Advanced Thermal Imaging May Help Get More People Back to Work

Not all companies are rushing to bring back employees as the country reopens for physically distanced business. Coca-Cola, headquartered in Atlanta, will keep workers home, despite loosened restrictions in Georgia. Most of Morgan Stanley’s employees, spread across the United States, will continue working remotely. What will it take for people to return to work on a grander scale? Generally, state governments want to see flattened and decreasing infection rates, an increase in COVID-19 testing and contact tracing, and adequate hospital beds and PPE. As states move closer to their testing, tracing, and PPE targets, employers are developing new policies and procedures to keep their people safe. Hardware and software developers are racing to develop products to help them reopen. Telethermographic systems, thermal imaging cameras that measure skin temperature in high-traffic areas such as businesses, airports, and warehouses, are one tool that may help ensure healthier workplaces. In guidance issued in April 2020, FDA “will not object” to the use of telethermographic systems when intended for adjunctive screening, provided the manufacturer meets certain performance and labeling requirements. These devices are not required to obtain 510(k) clearance during the current public health crisis. The Need for Touchless Temperature Checks The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) also gave a green light. In late March, the...
Source: MDDI - Category: Medical Devices Authors: Tags: Software Source Type: news