What is Mask Detection?

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Mask detection is an advanced technology that uses AI to detect if subjects in a video feed are wearing masks or not. The use of masks has become quite prevalent in modern work environments since the start of 2020, due to the pandemic. 

In certain industries, such as pharmaceutical or the chemical industry, wearing a mask is also an important requirement. To ensure that employees do not breach these safety protocols, many companies use mask detection. 

How Does Mask Detection Work?

Companies that have a CCTV network in their workplace can connect it with a workplace safety tool that analyzes the footage in real time and checks if subjects are wearing masks.

The software makes use of AI and deep learning models to carefully analyze video and distinguish between a person wearing a mask or one who isn’t. 

As more and more data is fed into the system, it learns to detect even the tiniest of differences, some of which might be imperceptible to the human eye. 

When a subject is detected without a mask in the video, it sends a notification or warning to the relevant authority and stores the event and secures it separately. 

This way, safety managers can review the footage at their own discretion and know just how many times employees weren’t wearing masks. The algorithm continues to get smarter with time, so the results improve in accuracy.

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Benefits of Using Mask Detection Technology

Mask detection is now commonly used in many public places as well as in private companies. More and more companies are now installing mask detection technology because of the many benefits that it offers.

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Identify Any Safety Breaches Immediately

It’s virtually impossible for companies to monitor every employee and know when they are wearing masks or not. In case an employee isn’t wearing a mask and catches a viral disease, they can spread it throughout the office. 

This could result in a major outbreak, which could cause the company to curtail operations for a few days. With the help of mask detection technology however, companies can immediately identify employees and warn them. 

Alerts are sent automatically, as these systems also have the capability to recognize faces. Alerts can be sent in the form of either a SMS message or a notification to specific users to wear their mask. 

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Reduced Risk of an Outbreak 

Wearing a mask is one of the most effective deterrents to a potential outbreak. In case an outbreak does occur, it could lead to a widespread investigation, and it will be difficult to carry out contact tracing.

But, with mask detection technology, employees will take these guidelines more seriously and ensure that they wear masks. Ultimately, this benefits them, as certain employees might be at a greater risk than others. 

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Foster a Safety-First Culture

Wearing a mask in the workplace helps ensure that employees respect each other’s health. There might be some with pre-existing conditions, who may be at an elevated risk of exposure. 

By using mask detection technology, the company can promote a safety-driven culture in the workplace. They can talk to the employees about the harmful effects of not wearing a mask and explain its importance.

Monitoring can then ensure that employees follow the instructions, which shows their commitment to promote safety in the workplace.

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Plug and Play Solution 

Installing mask detection technology in the modern workplace isn’t as difficult as you might think. Companies that offer these systems can easily integrate them with your existing CCTV network. 

This means there’s no need to spend an additional amount on installing or maintaining new cameras. The entire system will work seamlessly with the existing monitoring infrastructure that you have in place. 

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Where is Mask Detection Technology Commonly Used?

There are several common areas where mask detection technology is already in use.

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Offices and Facilities

Many organizations use mask detection technology to enforce safety standards. They use this technology to ensure that employees wear masks and keep the workplace as safe as possible.

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Airports

Mask detection technology is also used in airports. Due to the global pandemic, the use of masks was mandated on all airports and flights. 

But, it’s virtually impossible for safety staff to effectively monitor every individual passing through. Instead, they use mask detection technology to detect those who aren’t wearing masks and then send their picture to a relevant member of staff.

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Hospitals

Hospitals are high-risk environments, with many patients who could be exposed to viruses or other contaminants. Hospitals generally use mask detection technology to ensure all employees wear one, as well as any visitors.