Sensitivity of infrared sensor faucet on different skin colours and how it can potentially effect equity in public health

Qi Ren, Xiao (author)
Heacock, Helen (thesis advisor)
British Columbia Institute of Technology School of Health Sciences (Degree granting institution)

Research paper/project

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© Xiao Qi Ren, 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright heron may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – graphics, electronic, or mechanical including photocopying, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems – without written permission of the author.
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British Columbia Institute of Technology

2022

16 pages

Hand hygiene is essential to human health and day-to-day activities. Maintaining proper hand hygiene can help reduce pathogen growth and transmission of diseases. The automated sensor used for bathroom faucets and soap dispensers can be dated back to the 1950s. These types of fixtures are usually equipped with sensors using a near-infrared beam to detect hands. Its introduction has improved hand hygiene and facilitated good handwashing behaviour. At the same time, disadvantages that come along with advanced technologies should not be neglected, and these disadvantages may lead to inequity in the society.

race
infrared sensor
technology
automated
faucet
soap dispensers
detection
skin colour
skin shades
proper handwashing
racisms
racial discrimination
equity
inequity
public health

Equity
Hand washing
Hand--Care and hygiene
Infrared equipment
Public health
Race discrimination
Racism

Environmental Public Health

electronic

Bachelor of Environmental Public Health