Thermal imaging cameras installed at The Met to detect coronavirus

The artificial intelligence-equipped tech is now in place at The Met and will automatically temperature scan visitors’ foreheads as they arrive.

Within one second it can identify anyone with a raised body temperature or fever ­— one of the main symptoms of Covid-19.

Temperature readings are taken from a specific area of the head to prevent interference from other heat sources ­— such as a hot drink ­— and ensure face masks can still be worn.

If a high temperature is detected, visual and sound alerts are sent through to staff via a monitor on the reception desk.

Thermal imaging cameras installed at The Met, Bury, by Bury-based firm, Avoira, to detect coronavirus symptoms and help the venue reopen

A test run of the new cameras was carried out last week as The Met hosted a livestream concert for 30 invited guests.

David Agnew, The Met's artistic director, said: “We are tiptoeing from a standstill to again welcoming live audiences to The Met.

“Friday’s pilot event was all about testing how the building will operate and gauging audience reaction to a live streamed gig.

“We’re going to ask all those who attended to give us feedback to see how comfortable they were with the precautions we’ve introduced and the quality of their experience."

The cameras form part of a range of measured being introduced at The Met to help it safely return to business.

Other measures include a one-way system, managed access to the toilets, table service, and track and trace data captured through the venue’s booking system. Staff are also being temperature tested before starting every shift.

Mr Agnew continued: “The thermal imaging camera is important not just because of what it does, but that it can be seen doing it.

"It gives visitors an early indication that we have absolutely everything in place, immediately reassuring them.

“Our staff were very confident using it and every visitor was smoothly and successfully temperature tested on entry.

"I, personally, was surprised at just how quickly the camera works.”

Thermal imaging cameras installed at The Met, Bury, by Bury-based firm, Avoira, to detect coronavirus symptoms and help the venue reopen

The new thermal imaging tech was installed at The Met by Bury-based firm, Avoira.

Andrew Roberts, managing director of Avoira, said: “Thermal imaging is not a silver bullet, but this technology has an important role to play within organisations’ public and employee safety plans.

"It is impressively quick, highly accurate and, being so visually impactive, immediately conveys to customers that their safety is the highest priority.”