Confined Space Drone Survey Services | Safe, Accurate Internal Inspections
A Complete Guide to Confined Space Drone Surveys Using the Elios 3
At DJM Aerial Solutions, we specialise in delivering professional confined space drone surveys using advanced UAV platforms such as the Elios 3. These drones are engineered specifically for internal, GPS-denied environments like tanks, culverts, boilers, vessels, stacks, and ducts—where traditional entry is risky, expensive, or impossible.
Our confined space drone surveys help industrial clients across the UK eliminate the need for scaffolding, confined space entry, and shutdowns—while providing clear, actionable data on internal conditions.
What Is a Confined Space Drone Survey?
A confined space drone survey involves the use of a collision-tolerant drone to inspect, scan, or survey the internal features of enclosed or hazardous spaces.
Using the Elios 3, which features a protective cage, 4K camera, 10K lumen lighting, and LiDAR sensor, we capture high-resolution imagery, thermal data, and 3D point clouds from environments that are otherwise inaccessible without putting personnel at risk.
Where Confined Space Drone Surveys Are Used
Confined space surveys are ideal for environments such as:
Storage tanks and silos
Heat exchangers and boilers
Waste gas flue stacks and scrubbers
Feed hoppers and ducts
Sewer systems and culverts
Underground chambers and pipelines
Reactors and pressure vessels
Furnaces and energy from waste plants
These are areas where human access is either highly restricted, extremely dangerous, or requires costly scaffolding and access solutions. Our drones fly directly into these spaces—remotely, safely, and efficiently.
Benefits of Confined Space Drone Surveys
No human entry required in hazardous areas
No scaffolding or rope access costs
Minimal downtime for inspection
High-resolution visuals and real-time video
3D mapping and point cloud generation with LiDAR
Rapid turnaround on inspection reports
Fully CAA-certified and insured operations
Deliverables
Each confined space drone survey typically includes:
4K video and HD stills
Visual defect identification
LiDAR point clouds and 3D models
Annotated reports and condition assessments
Spatial outputs for CAD, BIM, or GIS integration
Optional thermal imagery (depending on environment)
Our Equipment: Elios 3
We use the Elios 3, the most advanced confined space inspection drone available, featuring:
Collision-tolerant spherical cage for close-range flying
4K visual camera and thermal sensor
Powerful 10,000 lumen onboard lighting
Real-time FPV control and pilot feedback
Inertial navigation for GPS-denied spaces
LiDAR sensor for accurate spatial mapping
This drone is purpose-built for asset integrity inspection, fault finding, and post-maintenance validation—especially where conditions are unknown or access is extremely limited.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drone Surveys
It’s a remote visual and spatial inspection of internal environments using a drone designed for enclosed, GPS-denied areas.
Tanks, silos, boilers, vessels, stacks, culverts, ducts, hoppers, and any space too hazardous or inaccessible for manned entry.
Yes. No personnel enter the space. All flights are conducted from a safe location outside the confined area.
We use the Elios 3, the leading drone for internal industrial inspections, with visual, thermal, and LiDAR capabilities.
Very accurate. Visual data is captured in 4K resolution and LiDAR data produces centimetre-level 3D spatial models.
Yes. The Elios 3 has 10K lumen onboard lighting, allowing full visibility in pitch-black environments.
Most confined space surveys are completed in a single shift. Larger or more complex environments may take longer.
In most cases, yes. Surveys are typically conducted during scheduled downtime for safety and visibility.
No. Flights are only conducted in gas-free, safe-to-enter conditions as verified by the client prior to entry. As with any confined space all risks are to be mitigated prior to entry.
Yes. The live feed is transmitted back to the operator, and clients can observe inspections as they happen.
Energy, utilities, waste, manufacturing, chemical processing, construction, and heavy industry.
Contact us with asset details, access requirements, and site location. We’ll handle the rest.
Visual media, condition commentary, defect tagging, LiDAR maps, and optional 3D models or point clouds.
In most cases, within 24–72 hours, depending on the complexity and data volume.
Yes. We offer rapid mobilisation for urgent situations or unplanned shutdowns.
Absolutely. Most clients save tens to hundreds of thousands of pounds by avoiding scaffold builds.
Yes. We can export files in compatible formats for CAD, GIS, BIM, or CMMS systems.
Yes. We are based in the North East and operate nationwide.
Yes, when conducted by CAA-certified, insured operators like DJM Aerial Solutions.
Because we combine technical knowledge, engineering experience, and the best technology in the industry.
Why Choose DJM Aerial Solutions for Your Drone Survey?
We’re not just drone pilots—we’re problem solvers with a deep understanding of engineering, construction, and asset management. Our team delivers survey-grade data with the efficiency and professionalism your project demands.
Our Credentials:
CAA-approved commercial drone operator
Decade of experience in inspection and aerial survey
Access to thermal, LiDAR, and photogrammetry platforms
Full reporting and post-processing support
Fast mobilisation across the UK
Book a Drone Survey Today
If you’re planning a project, monitoring a site, or managing a complex asset portfolio, DJM Aerial Solutions delivers the drone survey data you need—accurately, safely, and without delay.