The Oil & Gas UK trade body has published a booklet to help guide the growing use offshore of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones.

The UAS Operations Management Standards and Guidelines were developed by a work group set up by the trade body, involving industry and aviation safety experts, plus UAS operators.

Oil & Gas UK director Mick Borwell said: “A small but increasing number of oil and gas operators are using UASs — mainly for inspections but also for aerial photography, surveying and security.

“The technology is particularly attractive for improving safety — for example, sending unmanned aircraft instead of people into confined spaces to conduct inspections reduces risk and is also effective and efficient.

“The guidelines have evolved from lessons learned in recent years and provide information about best practice, procedures and the certification needed to be compliant with UAS regulations.”

Meanwhile, the Government plans to introduce new measures to ensure that the uptake of drones is matched by strong safeguards to protect the public.

Measures that have been put out for consultation with industry include: mandatory registration of new drones; tougher penalties for illegal flying near no-fly zones and new signs for no-fly zones at sensitive sites such as airports and prisons; and making drones electronically identifiable, so that the owner’s details can be passed to police if they are spotted breaking the law.

The consultation will also consider whether a new criminal offence for the misuse of drones is needed. The deadline for firms to take part in the consultation process is 15 March.

To take part, visit the Web site (www.smartsurvey.co.uk) or send an e-mail ().