Top Thermal Temperature Scanners – Fever Detection Camera

 

Thermal temperature scanners’ market share is likely to grow at a substantial rate of 4.8% (CAGR) at least for the next seven years — temperature readers in particular, as businesses, hospitals, schools, and other public places use them as an effective means to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Infrared readers and thermal cameras have received a lot of attention lately as they offer a practical solution for mass screening amid the COVID-19 crisis to minimize the risk of coronavirus spreading in public places. Authorities in many countries are endorsing the use of these devices residentially and commercially. Measuring temperature using readers is soon likely to become a standard procedure in most public places.

Staying at home is not a long-term solution. People are now drifting back to work a couple of days a week by choice. Health professionals are working hard to create a safer environment for everyone to socialize and return to their regular lives. Thermal temperature scanners would, of course, have a big role to play in this.  

What are thermal temperature scanners? 

Thermal temperature scanners or infrared readers are for taking the surface temperature of the body. They measure your temperature without physical contact and do not require an operator. Deploying these scanners along with the existing systems e.g. security doors is also possible. These devices are becoming increasingly popular as they effectively stop the spread of the virus from person to person. 

Since we all know that elevated body temperature is one of several criteria in diagnosing coronavirus, these scanners enable us to conduct temperature checks on a large-scale successfully to separate potentially contagious individuals from the masses. 

Manufacturers are using artificial intelligence to make thermal temperature scanners faster, more efficient, and accurate. These devices detect the infrared energy emitting from people’s skin and construct a heat map to take the temperature. People with a fever are singled out for further examination. Everyone can use these self-service infrared readers to take temperature measurements from a safe distance. 

Thermal cameras can detect faces and exclude external heat sources like coffee or cigarettes from the results for more accuracy. Some of these cameras can also save images for tracking the unwell. While scanning, subject to your configuration, if the device detects someone with a slightly elevated temperature, it can notify the management to send a staff member for review by either ringing like an alarm clock or alerting employees on their cell phones or their computer screens.

How many types of thermal temperature scanners are there?

Several types of fixed thermal scanners are available, such as cameras with high, medium, or low traffic density, and temperature measurement stands. You can control all of these devices with monitors, and they can generate audible or visual warnings. Using high-density cameras is appropriate for locations where they need to take the temperature of hundreds of people without interruption. Whereas, cameras with medium and low traffic density are often very portable and suitable for quiet places such as small businesses: internet cafes, hair salons, etc. Infrared readers/temperature measurement stands are the simplest to install. Plug them in, and they are ready to use, in most cases. If you want, you can put these units anywhere as long as they are not outdoors. Thermal cameras use facial recognition technology, while infrared readers use sensors that can detect body temperature from the wrist or forehead.

Benefits of using thermal scanners during the pandemic 

Safe fever screening option

The main benefit of using a thermal temperature scanner is that it enables you to check the body temperature without being close to the person. In places like hospitals that are open 24/7 and where the shortage of medical staff is a growing problem, these scanners make doctors and nurses feel safer, and so, they are more willing to be there. 

If there is a thermal temperature scanner installed at the entrance of busy public places, the management at these places can easily guarantee that everyone on their premises is non-contagious. The risk of the infection spreading, therefore, decreases. It would be highly impractical and unsafe if they took the temperature of every person entering their premises orally or with an infrared thermometer gun. Getting accurate readings from handheld thermometer guns is also tricky because operators often make mistakes.

Thermal temperature scanners have a contactless scanning system to check the temperature, making them much more convenient and safer since nobody has to be near potentially contagious people and risk spreading the virus. This is why the world’s leading companies like Amazon and Intel Corp. are using these infrared powered devices to make their offices and warehouses safer.

Minimizing risk

Some people might argue that thermal scanners aren’t sensitive enough to tell if someone has coronavirus, but regardless, these devices are quite useful because they can help separate people with elevated body temperatures from the masses. So if someone is likely to be contagious, these cameras and readers can single them out for further examination.

Combating medical supply shortages

Severe shortages in medical care are widespread in pandemic situations, e.g., the shortage of gloves, gowns and surgical apparel, and ventilators in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thermal temperature scanners are of great help in overcoming these shortages by preventing an increase in COVID-19 cases.

Fast, accurate, cost-effective, and convenient

Operators can even remotely monitor the device from another room. Thermal scanners can also measure surface temperature faster than other methods without physical contact. And contrary to a common misconception, these devices are significantly useful for measuring temperatures with precision and accuracy in the safest, most effective, and most affordable way possible.

Thermal temperature scanners can save you a lot of time and hassle as they are faster than other devices and don’t require a trained technician to operate. In crowded places, these devices are a game-changer as the process of measuring temperature and then providing further instructions to people with an elevated temperature can be completed in seconds.

The right way to use thermal temperature scanners 

Installing thermal scanners properly according to the manual provided and strictly adhering to the measurement system described by the manufacturer is crucial. For higher accuracy and best results, controlling the temperature of the device surrounding space is necessary, especially for thermal cameras. Eliminating interference from external factors, such as sunlight or mirror reflections, can also help get more accurate readings. 

Some standard rules for using these devices include taking only one person’s temperature at a time, maintaining proper distance from the scanner, and not wearing accessories that can interfere with results. Placing a black object in the background within the camera’s field of view is mandatory for temperature measurement with some thermal cameras. In contrast, infrared readers are easier and do not require such a process. So when you use such cameras, make sure to capture both the person and the black object in one image. And, as with all devices with contactless fever screening, if the temperature is higher than the allowable limit, then performing additional tests is recommended.

Reassessing people with an elevated temperature with a different device/thermometer to confirm a fever is always better. Setting a low cut-off temperature can help achieve fewer false negatives. It’s also better to have an emergency plan in high-risk areas like hospitals and nursing homes, so if something does not go as planned during the tests, other contingency options are available. Remember, fever isn’t always a sign of coronavirus. An infected person might not have a fever at all. Some people might be on antipyretic drugs that can also cause the body temperature to drop. Safety protocols should be, therefore, followed at all times.

Some possible limitations 

• Thermal temperature scanners are great to use at busy places, but they cannot scan more than one person at a time. 

• Unlike traditional thermometers that take temperature orally, thermal scanners check the surface temperature, which is usually lower in comparison, and because of the variance in the composition of subcutaneous fat, it can vary from person to person. Also, the maximum cut-off temperature for determining fever varies for each instrument. Adjustments in their configuration are, therefore, necessary for accuracy in results.

• The environment and location can also affect the effectiveness of contactless temperature measurement. Installing thermal scanners outdoors is not recommended, and doing so may result in false results, regardless of if it is a thermal camera or an infrared reader. 

• Controlling external factors, e.g., keeping a stable room temperature, as recommended by the manufacturer, is necessary to achieve accurate results. Failure to set up the scanners according to the manufacturer’s guidelines can cause malfunctions. Strict adherence to the setup manual is critical. 

• It is necessary for people measuring their temperature to follow the scanning instructions for accuracy in results. For example, wearing a hat or glasses can disrupt the scanning process and lead to incorrect temperature measurements. Management needs to ensure these instructions are available for everyone. They can display them on the monitor screen or a banner.

• Training the person managing scanners like thermal cameras for properly evaluating people’s temperature and resolving possible problems is crucial. 

Are thermal scanners dangerous or cause health issues?

Although some are concerned about the radiation that emits from the thermal scanners, these devices are entirely safe to use. Compared to a thermal temperature scanner, your mobile phone emits more radiation. Possible health concerns associated with the use of these devices are unfounded. Thermal cameras and infrared readers are not new and untested; in fact, they are FDA approved. They measure surface temperature by reflecting rays off your skin that returns to the camera/reader for evaluation.

“Harmful radiation caused by pointing an infrared scanner at the forehead affects the pineal gland” is another popular misconception that has no scientific basis. Doctors have confirmed that the pineal gland is far from the skin surface and is not affected in any way.

Some manufacturers equip their thermal scanners with lasers for pointing at the forehead to ensure the device takes temperature from the right point on the forehead. The laser has nothing to do with temperature measurement and is only used to point the device in the right direction. If you use such devices, do not look directly at the lasers to protect your eyes.  

Deploying these devices in the workplace or public places should not lead people to be less vigilant. Even in the presence of these devices, it is still important to socially distance yourself and wear a mask to protect yourself and others around you.

Why should you invest in one?

Businesses can no longer remain closed. After massive losses incurred over the past year, finding a way out of this situation is the top priority for everyone. Any product that offers a solution to this global problem will be widely utilized. Thermal temperature scanners and infrared readers enjoy increasing popularity due to their simplicity and convenience, among other things. 

With these devices, offices, restaurants, airports, playgrounds, stadiums, and other public places can be reopened more safely and operated as usual without increasing the risk of the COVID-19 spreading. No wonder why, Amazon, Tyson Foods, Intel Corp., General Motors Company, and other giants have already started using thermal temperature scanners at their facilities.

Businesses may get asked by the authorities, under current circumstances, to provide a full report on the security measures taken to reduce the risk of the virus spreading in their workplace. Infrared readers can help create daily records of temperature readings to prove that only non-infectious employees are allowed to enter the premises.

Investing in these technologies is only logical as these devices are better than anything else out there on the market, or they would not have been so successful. These infrared-powered machines can identify potentially infectious people without putting anyone at risk and help reduce operating costs. These are even more hygienic and do not have to be cleaned after each use. 

The cost of thermal cameras ranges from $5000 to $20,000 as there are various types available with distinct features. Infrared readers cost fairly low in comparison. 

Businesses cannot rely solely on self-reports of fever because some may not report to the administration for fear of adverse consequences, such as quarantine, travel delays, etc., plus, unawareness of fever is also a potential problem.

Based on these facts, it would be fair to say that thermal temperature scanners look very promising and make a great investment for businesses. Companies that are not operating at the moment can reopen once they install these scanners in their facilities. These devices will only prove to be beneficial for everyone. There is no downside to them.

Most advanced and easy-to-use thermal temperature scanners

As there are so many thermal scanners available on the market, it can be challenging to choose a device that can best fulfill your needs. The following are some of the best infrared-readers that are not only effective but also affordable.

Zortemp 1000 – Body Temperature Infrared Scanner Kiosk  

It is a fast and accurate infrared temperature scanner that is better constructed and easier to use than any other scanner on the market as it quickly assesses body temperature with an accuracy of up to 0.5 Fahrenheit. It offers a practical solution for reducing privacy concerns by not requiring facial recognition for temperature measurement. It can measure temperature from the wrist or forehead using the two sensors, one on the top and one on the side (wheelchair friendly). It only takes a second to detect a fever with this reader. It can also instantly send an email notification to the administrator when it detects someone with an elevated temperature. It is also possible to open security doors or trigger alarms in response to the results. For extra safety, it comes with a hand sanitizer dispenser that companies need to provide at the entrance anyway. You also get a 12-month warranty. 

Zortemp 600 – Infrared Body Temperature detector 

A small device that you can mount on walls and desks. It checks the body temperature from the forehead or wrist. Adjusting alarm settings, e.g., setting an allowable temperature limit to enter the premises, is simple. You can also turn off the alarm sound for privacy reasons. After each use, to ensure only the person taking measurement could see the test results, the device resets itself. It’s easy to install and ready to use right out of the box. You can also choose between Celsius or Fahrenheit as the unit of measurement.

Zorpro 6T – Metal Detector & Body Temperature Scanner 

This one is very similar to the walkthrough scanners found in shopping malls and airports. It can quickly detect body temperature with an accuracy of up to 0.5 degrees and can detect metals. Its usage is, however, slightly different from other scanners mentioned above. For this scanner, you first need to check the forehead temperature, and then you pass through the scanner for further evaluation. It’s a great device that is relatively easy to install in places like courthouses, schools, events, etc. You also get a 12-month warranty.

Thermal cameras vs infrared readers

Infrared readers are better than traditional thermal cameras because, unlike thermal cameras, these devices are not affected by external factors such as makeup, hats, sunlight, etc. Also, with a thermal camera, if it is not properly focused, the results can be highly inaccurate.  Infrared readers are therefore replacing thermal cameras as they are much more accurate and affordable. 

Prices of thermal cameras have gone up due to the unforeseen rise in demand, creating a supply deficit. Plus, buying a separate computer interface to control thermal cameras is an added expense that you do not have to put up with infrared readers.

Ambient temperature causes errors in all types of thermal scanners. The ability of infrared readers to pick up the temperature from the inner side of the wrist or forearm makes it possible to get accurate reading regardless of the weather or room temperature. Therefore, these devices are also more suitable for the current situation because people do not need to take off the mask, as was the case with thermal cameras. Taking the temperature from the wrist, where the arteries are close to the skin, also allows for greater accuracy in the results. 

Thermal cameras have raised many privacy concerns, e.g., people fear they would be photographed without consent or become a subject to constant monitoring, and others might use these cameras to inspect their private properties. Concerns about thermal cameras being used for surveillance and social control even after the pandemic is over is another reason why people are preferential to infrared readers as they do not utilize face recognition technology. Since the main and only use of infrared readers is to measure surface temperature, people find them safer.  

Unlike thermal imaging cameras, infrared readers do not require you to have a black object in the background to measure the surface temperature accurately. These devices simplify use and eliminate the possibility of inaccuracies from the results. 

Conclusion

2020 was a devastating year for most businesses and people. Since the outbreak began, leading technology and medical companies are trying hard to find a way to deal with the pandemic. The development of vaccinations is ongoing. But no one knows how long it would take for these vaccinations to reach everyone. 

Public-health experts believe temperature-scanning systems are a great way to control the spread of the virus. You can even improve the accuracy of the results by a simplified system configuration. These devices are useful, which explains why they are so widely used to fight epidemics everywhere. Their initial use was in airports during the outbreaks of previous epidemics. 

The COVID-19 outbreak poses challenges for businesses of all sizes. Waiting for things to get better is not an option. Vaccinations could be widely available in the years to come, but thermal temperature scanners can make public places safer right away without the wait. Offering a unique advantage over traditional thermometers, these non-contact scanners are fast, accurate, and reliable devices that require little maintenance and last longer because their non-contact nature reduces wear and tear. 

There’s action you can take now to make your surroundings as safe as possible!