A BURY technology firm is helping to lead the fight back against coronavirus by launching a range of "smart" thermal detection cameras.

The cameras, beng sold by Salford Street-based company Avoira, use artificial intelligence to detect a person's skin-surface temperature in just one second, and can scan not just individuals but groups.

They also automatically alert operators when detecting a high temperature, such as a fever ­— one of the main symptoms of Covid-19 ­— enabling people to take action to prevent the spread of infection.

Avoira hopes the cameras can be uses in offices, factories, healthcare facilities, schools, colleges, and universities; and transport hubs.

Andrew Roberts, Avoira’s managing director, said: “Thermal detection will play a crucial role as the nation looks towards exiting lockdown and getting back to business.

“These cameras can be swiftly installed to help support employers’ wider Covid-19 protection protocols at a time when people are being actively encouraged to return to work.”

Avoira's new range of cameras includes of fixed, turret and hand-held thermal detection systems, as well as a walk-through solution ­— similar to security body scanners at airports.

Walk-through scanners are ideal for monitoring individuals whilst the camera systems can be deployed for mass screening, the firm says.

Avoira have also launched Black Body Temperature calibration units, which increase the accuracy of temperature measurement from +/- 0.5C0 to +/- 0.3C0.

Mr Roberts continued: "The systems enable non-contact, individual and high-level fever screening which is fast and accurate, reducing the need for riskier and cumbersome manual temperature measurement.

“Whilst clearly not able to diagnose Covid 19 itself, they can provide a highly effective triage service to trigger further diagnostic and containment procedures."

The Avoira cameras can be purchased or leased from £20 weekly.

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