HSE approves trial use of drones

The HSE has approved a trial allowing drones to spray chemical herbicides to treat plants and weeds growing on railway bridges, tunnel portals and viaducts. It says emerging evidence suggests using drones could have a positive impact on safety and the environment. It is normally carried out by workers manually, often involving work at height, overnight and on a tight time schedule when trains are not operating. Using drones could reduce the risk of injury and make application more efficient and effective, it says.