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UAV-Based Confined Space Inspection in an Industrial Environment

Project Context
Confined space inspections represent one of the most challenging, hazardous, and operationally disruptive activities within industrial facilities. Traditionally, inspecting enclosed or restricted-access structures requires human entry supported by scaffolding, rope access systems, safety harnesses, gas detection, ventilation measures, and prolonged shutdown periods.

In this project, the scope involved the internal inspection of a large enclosed industrial structure where conventional inspection methods would have introduced significant safety risks, extended downtime, and complex logistics. To mitigate these challenges, the client evaluated the use of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology as a safer and more efficient alternative.

NineTenths was engaged to design, plan, and execute a UAV-based confined space inspection capable of delivering accurate, high-quality visual data while completely eliminating the need for human entry into the structure.

Indoor Drone

Key Challenges
The confined inspection environment imposed multiple operational and technical constraints, including:

  • Absence of GNSS signals inside the structure, requiring non-GNSS navigation capability
  • Limited ambient lighting and tight internal geometry
  • Extensive metallic surfaces, increasing the risk of signal interference and collision
  • Strict requirement for high-resolution visual data suitable for engineering assessment
  • Zero tolerance for safety incidents, equipment damage, or unplanned contact with internal assets

Additionally, the inspection had to be completed within a narrow maintenance window, leaving no margin for trial-and-error or repeated attempts.

Solution Approach
NineTenths selected a purpose-built confined-space UAV platform specifically designed for enclosed and high-risk environments. The platform was equipped with:

  • A stabilized, high-resolution visual camera for detailed inspection imagery
  • Integrated onboard lighting optimized for low-visibility conditions
  • Non-GNSS navigation systems suitable for indoor and confined environments
  • A protective collision cage to safeguard both the UAV and the inspected asset

Prior to deployment, the NineTenths team conducted comprehensive pre-mission planning, including:

  • A detailed confined-space risk assessment aligned with industrial safety standards
  • Evaluation of entry points and internal access limitations
  • Obstacle identification and internal layout assessment
  • Definition of emergency procedures, including loss-of-signal and UAV recovery protocols
  • Dry-run planning to ensure controlled ingress, stable flight paths, and safe egress throughout the operation, both the pilot and safety observer remained outside the confined space, maintaining full situational awareness without physical exposure.

Execution
The UAV was deployed through the designated access opening and flown methodically through the internal volume of the structure. Flight speed, distance, and maneuvering were deliberately conservative to maximize stability, situational control, and image clarity.

Live video transmission enabled the inspection team to:
  • Identify surface corrosion, structural joints, internal fixtures, and potential degradation
  • Adjust camera angles and lighting in real time to focus on priority inspection areas
  • Capture detailed visual records of locations that would be difficult, time-consuming, or unsafe for human inspectors to access the entire inspection was completed without any physical contact between personnel and the confined space interior.

Results and Outcomes
The UAV-based inspection delivered measurable operational and safety benefits, including:

  • Complete elimination of human entry into a confined space
  • Significant reduction in inspection duration compared to traditional methods
  • No requirement for scaffolding, rope access, ventilation systems, or gas monitoring setup
  • High-quality visual datasets enabling detailed post-inspection analysis and documentation
  • Minimal disruption to ongoing facility operations and maintenance schedules based on the inspection data, the client was able to make informed maintenance and asset management decisions without extending downtime or exposing personnel to hazardous conditions.


Key Takeaways
  • UAV-based inspections are highly effective for confined space applications when properly planned and executed
  • Platform selection and risk assessment are critical in non-GNSS and metallic environments
  • Controlled, methodical flight operations produce higher-quality inspection data than aggressive coverage
  • Confined space drone inspections are not only safer, but also operationally more efficient and cost-effective

Conclusion
This project demonstrates how UAV-based inspection solutions can successfully replace traditional confined space entry for a wide range of industrial applications. By combining the right technology, disciplined planning, and experienced execution, NineTenths delivered a safe, efficient, and high-value inspection outcome.
The success of this operation reinforces the role of drones as a proven and reliable tool for high-risk industrial inspection environments — not as an experimental approach, but as an established operational capability supporting modern asset integrity programs.

What is considered a confined space in industrial facilities?
A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed area not designed for continuous occupancy, with limited entry or exit. In industrial settings, this includes tanks, vessels, silos, stacks, ducts, and internal structures where inspection access is restricted and safety risks are elevated.
What are the three defining conditions of a confined space?
A confined space typically has limited means of entry or exit, is not intended for continuous human occupancy, and may present hazards such as restricted airflow, hazardous atmospheres, or physical constraints.
Why are confined space inspections considered high-risk?
Confined space inspections often involve poor ventilation, limited visibility, hazardous gases, and restricted movement, increasing the likelihood of safety incidents and operational complexity during traditional inspection activities.
How can UAVs be used for confined space inspections without GNSS?
Specialized UAV platforms can operate in non-GNSS environments using onboard stabilization, visual navigation, and controlled flight systems, allowing safe and reliable inspection of enclosed industrial spaces.
When is UAV inspection a better alternative to human entry?
UAV-based inspection is the preferred approach when confined space entry introduces unacceptable safety risks, access limitations, or extended downtime, while still requiring accurate visual data for engineering assessment.



📞 Ready to Upgrade Your Confined Space Inspections?
With NineTenths, UAV-based inspection replaces human entry in high-risk industrial environments — delivering safer operations, faster inspections, and reliable visual data where traditional methods fall short.
📩 Contact Us
📞 Or speak with a specialist: 920015910
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