Thermal imaging systems help site safety at Network Rail

A key indicator of COVID-19 is an elevated temperature, so by monitoring the body temperatures of staff to within a specific range on entry to site, the cameras are able to help detect and prevent the potential spread of the virus within Network Rail’s workforce.

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The thermal detection solution combines a highly sensitive thermal imaging camera with calibration and monitoring equipment to ensure that raised temperatures in staff are detected. The technology gives an indication of an individual’s body temperature to within +/- 0.3°C, so that staff at critical sites can identify anyone potentially carrying the COVID-19 virus.

“[If] The system detects an individual with a high temperature, 37.8°C or higher, an audio and visual alarm are triggered,” said David Taylor, Network Rail Account Manager, Thales. “The individual is then instructed to wait in a cool, safe place for 15 minutes after which they then retest.  If their temperature is above the threshold then the individual is asked to go home and follow the current government guidance.”