This archive report was first published on 13 May 2020.
As the number of COVID-19 cases in Kenya continues to rise, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has stressed the need for accurate detection of the disease. According to KEBS, infrared thermometers are a crucial tool in early detection, but only if they are properly calibrated.
KEBS Managing Director Lt. Col (Rtd) Bernard Njiraini explained that calibration ensures the equipment's functionality, accuracy, and reliability, minimizing the uncertainty of measurements. 'We must ensure the equipment used to screen patients for COVID-19 and other conditions are calibrated,' he said. 'Calibration will establish their overall functionality, accuracy, and reliability, as well as minimize the uncertainty of the measurements.'
KEBS has the applicable standards guiding the testing and calibration of healthcare equipment to ensure their basic safety, reliability, and effectiveness. The agency has also raised concerns over the sale of face masks not approved by KEBS, warning Kenyans against buying such masks.
As of May 13, 2020, Kenya had reported 715 cases of COVID-19, with 36 fatalities and 259 recoveries.
KEBS has urged manufacturers, traders, and users of infrared thermometers to ensure they are calibrated to the accepted International System of Units (SI) at KEBS laboratories or accredited calibration laboratories.
