Reporting Unfit for Duty

No personnel may perform a task related to the safety or navigation of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) when unfit to undertake that activity. Being unfit for duty means the individual’s ability to perform the duty safely is impaired or likely to be impaired due to several factors, including:

  1. Health and Well-being:

    • Being unwell or excessively tired: Fatigue or illness can severely impact one’s ability to operate an RPA safely.
    • Having an illness or injury that could impair concentration, coordination, or decision-making.

  2. Psychoactive Substances:

    • Consumption, use, or absorption of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, which can alter cognitive function, reaction time, and judgment.

  3. Medication:

    • Use of prescription or over-the-counter medications (such as codeine, antihistamines, or other drugs) that may cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed reaction times.

Personnel must immediately report any potential or actual unfitness for duty to the Chief Remote Pilot (CRP). The CRP will take the necessary action to remedy the situation and ensure that safety is not compromised.

Alcohol Consumption

  • Remote Pilots and other personnel involved in RPA operations must not perform their duties while under the influence of alcohol.
  • Alcohol must not be consumed within 8 hours prior to commencing RPA operations or at any time during an operation. This ensures that all personnel are in an optimal state to perform their duties safely.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

As a ‘safety-sensitive aviation activity’, individuals working under the authority of this Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) may be subjected to random drug and alcohol testing. This means that:

  • Personnel must adhere to drug and alcohol testing requirements mandated by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) or any contracting organization.
  • Compliance with these regulations is essential to maintain the highest safety standards in RPA operations.

By following these guidelines, organizations ensure that all personnel involved in RPA operations are fit for duty, reducing the risk of accidents and maintaining safe and effective drone operations.

(REDCAT Safety)