Need to Know: Thermal Fever Detection

As the UK Government begins to ease lockdown measures, organisations across the country are turning their attention to recovery amid the on-going Covid-19 pandemic. In support of this, SCC is delivering critical projects across all industry sectors, helping organisations protect their people and customers with its new Thermal Fever Detection solution. What is it? SCC’s Thermal Fever Detection solution is powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and uses devices ranging from handheld to fixed multi-camera systems to read body temperature and identify anyone displaying signs of fever, with real-time alerts to enable interception and help prevent the spread of Covid-19 and other contagious diseases. How does it work? Handheld cameras, freestanding units, thermal archways or multi-camera systems are installed in any area where there is human traffic – typically an entrance or checkpoint. The cameras read human temperature, notifying the security officer or nominated officer if someone displays signs of fever, a common and significant symptom of Covid-19. These people can be intercepted, and further tests carried out to curtail the transmission of Covid-19 or other contagious illnesses. Is it accurate? The body temperature reading is accurate. However, the cause of the high temperature is not always immediately clear. Whilst high temperature could indicate a fever, there are other reasons why a person may be hotter than normal, for example if they have run to catch a flight or cycled to work. Thermal Fever Detection is designed to filter potential carriers of Covid-19 quickly and at the earliest opportunity. Can Thermal Fever Detection replace other safety measures? No, Thermal Fever Detection is not a ‘silver bullet and should be deployed alongside robust safety protocols, in line with Government guidance and advice from all relevant health authorities. Thermal Fever Detection should not replace measures such as hand hygiene, appropriate use of PPE, respiratory etiquette, social distancing, and limited contact with people and surfaces etc. However, it will prevent carriers of Covid-19 and other contagious illnesses from socialising on-premises, reducing the risk of an outbreak. Why is it important? UK businesses will be unable to reopen until they can do so safely and demonstrate appropriate measures have been taken to safeguard employees and customers. Thermal Fever Detection will play a vital part in protecting people and providing confidence to workforces and customers alike in mobilising British business, helping to accelerate authorisation from Government and other relevant authorities for whole sectors to reopen safely. As lock down restrictions begin to ease the public will interact more at places of work and travel and therefore the opportunity of infection will increase. The UK has the benefit of following other European counties such as Germany, Italy, France and Spain out of lockdown, where the evidence is clear that infections will increase. We also have an opportunity to get on the front foot and apply assistive technology and procedures to help identify early infections and help protect employees, customers and the general public. Who is using it? SCC’s Thermal Fever Detection solution is already being installed in hospitals and airports across Britain, and proof-of-concepts complete awaiting Government guidelines for major restaurant chains. We are also seeing early adopters in the transport, construction and distribution industries, as the technology is relevant and available to all sectors with physical locations for employees or customers. How much does it cost? We understand budgets are under strain as a result of the pandemic. That’s why SCC’s Thermal Fever Detection solution can be installed for as little as £100pm, including next-day warranty replacement, with a number of affordable pricing options available through SCC Finance. What about data protection? No data is recorded or retained by the Thermal Fever Detection solution. The technology is designed for immediate action to be taken and nothing is stored, so it is fully compliant with all data protection standards. Where can I find out more? You can find out more here. Or see our national media coverage: BBC News The Telegraph