In light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many businesses are seeking tools to not only help slow the spread of the virus, but also to reopen and operate safely. Thermal temperature monitoring, which enables quick detection of elevated temperatures, can help provide a more secure workplace and prevent continued interruption of operation.
HOW IT WORKS
Thermal temperature monitoring systems allow temperature assessment of multiple people from a distance of up to twenty-three feet away. Many people can be screened at once because the assessment is contactless, preventing a potential spread of the virus. Most thermal imaging systems contain a thermal sensor for temperature monitoring as well as a light sensor for visual identification. Together, these sensors detect elevated temperatures through the following steps:
Step 1: The camera captures an accurate temperature reading as individuals walk past it, measuring up to thirty people per second. There is no need for individuals to pause in front of the camera, which makes thermal cameras more efficient than handheld temperature devices.
Step 2: A blackbody device, which measures the individuals’ temperatures, ensures accurate readings by providing a constant reference temperature.
Step 3: Once the readings are complete, a video recording device allows synchronized recording and playback. If a high temperature is detected, the device will send an alarm.
Step 4: When an individual is detected as having an elevated body temperature, they should be taken to a private area for a secondary temporal temperature screening.
Thermal temperature monitoring systems such as these play a fundamental role in restricting COVID-19’s spread while also providing a sense of safety and commitment to your employees.
HOW THERMAL TEMPERATURE MONITORING AFFECTS THE WORKPLACE
In an effort to help employees resume a sense of their normal lives while still feeling secure, many companies have reopened and begun using thermal temperature monitoring. The White House’s Opening Up America Again guidelines, in fact, ask employers to develop and implement strategies to check temperature and other symptoms of COVID-19.
Amazon, for example, reported more than 50 cases of COVID-19 among their U.S. warehouse staff. This news caused many of their workers to leave their jobs out of concern for their own health. In April, Amazon began using thermal cameras at its warehouses to expedite the screening process and provide security for its employees, preventing the company from having to shut down warehouses that are absolutely essential to its operation. Other companies were quick to follow suit, including Tyson Foods, Intel Corp, and IPIC Theaters.
Hotel and resort owners, perhaps one of the most negatively affected industries, are planning to put extensive safety measures in place upon reopening, including thermal temperature monitoring systems. Wynn Resorts CEO Matt Maddox claims that points of entry will be secured with noninvasive thermal cameras. Any employees or guests who have an elevated temperature will be denied entry onto the Resort’s property and receive appropriate medical attention or advice.
Many companies recommend that employers be extremely transparent with their employees about the use of the cameras. Doing so will help the employees understand why the technology is there—to keep them safe.
Need a Thermal Temperature Monitoring System for your Business?
Installing a thermal temperature monitoring system can help get your business back on track during the COVID-19 crisis. As your business begins the re-entry process into a “new normal” stemming from the pandemic, we can provide a solution to help ensure the safety, security, and wellness of your employees by providing you with the best thermal camera system suited for your business. Contact us today to learn more!
