BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Schools are going high tech this fall to stop the spread of COVID-19. They're using new tools to keep students hands-free and healthy when they return to the classroom.
"Schools are all trying to get back and we really need to have a good way to get in and out quickly and this is the perfect fit for them," said David Scibetta, EVP and CIO at Copier Fax Business Technologies based in Downtown Buffalo.
He's introducing a tool that helps speed up the process of checking your temperature when you enter a building. It's called a thermal facial recognition camera.
"I have 3 kids of my own and I want to make sure their safe return to school. This is a higher level of technology and it's going to really make sure my kids are safe too," said Scibetta.
Here's how it works. You come in and stand in front of the camera. It takes your temperature and makes sure you're wearing a mask. You must have a normal temperature and face covering to get access.
There's also an electronic receptionist where you can sign in and answer a COVID-related questionnaire using a smart phone. This creates a log of who goes in and out of the building, which helps with contact tracing. It's all touchless and takes less than one minute.
"We really want to make sure we can get downtown Buffalo and all of WNY back and going again," said Scibetta.
Dozens of schools in WNY are already on board. The Stay Well package costs $179/month for a 36 month subscription. If you're interested, he recommends you act now as these are in high demand.
Niagara University is also turning to technology to make things easier on students this fall with their new NUAR Network.
"There's more information now required than ever before, so we found several pieces of technology we thought would be helpful to help the university reopen," said Patrick Whalen, Director of Niagara Global Tourism at Niagara University.
There will be hundreds of signs around campus to help answer any questions students may have. All they need is an app called AR Everyware.
When you scan the sign with the app, it sends a video message telling you to stay socially distant or which staircase is down or up. As information changes, so will the videos.
"What's different about Niagara University than a lot of other universities is some of this technology we're using. Technology is critical in helping us get back to what normal will be like," said Whalen.
For more information on the Thermal Facial Recognition Cameras click here or call 716-853-5000. For more information on AR Everyware, click here.
