Maison Lewis offers an inclusive drone operation service. Capturing photography and videography for our clients and projects.

We are licensed pilots under the UK Civil Aviation Authority regulations within the A2 Open Category.

Drone Safety Policy

1. Introduction This Safety Management System (SMS) outlines the safety procedures, risk management practices, and operational protocols for drone operations conducted by Maison Lewis ltd. This document ensures compliance with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, including the A2 Open Category License, and aligns with best practices in unmanned aerial system (UAS) safety management.

2. Objectives

       i.         To ensure safe and compliant drone operations.

     ii.         To identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks.

    iii.         To promote a culture of safety awareness and continuous improvement.

    iv.         To comply with UK aviation regulations and insurance requirements.

3. Responsibilities

       i.         The Drone Pilot is responsible for ensuring safe operations, conducting risk assessments, and complying with all regulatory requirements.

     ii.         The Safety Officer (if applicable) oversees compliance and reviews safety incidents.

    iii.         All personnel involved in operations must adhere to the SMS and report any safety concerns.

4. Risk Management 

4.1 Risk Assessment Process

       i.         Conduct a pre-flight risk assessment before each operation.

     ii.         Identify hazards (e.g., weather conditions, obstacles, people, airspace restrictions).

    iii.         Assess risks and apply mitigation strategies (e.g., adjusting flight paths, increasing separation distances).

    iv.         Use a standardized risk assessment checklist.

4.2 Incident Reporting & Investigation

       i.         Report all safety incidents, near-misses, or equipment failures.

     ii.         Maintain an incident log and analyse trends to improve safety practices.

    iii.         Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.

5. Operational Safety Procedures 

5.1 Pre-Flight Procedures

       i.         Check drone registration and ensure operational compliance.

     ii.         Conduct equipment inspections (batteries, propellers, sensors, etc.).

    iii.         Review airspace restrictions using appropriate tools (e.g., Drone Safety Map, NOTAMs).

    iv.         Verify weather conditions and assess site-specific risks.

      v.         Establish emergency procedures and communication protocols.

5.2 Flight Operations

       i.         Maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times.

     ii.         Operate within the A2 Open Category guidelines (maintaining minimum separation distances from uninvolved persons and structures).

    iii.         Follow standard flight procedures, including controlled take-off and landing.

    iv.         Monitor battery levels and environmental conditions throughout the flight.

5.3 Post-Flight Procedures

       i.         Perform post-flight equipment checks and log any maintenance issues.

     ii.         Record flight details, including location, duration, and anomalies.

    iii.         Securely store equipment and ensure data integrity.

6. Emergency Procedures 

6.1 Loss of Control

       i.         Attempt manual recovery.

     ii.         Activate Return-to-Home (RTH) function.

    iii.         If recovery fails, follow emergency landing protocols.

6.2 Collision or Damage

       i.         Secure the area and assess damage.

     ii.         Report incidents to relevant authorities if required.

    iii.         Document findings and update risk assessments.

6.3 Injury to Persons or Property Damage

       i.         Provide immediate assistance if needed.

     ii.         Contact emergency services if required.

    iii.         Notify the insurance provider and document the incident.

7. Safety Training & Continuous Improvement

       i.         Regularly review and update SMS based on operational experiences and regulatory changes.

     ii.         Participate in industry training and safety workshops.

    iii.         Encourage safety reporting and feedback to enhance best practices.

8. Compliance & Documentation

       i.         Maintain up-to-date CAA registration and A2 Open Category certification.

     ii.         Ensure public liability insurance remains valid.

    iii.         Keep records of risk assessments, flight logs, maintenance checks, and incident reports.