Unmanned aircraft systems, more commonly known as drones, have quite literally taken off by performing many new and inventive commercial applications. Delivering packages, recording terrain, reporting news, documenting wildlife and even providing internet access are just a few of the functions drones can offer. The list is sure to grow longer and more diverse as drone usage and technology evolves. Similarly, lowering costs and increasing options can make drones a common business tool among all types of industry, including retail, security, utility, environmental, education and government.

The purpose of this policy, written by Scott Matteson for TechRepublic Premium, is to provide guidelines for drone usage that establish prerequisites, operational guidelines and standards for security and safety intended to protect the business, its employees and the public.

• Featured text from the policy:

  BUSINESS PURPOSES

  Drones shall be utilized by the company for business purposes only, except in the instance of personal or business-owned drones conducting demonstrations or training exercises on company property that have been approved for use by the HR and IT departments (or groups associated with facilities, transportation and outdoor operations).

  Business purposes are defined as any commercial use in connection with a business, including the following:

  Selling photos or videos taken from a UAS.

  Using UAS to provide contract services, such as industrial equipment or factory inspection.

  Using UAS to provide professional services, such as security or telecommunications.

Enhance your drone usage with our seven-page policy document. This is available for download at just $19. Alternatively, enjoy complimentary access with a Premium annual subscription. Click here to find out more.

TIME SAVED: Crafting this content required 14 hours of dedicated writing, editing, research and design.