Drones
As a supervisor, you are responsible for ensuring that the health of your staff and students is protected and that accidents are prevented within ETH Zurich. You are obliged to designate safety officers and to inform your staff/students of the essential points on safety and intervention should an event occur.
For an overview of your health and safety responsibilities as a supervisor, download this Download Suva brochure (PDF, 927 KB).
Anyone wishing to fly or operate a drone at ETH must comply with the legal requirements of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA).
Registration:
Drone operators must register with the FOCA (Federal Office of Civil Aviation). After successful registration, a UAS operator number is issued, which must be clearly visible on the drone.
external page FOCA drone registration in dLIS
Pilot training:
A drone certificate is required to fly a drone. This requires training and passing an examination. Persons operating drones weighing less than 250 g are exempt.
Drone classification:
Drones must have a CE marking and a valid classification in accordance with EU drone regulations (open category). Drones without classification may not be flown in the open category.
Special categories and categories requiring approval:
A permit from the FOCA is required for drones in the special category or category subject to licensing.
Insurance:
Proof of insurance with a minimum cover of at least CHF 1 million is mandatory for the operation of a drone.
Contact person for proof of insurance:
VP Finance & Controlling: sheila.elsener@fc.ethz.ch
Obligation to report:
Accidents involving drones must be reported to the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB). Other incidents and special occurrences that impair or may impair flight safety.
Dangerous Goods
Lithium ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods according to transportation law. Find out about the provisions on transport and disposal here.