The National Institute of Standards and Technology in Gaithersburg, Md., has submitted recommendations for evaluating thermal imager performance to the National Fire Protection Association in Quincy, Mass. The proposed performance metrics would reveal a camera’s ability to detect a variety of conditions, including hot spots and hazardous material spills. Tests to assess durability and image quality also are included.

Researchers hope that the proposal will give fire departments criteria on which to base their thermal imager purchasing decisions. The US Department of Homeland Security and the US Fire Administration are providing funding for the institute’s ongoing thermal imaging performance evaluation project.