Check that temperature checker!
Digital temperature checking devices are the new norm when entering buildings, restaurants, and store. Photo Credit: Anton
October 6, 2020
Coronavirus has led to several safety inventions, including the temperature checking “gun”. This device enables one to get their temperature checked without direct contact to the skin.
I have checked many peoples’ temperatures using this device, and they seem to stop working after several uses. A common thing that happens with this is it will show the same temperature for everyone it checks. Another common error is if it is not held close enough to someone’s head, it won’t work. The temperature will then show 92.9 or something similar to that.
These devices are also not as accurate because they are not physically touching you, so they won’t know your body temperature.
I think the temperature checking “gun” is a good idea but not well executed, and the cheap ones don’t work. Furthermore, someone could have the coronavirus, but not have a temperature which defeats the purpose of using this device.
If you are not feeling well, please stay home. In addition, please wear a mask. This means you have to cover your mouth and nose when wearing one. By doing this, it helps stop the spread of COVID-19, so one day, temperature checking devices won’t be needed when entering a building.
Jeffrey Miller • Oct 25, 2020 at 9:54 pm
That’s good info. I’ve heard the temperature checks can be spotty and now I know why. Sounds like we should all just keep our masks on…
Michael Clifford • Oct 19, 2020 at 2:38 pm
We do temperature checks every day before school and I have noticed the same problems.
We even test our 17 year old beagle just for fun and often his temperature is the exact same as ours.
They do seem very unreliable. thanks
Susie • Oct 19, 2020 at 11:48 am
All great points, Gabby! I have wondered why my temp taken with the gun makes it seem like I am a reptile! Thank you for the helpful info.
Tadd Wells • Oct 16, 2020 at 3:30 pm
The temp gun at the Y always gives me the same temp- now I know why. Might have to ask
them to check that checker
Smacchi • Oct 16, 2020 at 3:12 pm
Good point about the thermometers! And excellent note about the fact that masks must cover your nose and mouth. I keep seeing people wearing masks on their chin – crazy.
Mike • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:59 pm
Very good points.
Lkurzawa • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:47 pm
Excellent points! We have used one of these types several times and definitely notice that after several uses in a row they stop reading accurately.
While checking temperatures is a step in early detection, as you mentioned not everyone will have the fever so it isn’t perfect. Wearing a mask and staying home when not feeling well is the best choice!
Barbara McElroy • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:37 pm
Helpful information and good to know! I had thought about purchasing a temperature “gun” but will go another route. Mask up and stay six feet apart, for now!
NATALYA • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:31 pm
Some really great points Gabby! I had this happen to me and when I retook it other ways, it was totally normal.
Ken Brown • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:28 pm
Good to know. I had one used on me a few weeks ago, and wondered the degree of accuracy they had. Great insight.
Jennifer Tullar • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:26 pm
This article brings up such a great point! So many businesses, including restaurants, daycares, doctor’s offices and even Disney World, are relying heavily on this one method of “verification” for the presence of Covid-19 in an individual! You’re right – while a great idea, there is work to be done. Perhaps using a thermometer that does actually make physical contact, but then using a Clorox wipe, etc. after each use would make for a more efficient model. Thanks for writing this in effort to bring attention to what seems to be a flawed system during such a crucial time! Great work, Gabby!
Chris Gray • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:06 pm
I have wondered the same if the temp “gun’ is accurate, and am not surprised the less expensive “guns” don’t work as well. I guess it’s a good option to get people in a building and filter out some that have a high temp but probably not the best option. Thanks for the article.
Theresa Cottrell • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:05 pm
Interesting. Thanks for bringing this to light! It seems nothing is 100% accurate anymore. False positives, false negatives. It’s all a big question mark, isn’t it?
Karen Mack • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:03 pm
Gabby! Wow! I truly had no idea that these devices weren’t very accurate. I suspected they weren’t perfect but your article really gave me much more insight to this device. Thank you for taking the time to do the research. Me and my family really appreciate it.
Grateful,
Karen Mack
Britt Griffin • Oct 16, 2020 at 1:01 pm
I agree, those temperature guns are not always 100% accurate. I think the accuracy will improve though as there becomes an increased demand for them. Really good points Gabby!
Risa • Oct 16, 2020 at 12:57 pm
I’ve noticed every time one has been used on me (dentist office, nail salon) the Reading seems extremely low and I normally do not run a low temperature…
Will Shields • Oct 16, 2020 at 12:55 pm
Great points! The temperature check gives a false sense of security. Agree with Gabby- Masks, and good hygiene are as important (if not more) than having your temperature checked.