Calibrating During COVID

​Thinking about getting back into people’s homes to calibrate? This is one calibrator’s experience
 
I, like most calibrators, have taken a break from visiting people’s homes during the COVID 19 outbreak. The last home I visited was just before lockdown during the first weekend of March, and although I have received a lot of requests I have put them off.  Now that new TV models have been hitting the streets the demand for the work is growing, and by taking some precautions I have a plan for myself and my clients going forward that will ensure everyone’s safety.
 
This client originally emailed me about working on his TV, and before finalizing the appointment I was open with him and told him my concerns with working indoors in close quarters with someone. He understood and we came up with a checklist to ensure that everyone was safe and comfortable. It is always good to set expectations with your client about everything, so this may be something that you consider going forward.
 
-No contact with client – This is a hard habit to break, but an important one. If you do shake hands or fist bump be sure to hand sanitize afterwards.
-I brought my own remote (or wipe theirs down before touching ). A remote control can be a petri dish full of germs as everyone in the home has access to it. Remotes are often forgotten during cleaning, so bring your own (used remotes are easily found on eBay or in a drawer somewhere  in the office).
-Don’t touch anything that you don’t have to. There is no reason to unnecessarily expose yourself. Be cautious of leaning on walls, touching light switches, the TV stand, etc. if you do, remember to hand sanitize afterwards.
-Shoes outside (or disposable booties) – I prefer disposable booties when entering any home. It shows that you respect the customer’s home, and the booties can protect you from any contaminants that might be on the floor.
-Work in a clean area – Before I arrived this client swept, mopped, and disinfected the area that I would be working in. I didn’t ask for this, but I thanked him for the courtesy and thoughtfulness.
-No sitting on the couch – Again, eliminate any unnecessary potential contamination. I typically stand for most of the calibration anyway, but if you like to sit you can always bring your own foldable or collapsible chair.
-Clean hardware with alcohol wipes - After the calibration, before all of my gear goes back into its case, it gets a thorough wipe down.    
-Electronic payment – No physical cash means less potential for exposure
-Email charts and receipts – Sometimes I will give my client a thumb drive with all of the performance charts and settings. Going forward it will all be electronic. There are several good, free file sharing services out there, and for simple things like this I like Google Drive.
-Mask may be necessary – In some cases a mask be necessary for the comfort and safety of everyone involved. Masks vary so be sure to chose one that is both effective and as comfortable as possible. I personally have KN95 masks (N95 are also highly recommended but currently harder to find).
-Bring your own water bottle – If you are like me and drink a lot of water I recommend bringing your own bottle. I have a large insulated bottle that keeps liquids cold (or hot) for several hours. Bringing your own bottle means less things you have to touch in case you are thirsty.
-Find a clever way to remove outer clothing before coming home – My clothes went straight into the laundry when I got home just in case I had any hitchhiking germs
-Shower right away – You have already taken plenty of precaution before and during the calibration, this is the final step  in ensuring that you have done your part to protect yourself and anyone in your own home.
 
I’ve spoken with a lot of calibrators and integrators who are hesitant to start visiting clients again (myself included), but by following these steps you can ensure the safety and comfortability of yourself, your client, and both yours and your client’s families. I hope this helps! Feel free to reach out with any questions or other suggestions! – [email protected]
 
 
 
Jason Dustal
Training and Education
AVPro Global

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