Management with infrared thermography for public institutions in times of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction. Since late 2020, educational institutions in Mexico have faced to a complicated challenge because of the wave of COVID-19 infections, causing most schools to close their facilities and offer their distance education service. However, there was a negative impact that was highly evident: not allowing students to practice in laboratories, workshops, and even personal interaction was suspended. This event generated diverse phenomena such as depression, academic lag, absenteeism, and desertion, among other cases. These events in turn, led to the search for alternatives for a safe return to school. Objective. Develop strategies for entering public institutions in times of COVID-19, applying a safety system using infrared thermography technology. Materials and methods. A quantitative, experimental transactional methodology was needed, as well as infrared thermography that was used for sanitary filters and temperature management of a university community. In this way, it was possible to prevent contact between people at risk of transmission and avoid contact with healthy people. Results. It is highly recommended to consider innocuousness measurements in order to achieve a calm environment, a reduction in the perception of uncertainty and stress, in addition to the fact that there were no massive transmissions of COVID, without suspending the academic activities. Conclusions. Increasing safety at admission, as well as being able to provide reliable spaces, are crucial for promoting the well-being of university communities.