This new standard provides thermal imaging camera (TIC) performance standards for used firegrounds and other hazardous environment use. The standard provides requirements for minimum image quality, standard operation, durability, and non-incendive safety. 

MSA is providing a series of informative tools for MSA sales representatives, channel partners and end users, including a white paper outlining the standard's requirements, PowerPoint presentation and educational video, Understanding NFPA Standard 1801 for Thermal Imagers. 

 A condensed version of NFPA 1801 requirements is listed here. 

• Minimum image quality: TICs must meet minimum image quality standards to help ensure that TIC information is of sufficient quality for fireground use.
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• Standard operating requirements: all TICs must provide the same interface, enabling firefighters to use any NFPA-compliant TIC with minimal additional training.
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• Power and service life requirements: once powered on, TICs must operate continuously for a minimum of 120 minutes in Basic Mode without battery charging or change-out.
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• Durability requirements: TICs must be fit for fireground duty; tests include ingress protection, heat/flame resistance, impact acceleration and vibration resistance, and corrosion.
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• Nonincendive safety and electromagnetic requirements: TICS must meet ANSI/ISA 12.12.01 Class 1 Division 2 requirements to be suitable for use within potentially combustible conditions.

Click here to view new white paper
NFPA 1801: Standard on Thermal Imagers for the Fire Service.

Click here to view the PowerPoint presentation.

Click here to view Understanding NFPA Standard 1801 for Thermal Imagers video.