Drone Thermal Imaging Category 1

Based on the accredited Thermal Imaging Category 1 course, the Drone Thermal Imaging Category 1 includes an additional day of training on drone operation for thermal inspections. The course teaches the fundamentals of thermal imaging, as well as how to conduct a thermal survey using a drone. Delegates will learn how to capture and analyse thermal images, as well as create basic reports.

There are many commercial applications for the use of thermal cameras on drones. These include electrical inspections, thermal building surveys, and search and rescue. As such, drone operators using thermal imaging can offer extra services to clients, which provides them with an advantage over competitors.

Course Content

Furthermore, the course uses case studies to demonstrate the practical applications of different survey techniques. Delegates will also gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of thermal technology.

The course teaches the basics of thermal camera set-up and calibration. Delegates will study a range of cameras, including drone mounted, tripod mounted, and hand-held units. They’ll also look at current thermal imaging drone cameras and aerial platforms and match them to suitable commercial applications.

In addition, delegates will learn how to use software to analyse and interpret thermal data. Drawing the correct conclusions from thermal data is important, so this forms a large part of post-production workflow. The course will also demonstrate how to present thermal data to produce a substantial report for clients.

The Drone Thermal Imaging Category 1 course provides drone pilots with the knowledge and skills to use thermal imaging cameras as a professional tool. As a result, delegates will be able to expand their range of services to include thermal imaging surveys.

Students will need to pass a multiple-choice iRed® exam, taking place on the final day of the course. They will also need to submit five drone thermal imaging reports for assessment. Delegates are able to submit these reports up to a year after course completion.

Additional Accreditation (ISO 18436)

This course is eligible for optional accreditation by the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) to the BS EN ISO 18436 standard. This accreditation has an additional cost of £360 (incl VAT).

To gain this accreditation, delegates will need to sit a BINDT assessed thermal imaging exam – this is completed within the accreditation fee and is completed at the end of your course.

Delegates will also need to submit a ‘logbook of experience’ to BINDT for approval. Your logbook will contain proof that you have undertaken 16 hours a month of thermal imaging experience (totalling 192 hours for the year). ‘Thermal imaging experience’ includes time surveying, creating reports, or self-study.

Accreditation offers independent assurance that you’re both qualified and competent in operating a thermal imaging camera. This also provides you with an edge on your competitors. However, the nature of the work required to achieve this additional accreditation means that it can take longer to complete, especially if you are new to industry. On successful completion of a course, we provide delegates with an industry recognised iRed® Qualification, which enables delegates to advertise their skills and build the experience needed for their logbook.

Who Should Attend

The Drone Thermal Imaging Category 1 course is ideal for commercial drone pilots looking to inspect buildings, solar panels and power-lines using thermal imaging cameras. The course enables pilots to expand their range of current services to include aerial thermal imaging surveys.