Thermal Screening FAQs
How much does accuracy matter when using thermal imaging for elevated temperature monitoring?
Accuracy is extremely important with any thermal imager used for temperature screening. We follow the best practice recommendations outlined by ISO 13154-2017 and FDA guidance documents to maximize accuracy and get the most precise results.
Is screening people for elevated temperatures difficult to implement? Do I need to be trained thermographer to temperature screen?
Any system utilized for this application should be either a “plug and play” ready to use system or have the capability of being utilized in a more integrated manner. How these are deployed is at the end user’s discretion, however, it is best to operate under the ISO 13154-2017 / FDA guidance and allow your program and process to grow with the ever-changing landscape of these statutes.
How does a thermal imaging system differ from a thermometer?
A thermal imaging system is a non-contact, non-invasive, passive imaging system that is measuring the thermal energy that is emitted, or given off, by the human body. A thermometer is a contact device that is typically applied to the skin or other body cavity to achieve a core temperature measurement.Thermal imaging systems, through proprietary software, can provide an estimated core temperature, as well as a surface temperature.
Are thermal imaging systems effective for diagnosing COVID-19?
No, elevated body temperature (EBT) screening devices are not diagnostic tools. They are tools deployed for early detection to assist in diagnostics prior to potential contagious effects.
Are thermal imaging systems used for body temperature assessment considered medical devices?
Yes, thermal imaging systems for body temperature assessment are medical devices.
Are infrared thermometers accurate?
ICI’s non-contact thermometers have a margin of error of ± 0.3 °C on skin surface temperature screenings. Infrared thermometers read the surface temperature of a target — not the internal temperature. This means that for fever detection, an infrared thermometer can catch if someone has an elevated skin temperature, though this doesn’t necessarily indicate a fever.
How do I use a non-contact infrared thermometer?
To properly use a non-contact infrared thermometer to scan body temperature, stand 5 – 15 centimeters away from your target. Power on the device and point it at the inside corner of the patient’s eye, holding still. The temperature reading will display within 1 second. Many devices, such as ICI’s HotSpot IR, are battery-powered. You can set an alarm to sound when a temperature reading is abnormally high. ICI’s infrared thermometer powers off automatically and lets you choose between Celsius and Fahrenheit for readings.
Where do you take temperature with an infrared thermometer?
Often, people using a handheld infrared temperature scanner will point the device at the patient’s forehead. However, this is a relatively cool part of the body. It’s best to point the thermometer at the inner canthus of the eye — right in the inner corner. This is the hottest part of the human face.
*Information taken from ICI Website: www.infraredcamers.com
