Thermal drone inspection checklist

Specify the asset, suspected condition and required evidence. Thermal imagery shows temperature patterns; it does not automatically identify a root cause. Decide what optical photographs, operating information or further tests are needed alongside it.

Environmental conditions, surface properties, reflections and sensor setup can influence interpretation. Establish a suitable capture window with the inspection specialist. Record relevant operating conditions and avoid comparing surveys taken under substantially different conditions without explanation.

Retain the agreed thermal source files, corresponding optical evidence and asset identifiers. A colored screenshot is not necessarily a substitute for radiometric data. Confirm what the camera records and what the receiving software can read.

Agree categories, priorities, locations and follow-up responsibilities. The register should distinguish observed evidence from an engineering diagnosis. Verify repairs using an appropriate inspection method rather than marking an issue resolved solely because a new image looks different.