Thermal Imaging Cameras - Choosing a TIC

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MSA Fire Service Program

Determine Your Department's Needs

How will the TIC be used?

search and rescue
size-up
location of the seat of the fire
code inspection
overhaul
HAZMAT

Look at existing department SOPs.
Understand that every department is different and has different Thermal Imaging needs.

Put Together a Team

This team should be a cross-section of your department's members to ensure the process is carried out in an effective manner.
The team should be made up of department members with different levels of experience and expertise. Inexperienced users may point out features or functionality that is not simple and intuitive to users, resulting in additional training requirements for safe operation.

Conduct Research

Gather information on several cameras. All TICs are different. They have different sensors, features and quality of components, which directly affects performance. Less expensive TICs may not have the required durability and/or image clarity needed for your application(s) so investigate carefully before making a decision based on price.
Talk to sales reps. It is best to do this after your research has been done - you will be more educated and will be able to better understand what the sales person is communicating.
Study features and how they benefit you. Look at production literature (such as bulletins) to see what unique features each camera has to offer and how those benefits will fit into the needs of your department.
Compare TIC specifications.
Evaluate approvals and testing.
Study the type of sensor and how its performance influences your needs.
Ask what additional features are available.
Emergency Responder Thermal Imaging Magazine - Volume 1
Emergency Responder Thermal Imaging Magazine - Volume 2
Emergency Responder Thermal Imaging Magazine - Volume 3

Talk to Other Users

Listen to real-life experiences of other firefighters.
What has worked - what has not.

Conduct Hands-on Tests

Once you have gathered all your objective facts on the cameras, it is essential to conduct hands-on tests. The best way to test the cameras and to determine which is the best for you is to test them in real-life scenarios.
Test the products using the appropriate standard procedures and operations (with all tools & gear) to identify any incompatibilities.

Simulate intended use
Practice real-life scenarios

Track the Results

Keep a scorecard.
- Download TIC Scorecard here.
- Download TIC Scorecard Results Summary here.
Measure both objective information (measurable criteria from specifications, brochures, etc.) and subjective comments (users perceptions about product).

Develop the Purchase Specification

Base specification

Fundraising

HERE

PURCHASE THE PRODUCT

Get several quotes from different distributors.
Make sure you are getting what you asked for and need in the product.

Evolution 5200 TIC - first choice in TICs

MSA's Evolution 5200 received Fire Apparatus Magazine's design and engineering award for the "Best Life Safety or Protective System".