October 21st, 2020 3:44 pm

Thermal Cameras to Fight Corona Virus in the workplace?

What are some practical tips for using thermal cameras to detect COVID-19?

As the nation reopens, businesses have a host of logistical and legal issues to resolve in order to bring their employees back safely in the age of COVID-19. Many are turning to technological solutions, ranging from standard forehead thermometer guns, to more sophisticated, social-distancing and heat-detection cameras, some of which are even paired with facial recognition software that can track and identify individuals who have a fever or who flout the distancing rules. Before implementing such technology in the workplace, however, enterprises must consider the potential legal implications associated with their use.

The Benefits of Thermal Cameras and COVID-19

The main advantage is that the person who handles the thermal imaging system is not required to be physically close to the person being evaluated. In fact, the person who handles the thermal imaging system could be in a different area or room. This eliminates the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) required training for temperature takers.

A thermal imaging system has also shown that it more accurately measures surface skin temperature faster than the typical forehead or oral (mouth) thermometer that requires a close distance or physical contact with the person being evaluated.

Practical Tips for Using Thermal Cameras and COVID-19

If enterprises decide to proceed with thermal cameras at their workplace, there are some practical tips they should follow for the best results.

Identify who needs to have their temperatures checked, why, when and how, including if such screening is required by local or state order.

Disclose the use of these systems with proper signage, policies and/or acknowledgement forms.

Communicate with employees about the need for and reasoning behind the temperature checks.

Obtain consent to the use of these systems from persons being tested. Consent can be express, such as on a signed waiver form, or implied, through unilateral communications such as signs or policies. All should make it clear that access to the facility is conditioned on consent to the temperature check. State and local laws, however, may vary on the method of consent needed.

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This article is from security magazine. They can be found at: https://www.securitymagazine.com