Updated 9th June 2020: to include CAP1789 rules on remote ID for all aircraft post 1 January 2022 and night time flying

It’s important to understand the difference between a drone operator and remote pilot so you know your responsibilities.

Operator - means any legal or natural person operating or intending to operate one or more UAS. The CAA consider this to be the person who has the management of the small unmanned aircraft
Remote Pilot - an individual who operates the flight controls by manual use of remote controls or if flying automatically, monitors its course and is able to intervene and change its course by operating its flight controls;

The Operator and Remote Pilot would be the same person if you’re a one-man-band, but bigger organizations may have an operator who doesn’t actually fly the drone. You may also be the parent of a child with a drone, in which case the parent would be the operator and the child the remote pilot.

Operator Responsibilities

Ensuring operational procedures are in place (commensurate with the risk) and make efficient use of radio spectrum
Ensure anyone involved in the drone flight is competent to do their task
Ensure you provide the geographical zone information
Ensure you update the geo-awareness system
If using a drone that is compliant with the delegated regulation then ensure that the drone is accompanied with a Decleration of Confirmity, it is CE Marked and Class ID Label affixed to the drone
If flying in circumstances of A2 or A3 then ensure all persons are informed of the risk and agreed to particpate.
From 1 January 2022 operators must ensure that each individual unmanned aircraft is installed with an active and up to date remote identification system

Remote Pilot Responsibilities

Ensure you are competent (unless Class C0; Or Privately built, <250g and max speed of 19 m/s (36 kts / 42 mph); OR Placed on Market < 1 July 2022 and <250g).
Observe environment for obstacles and uninvolved persons
Obtain latest geographical zone information
Ensure drone is safe and remote ID working (if equipped)
Ensure mass does not exceed limits (manufacturer, open category or class)
Ensure fit and not under influence
Maintain VLOS and visual scan
Comply with geographical zones
Operate i.a.w user manual and operator procedures
Avoid areas where an emergency response effort is ongoing unless permitted
Observer may assist pilot in VLOS if situated alongside
From 1 July 2022 RP must ensure they activate a green flashing light when operating at night.

Small Print: These posts are a summary only, include my personal interpretation and is not intended to be a replacement for reading the actual rules.