Thermal Imaging Camera
07.09.2020
By: Safran Staff
Workplace safety and employee screening have become renewed priorities as a result of Coronavirus in 2020. This article provides a brief overview of Thermal Imaging Cameras, their use in workplaces and screening, and legal ramifications for use.
Thermal Imaging Cameras detect an individual’s heat (radiation) with sensors that convert readings into a color map of different values for assessing temperatures. These results allow the user to view the infrared spectrum of light that is now visible to the human eye.
There are two types of thermographic cameras; versions with cooled infrared image detectors and those with uncooled detectors. The cooling is necessary for the operation of the semiconductor materials used in the camera. The cooling versions are more expensive and difficult to use yet produce higher quality and accurate imaging. All thermal imaging cameras require a “black body” device that must be maintained a constant temperature and provides a benchmark for calibration.
A major advantage with higher quality thermal imaging cameras is the ability to distinguish temperature differences between distanced objects and individuals, along with changes in room environments. This is especially helpful on dynamic job sites with large equipment (HVAC units, vehicles, scaffolding, etc.) and outdoors. Lower quality cameras have issues reading temperatures through glass or around highly reflective surfaces. Most cameras available to consumers have issues reading varying distances and multiple people at the same time.
It’s important to note that these cameras are rarely approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not considered medical equipment. As best practice, its recommended to verify abnormal temperatures with a second reading from a separate device. User error is a common factor in recording accurate temperatures.
Notable camera features include the ability to save images and records, along with an alarm system to notify the user when the reading exceeds normal body temperature. Yet a potential legal issue arises as this data may be considered a “medical device” recording private medical information. If so, these records must be managed in compliance with specific HIPA guidelines.
“Thermal Imaging Systems (Infrared Thermographic Systems / Thermal Imaging Cameras)”, https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/general-hospital-devices-and-supplies/thermal-imaging-systems-infrared-thermographic-systems-thermal-imaging-cameras
“US Defense Department Uses Thermal Imaging to Detect COVID-19”
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