A Newcastle pub will become the first in the world to trial a new face scanning technology, aimed at reducing the spread of Covid-19 in licensed venues.
The Hotel Delaney, on Darby Street will trial the 'CoolGard' device this Saturday which has been developed by Hunter based technology company, Pulse.
The device will use AI facial recognition and infrared technology to automatically scan guest's temperature upon entry, rather than by staff using handheld temperature guns.
"It's more accurate than the hand held guns. We've heard stories of guys rubbing ice on their foreheads just so they'll be allowed in," the Delany Hotel’s licensee, Joshua Redman said.
The CoolGard device will capture identification and contact details electronically, and can be programed to ask guests certain questions as they arrive, such as if they've recently traveled to Victoria.
The device will also keep track of patron numbers onsite at any time,with venue capacity limits now needing to be monitored.
Mr Redman believes this technology is the right step in the quest to get back to normality.
“The system provides constant monitoring of our staff and patrons as they arrive onsite. We are continuing to look for anything that will ultimately help keep everyone safe and feeling comfortable in our venue."
Keeping the hospitality industry running throughout the pandemic continues to be a day-by-day process and Joshua believes CoolGard will help aid in this challenge.
"I believe starting with the CoolGard system can help prevent the possible closure of The Del while the threat of COVID-19 remains out there in the community."
"The system will also facilitate the earliest possible intervention in any potential community transmissions involving the hotel, through more rapid and precise and contact tracing.”
