedUASPilotInstructor.


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