Portsmouth International Port is claiming to be the first UK port to install a thermal temperature scanner.
The device uses a camera detection system to monitor temperatures, allowing cruise lines can monitor the temperature of their customers prior to embarkation. The port said the introduction of the scanner, and other measures, ensured it was “ready to go” once restrictions are lifted.
The port is looking at all measures and protocols for when the terminal reopens to passengers. This will include face masks for customer facing staff, social distancing measures, clinical level hand sanitation and cleaning stations.
Mike Sellers, director of Portsmouth International Port, said: “We want to make sure we’re in the best position to welcome back passengers in a managed, safe and sensible way.
“Being able to help support our cruise lines by providing solutions for potential health protocol, should operators choose to use it for their customers, means we’re ready to go once travel restrictions are eased.
“There are ongoing discussions about a common framework for health screenings, which are being explored by all transport operators. Until there is an international standard we want to make sure we can meet a universal expectation to reduce the transmission of the coronavirus.”
He said that if overseas travel was delayed further, he expected UK based itineraries to be popular.