Does OSHA Have Specific Laws or Regulations for Drone Window or Building Cleaning?

As drone cleaning continues to grow across the U.S., one of the most common questions we hear is: “Does OSHA have specific rules for drone window or building cleaning?” The short answer is not yet — but related OSHA regulations still apply.

No Drone-Specific OSHA Standard (Yet)

Right now, OSHA does not have a regulation written specifically for drones or drone-based cleaning systems. Drones are still relatively new in the commercial cleaning and maintenance world, and federal safety rules haven’t fully caught up.

However, OSHA does enforce existing safety standards that still apply to drone operations — especially when used on or near buildings, workers, or the public.

What OSHA Standards Still Apply

Even without a drone-specific rule, OSHA expects employers to maintain a safe workplace under the General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act). That means you’re responsible for protecting employees from known hazards — including those related to drones.

Here are a few key OSHA areas that typically apply to drone cleaning:

• Fall protection: If anyone is working on rooftops, near edges, or setting up equipment near height hazards.

• Electrical safety: When operating near power lines or conductive surfaces.

• Hazard communication: For cleaning chemicals, detergents, and any water-fed or pressurized systems.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, or high-visibility vests as required by site conditions.

• Training and competency: Workers must be trained to recognize hazards, understand airspace restrictions, and operate drones safely.

FAA Regulations Still Apply Too

While OSHA governs workplace safety, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates the aircraft itself. Commercial drone cleaning operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, follow airspace and altitude rules, and maintain visual line of sight.

In other words — OSHA handles safety on the ground, and the FAA handles safety in the air.

What This Means for Drone Cleaning Companies

If you’re operating drones for window or façade cleaning, treat every project like a construction site. You’ll need:

• A job hazard analysis (JHA) before each project.

• Safety zones to keep pedestrians clear.

• Chemical safety data sheets (SDS) available on-site.

• FAA compliance for all flight operations.

Staying compliant with both OSHA’s general safety expectations and the FAA’s flight rules is the best way to protect your team, your clients, and your business.

The Bottom Line

OSHA hasn’t yet published drone cleaning–specific regulations, but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. You’re still required to maintain a safe workplace, document your training, and follow general OSHA and FAA standards. As drone technology becomes more integrated into the cleaning industry, we expect OSHA to develop clearer guidance — and Drone Wash will be at the forefront helping shape and interpret those standards.