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Get The Inward Facing AI Inferred Cameras Out Of Our Truck Cabs Press Release: NIOSH
The government worker health agency NIOSH has issued a statement that inward facing AI inferred cameras are doing serious harm to truck drivers at UPS and other trucking companies throughout the United States.
Get The Inward Facing AI Inferred Cameras Out Of Our Truck Cabs
Press Release: NIOSH Response
NIOSH HHE Closeout letter On Inward Facing Inferred Cameras In UPS Truck Cabs
S Public Health Service
Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention
National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health
1090 Tusculum Avenue
Cincinnati OH 45226-1998
August 18, 2026
HHE 2025-0144
Ms. Kari Wilson
Feeder Supervisor
United Parcel Service
1830 Lampman Drive
Billings, Montana 59102
Dear Ms. Wilson:
In September 2025, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received
a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) request from a representative of Teamsters Union Local 190
to evaluate United Parcel Service (UPS) employees’ exposures to infrared radiation-A (IR-A)
generated by infrared light-emitting diodes (IREDs) in the driver-facing infrared camera driver
monitoring systems installed in company vehicles. Employees were concerned about headaches,
eye irritation, and related health effects they attributed to these cameras.
What We Did
We initially spoke with the requestors in September 2025 to get more information about the
request, employee symptoms, and to provide information about the HHE process. During these
calls, employees noted that they had not been informed about or provided any training for these
driver-facing infrared cameras. They also mentioned that employees of other long haul trucking
companies that utilize comparable infrared camera driver monitoring systems had shared reports
of similar symptoms.
We reached out to UPS management in Billings, MT and Cincinnati, OH about the possibility of
a site visit to collect infrared light measurements on the driver-facing camera systems. However,
management later informed us that we would not be able to make a site visit to collect
measurements on the camera systems.
We reviewed the results of an informal symptom survey conducted by the union via a computer-
based form and completed by more than 250 union members. We also reviewed the results of
informal lab testing (provided to us by the requestors) conducted by International Light
Technologies (Peabody, MA) on IR-A emissions from driver-facing infrared camera models
used in UPS vehicles. Lastly, we reviewed correspondence between the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) and UPS regarding employee concerns about infrared light
exposures.Page 2 – Ms. Kari Wilson
What We Found
At the time of the request, employees reported driving UPS trucks for 8–10 hour shifts. Truck
cabins were fitted with Lytx® dash camera models ER-SF-300 or ER-SF-400, which use 4
IREDs to provide clear video recording of the driver’s face and in-cabin surroundings. The
cameras are motion-activated and operate nearly continuously while the vehicle is in use.
Over 250 employees responded to the informal symptom survey. The survey asked open-ended
questions about symptoms affecting the eyes and skin, visual distractions caused by the camera
system, and whether any medical treatment was administered as a result. Employees could
provide further details or explanation for their responses in a designated comments section of the
symptom survey form. Many employees mentioned irritation of the eyes and skin around the
eyes. In addition, eye fatigue, dry eyes, and watery eyes were also frequently mentioned. Audible
and visual alerts from the camera system were frequently cited as being a distraction that “pulls
attention away from the road.
” We were not provided the details of the survey design such as
method of recruitment or dissemination, or the population of employees that were offered the
survey, so were not able to conduct full analysis of the results. Nevertheless, the survey results
provided context about the nature of employee concerns and symptoms attributed to infrared
camera exposures.
We reviewed results of laboratory testing of infrared camera light emissions conducted by
International Light Technologies, a third-party laboratory specializing in light measurement
instruments. Infrared light measurements were taken for several hours at different configurations
and distances. According to the results shared with us by the requestors, the camera operated in
the standard infrared camera wavelength of 850 nanometers (nm). The broadband irradiance
(radiant energy on a surface per unit area) measurements ranged from 0.44 to 1.25 microwatts
per centimeter squared (µW/cm2). The spectral irradiance (radiant energy on a surface per unit
area per unit wavelength) ranged from 1.8 to 9.5 microwatts per centimeter squared per
nanometer (µW/cm2/nm). We were unable to obtain precise details of the testing methods and
instruments used during this sampling, so we were unable to fully analyze or draw actionable
conclusions from this data.
We reviewed correspondence between UPS and OSHA regarding employee concerns about
infrared light exposures. At the conclusion of this correspondence, dated September 2025,
OSHA determined that the “hazards reported” had been “investigated and corrected” by UPS and
that the matter was considered closed by OSHA.
Discussion
Visible light is a type of electromagnetic radiation. While there are no distinct borders for where
visible light begins and ends on the spectrum, the wavelengths between 380 nm and 780 nm canPage 3 – Ms. Kari Wilson
be used according to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
(ICNIRP) [ICNIRP 2026]. IR-A encompasses wavelengths above the visible spectrum and
extends to 1400 nm wavelengths [ICNIRP 2026].
Cameras equipped with IREDs (typically using 850 or 940 nm wavelengths) can capture images
or video recordings even in near-complete darkness by illuminating the surroundings with near-
IR light and detecting the reflected light. The cameras typically use infrared-sensitive sensors
and may include infrared-cut filters which block infrared light during daytime use, while
specialized applications may use infrared-pass filters. This makes IREDs useful for applications
such as night vision security cameras, facial recognition systems, and automotive driver and
occupant monitoring.
The eyes and skin primarily absorb infrared radiation as heat. The eyes are more vulnerable to
infrared light exposures because they are especially sensitive to thermal damage [ICNIRP 2026].
Excessive exposures to infrared light are often reported as the sensations of heat or pain in the
affected area [OSHA 2026]. Exposures to high-intensity industrial sources of infrared light, such
as those experienced by iron, steel, or glassworkers, can lead to lens opacities or cataracts
[ICNIRP 2026].
ICNIRP [2020] states that based on current exposure limits, most visible light-emitting diodes
(LEDs) and IREDs pose no acute hazard to the eye. Many IREDs are barely visible in the dark to
most individuals [ICNIRP 2020]. There is a notable gap in knowledge about the effects of
chronic exposures or longer periods of exposure to invisible and barely visible infrared light
sources. Further research into the potential effects of these exposures is needed.
Light intensity can be measured in µW/cm2, which is the total amount of broadband energy
received on a surface per unit area, or in µW/cm2/nm which is the amount of spectral energy
received by a surface per unit area for a selected wavelength. These intensity measurements are
often described as irradiance. Neither OSHA nor NIOSH currently have any established
occupational exposure limits for infrared radiation exposures. ICNIRP is an entity that publishes
recommended exposure limits for infrared and other types of non-ionizing radiation. ICNIRP’s
website (https://www.icnirp.org/) has more information on this topic. However, accurate
measurements of infrared light levels from the cameras’ IREDs are needed to calculate and better
understand potential worker exposures.
While low-intensity infrared exposures to the eyes can generally be considered safe, there are
instances where even low-level exposures can be detrimental to employees. Some individuals
can be at risk from exposure levels that are generally considered harmless [ICNIRP 2013]. This
can include those with photosensitive medical conditions or those taking photosensitizing agents.Page 4 – Ms. Kari Wilson
Recommendations
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Evaluate employee exposures to infrared light while operating company vehicles
equipped with driver-facing camaras.
Consider reducing the amount of time the infrared cameras are on during the work shift.
Reducing the amount of time IREDs are in use can substantially reduce employees’
exposures.
Provide training to employees regarding the use of infrared cameras, potential risks of
infrared light exposures, and the levels of exposure expected during their work.
Some employees may be photosensitive due to known or underlying medical conditions.
Consider reassigning sensitive employees to areas where infrared light is not used.
If not already in place, begin using a system to formally track employee health concerns.
Allow employees to report concerns and symptoms anonymously to encourage
participation. This will help identify trends in complaints, symptoms, injuries, and
illnesses, if any.
Establish a regular schedule to review employee concerns, injuries and illness trends with
the goal of identifying hazards that need to be evaluated further. Ensure that the review
protocols maintain privacy and confidentiality of employees.
Employees who experience adverse health effects, or that have health concerns, should be
referred to their physician or an occupational medicine practitioner for further evaluation
to determine appropriate care. If an employee is determined by their healthcare provider
to have an illness related to an occupational exposure, management personnel should
work to eliminate or reduce that exposure and assess the need for environmental
evaluation.
Enable good communication between managers and employees, especially regarding
responses to employee health and safety concerns. One way to accomplish this is by
providing employees with an anonymous system to report workplace health and safety
concerns as recommended above. Another way to enable good communication between
managers and employees is to establish a joint management and employee health and
safety team with regular meetings. Those involved in the work can best assist in setting
priorities and assess the feasibility of our recommendations for the specific situation.
This letter serves as a final report and concludes this health hazard evaluation. NIOSH
recommends that employers post a copy of this letter for 30 days at or near work areas ofPage 5 – Ms. Kari Wilson
affected employees. We are sending a copy of this letter to the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration Denver Regional Office and the Montana Department of Health & Human
Services.
Additional Media:
IBT, UPS, DOL, OSHA Stop The Torture! Infrared Cameras Out Of Our Cabs Demand Teamsters
https://youtu.be/vD3Igqb-Ru8
"No Cameras At UPS" Sean O'Brien At IBT 2010 Strike At CSUSF
https://youtu.be/Wj_GfCydhq0
Teamsters Demand Stop The Torture! Infrared Cameras Out Of Our Cabs NOW!
https://youtu.be/vD3Igqb-Ru8
Teamsters Speak Out On AI In California
https://youtu.be/vD3Igqb-Ru8
Teamsters In Southern California Speak Out On AI,The Class Struggle
https://youtu.be/Ld55pZVykKQ
IBT Pres Sean O'Brien Tells Members He Stopped AI & Robots At UPS
https://youtu.be/yBa_2gDRz0Q
UPS Installs On-Truck Surveillance Cameras
https://www.tdu.org/ups_installs_surveillance_cameras
IBT Pres SOB Using AI
https://thehill.com/homenews/media/5638970-teamsters-substack-newsletter/
Teamsters, AI, Health & Safety & Union Democracy With IBT 396 Steward Hannibal Agular
https://youtu.be/WN3D4TB1mgM
"Out Of Control" Truckers, AI Robotics, IR Cameras, UPS, & Teamsters With Eric Johnson IBT 190
https://youtu.be/QcsHR2YjZKo
California Teamsters Demand Fair Elections & Demand That CA AG Rob Bonta Close Down Unilect
https://youtu.be/SPp-vOV8Ip8
IBT 2010 UC Rank & File Run In Elections & Challenge Officials, UC & UniLect Services
https://youtu.be/9a5igBfZPXY
Labor leaders from across US come to Bay Area to raise concerns over Trump's tariffs
https://abc7news.com/post/labor-leaders-us-come-oakland-raise-concerns-president-donald-trumps-tariffs/18194398/
Labor Protests Trump's Trade War & Tariffs At Port Of Oakland
https://youtu.be/AEzZyVboNVw
Kill Tariffs Not Workers! Teamsters & ILWU Members Protest Tariffs & Trade War At The Port Of Oakland
https://youtu.be/DdIzrM2B-9w
Teamsters,The Rise of Fascism,TDU, Labor Notes & IBT Pres SOB With IBT VP John Palmer
https://youtu.be/3YMBaG-5ZIk
Press Release: NIOSH Response
NIOSH HHE Closeout letter On Inward Facing Inferred Cameras In UPS Truck Cabs
S Public Health Service
Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention
National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health
1090 Tusculum Avenue
Cincinnati OH 45226-1998
August 18, 2026
HHE 2025-0144
Ms. Kari Wilson
Feeder Supervisor
United Parcel Service
1830 Lampman Drive
Billings, Montana 59102
Dear Ms. Wilson:
In September 2025, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received
a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) request from a representative of Teamsters Union Local 190
to evaluate United Parcel Service (UPS) employees’ exposures to infrared radiation-A (IR-A)
generated by infrared light-emitting diodes (IREDs) in the driver-facing infrared camera driver
monitoring systems installed in company vehicles. Employees were concerned about headaches,
eye irritation, and related health effects they attributed to these cameras.
What We Did
We initially spoke with the requestors in September 2025 to get more information about the
request, employee symptoms, and to provide information about the HHE process. During these
calls, employees noted that they had not been informed about or provided any training for these
driver-facing infrared cameras. They also mentioned that employees of other long haul trucking
companies that utilize comparable infrared camera driver monitoring systems had shared reports
of similar symptoms.
We reached out to UPS management in Billings, MT and Cincinnati, OH about the possibility of
a site visit to collect infrared light measurements on the driver-facing camera systems. However,
management later informed us that we would not be able to make a site visit to collect
measurements on the camera systems.
We reviewed the results of an informal symptom survey conducted by the union via a computer-
based form and completed by more than 250 union members. We also reviewed the results of
informal lab testing (provided to us by the requestors) conducted by International Light
Technologies (Peabody, MA) on IR-A emissions from driver-facing infrared camera models
used in UPS vehicles. Lastly, we reviewed correspondence between the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) and UPS regarding employee concerns about infrared light
exposures.Page 2 – Ms. Kari Wilson
What We Found
At the time of the request, employees reported driving UPS trucks for 8–10 hour shifts. Truck
cabins were fitted with Lytx® dash camera models ER-SF-300 or ER-SF-400, which use 4
IREDs to provide clear video recording of the driver’s face and in-cabin surroundings. The
cameras are motion-activated and operate nearly continuously while the vehicle is in use.
Over 250 employees responded to the informal symptom survey. The survey asked open-ended
questions about symptoms affecting the eyes and skin, visual distractions caused by the camera
system, and whether any medical treatment was administered as a result. Employees could
provide further details or explanation for their responses in a designated comments section of the
symptom survey form. Many employees mentioned irritation of the eyes and skin around the
eyes. In addition, eye fatigue, dry eyes, and watery eyes were also frequently mentioned. Audible
and visual alerts from the camera system were frequently cited as being a distraction that “pulls
attention away from the road.
” We were not provided the details of the survey design such as
method of recruitment or dissemination, or the population of employees that were offered the
survey, so were not able to conduct full analysis of the results. Nevertheless, the survey results
provided context about the nature of employee concerns and symptoms attributed to infrared
camera exposures.
We reviewed results of laboratory testing of infrared camera light emissions conducted by
International Light Technologies, a third-party laboratory specializing in light measurement
instruments. Infrared light measurements were taken for several hours at different configurations
and distances. According to the results shared with us by the requestors, the camera operated in
the standard infrared camera wavelength of 850 nanometers (nm). The broadband irradiance
(radiant energy on a surface per unit area) measurements ranged from 0.44 to 1.25 microwatts
per centimeter squared (µW/cm2). The spectral irradiance (radiant energy on a surface per unit
area per unit wavelength) ranged from 1.8 to 9.5 microwatts per centimeter squared per
nanometer (µW/cm2/nm). We were unable to obtain precise details of the testing methods and
instruments used during this sampling, so we were unable to fully analyze or draw actionable
conclusions from this data.
We reviewed correspondence between UPS and OSHA regarding employee concerns about
infrared light exposures. At the conclusion of this correspondence, dated September 2025,
OSHA determined that the “hazards reported” had been “investigated and corrected” by UPS and
that the matter was considered closed by OSHA.
Discussion
Visible light is a type of electromagnetic radiation. While there are no distinct borders for where
visible light begins and ends on the spectrum, the wavelengths between 380 nm and 780 nm canPage 3 – Ms. Kari Wilson
be used according to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
(ICNIRP) [ICNIRP 2026]. IR-A encompasses wavelengths above the visible spectrum and
extends to 1400 nm wavelengths [ICNIRP 2026].
Cameras equipped with IREDs (typically using 850 or 940 nm wavelengths) can capture images
or video recordings even in near-complete darkness by illuminating the surroundings with near-
IR light and detecting the reflected light. The cameras typically use infrared-sensitive sensors
and may include infrared-cut filters which block infrared light during daytime use, while
specialized applications may use infrared-pass filters. This makes IREDs useful for applications
such as night vision security cameras, facial recognition systems, and automotive driver and
occupant monitoring.
The eyes and skin primarily absorb infrared radiation as heat. The eyes are more vulnerable to
infrared light exposures because they are especially sensitive to thermal damage [ICNIRP 2026].
Excessive exposures to infrared light are often reported as the sensations of heat or pain in the
affected area [OSHA 2026]. Exposures to high-intensity industrial sources of infrared light, such
as those experienced by iron, steel, or glassworkers, can lead to lens opacities or cataracts
[ICNIRP 2026].
ICNIRP [2020] states that based on current exposure limits, most visible light-emitting diodes
(LEDs) and IREDs pose no acute hazard to the eye. Many IREDs are barely visible in the dark to
most individuals [ICNIRP 2020]. There is a notable gap in knowledge about the effects of
chronic exposures or longer periods of exposure to invisible and barely visible infrared light
sources. Further research into the potential effects of these exposures is needed.
Light intensity can be measured in µW/cm2, which is the total amount of broadband energy
received on a surface per unit area, or in µW/cm2/nm which is the amount of spectral energy
received by a surface per unit area for a selected wavelength. These intensity measurements are
often described as irradiance. Neither OSHA nor NIOSH currently have any established
occupational exposure limits for infrared radiation exposures. ICNIRP is an entity that publishes
recommended exposure limits for infrared and other types of non-ionizing radiation. ICNIRP’s
website (https://www.icnirp.org/) has more information on this topic. However, accurate
measurements of infrared light levels from the cameras’ IREDs are needed to calculate and better
understand potential worker exposures.
While low-intensity infrared exposures to the eyes can generally be considered safe, there are
instances where even low-level exposures can be detrimental to employees. Some individuals
can be at risk from exposure levels that are generally considered harmless [ICNIRP 2013]. This
can include those with photosensitive medical conditions or those taking photosensitizing agents.Page 4 – Ms. Kari Wilson
Recommendations
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Evaluate employee exposures to infrared light while operating company vehicles
equipped with driver-facing camaras.
Consider reducing the amount of time the infrared cameras are on during the work shift.
Reducing the amount of time IREDs are in use can substantially reduce employees’
exposures.
Provide training to employees regarding the use of infrared cameras, potential risks of
infrared light exposures, and the levels of exposure expected during their work.
Some employees may be photosensitive due to known or underlying medical conditions.
Consider reassigning sensitive employees to areas where infrared light is not used.
If not already in place, begin using a system to formally track employee health concerns.
Allow employees to report concerns and symptoms anonymously to encourage
participation. This will help identify trends in complaints, symptoms, injuries, and
illnesses, if any.
Establish a regular schedule to review employee concerns, injuries and illness trends with
the goal of identifying hazards that need to be evaluated further. Ensure that the review
protocols maintain privacy and confidentiality of employees.
Employees who experience adverse health effects, or that have health concerns, should be
referred to their physician or an occupational medicine practitioner for further evaluation
to determine appropriate care. If an employee is determined by their healthcare provider
to have an illness related to an occupational exposure, management personnel should
work to eliminate or reduce that exposure and assess the need for environmental
evaluation.
Enable good communication between managers and employees, especially regarding
responses to employee health and safety concerns. One way to accomplish this is by
providing employees with an anonymous system to report workplace health and safety
concerns as recommended above. Another way to enable good communication between
managers and employees is to establish a joint management and employee health and
safety team with regular meetings. Those involved in the work can best assist in setting
priorities and assess the feasibility of our recommendations for the specific situation.
This letter serves as a final report and concludes this health hazard evaluation. NIOSH
recommends that employers post a copy of this letter for 30 days at or near work areas ofPage 5 – Ms. Kari Wilson
affected employees. We are sending a copy of this letter to the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration Denver Regional Office and the Montana Department of Health & Human
Services.
Additional Media:
IBT, UPS, DOL, OSHA Stop The Torture! Infrared Cameras Out Of Our Cabs Demand Teamsters
https://youtu.be/vD3Igqb-Ru8
"No Cameras At UPS" Sean O'Brien At IBT 2010 Strike At CSUSF
https://youtu.be/Wj_GfCydhq0
Teamsters Demand Stop The Torture! Infrared Cameras Out Of Our Cabs NOW!
https://youtu.be/vD3Igqb-Ru8
Teamsters Speak Out On AI In California
https://youtu.be/vD3Igqb-Ru8
Teamsters In Southern California Speak Out On AI,The Class Struggle
https://youtu.be/Ld55pZVykKQ
IBT Pres Sean O'Brien Tells Members He Stopped AI & Robots At UPS
https://youtu.be/yBa_2gDRz0Q
UPS Installs On-Truck Surveillance Cameras
https://www.tdu.org/ups_installs_surveillance_cameras
IBT Pres SOB Using AI
https://thehill.com/homenews/media/5638970-teamsters-substack-newsletter/
Teamsters, AI, Health & Safety & Union Democracy With IBT 396 Steward Hannibal Agular
https://youtu.be/WN3D4TB1mgM
"Out Of Control" Truckers, AI Robotics, IR Cameras, UPS, & Teamsters With Eric Johnson IBT 190
https://youtu.be/QcsHR2YjZKo
California Teamsters Demand Fair Elections & Demand That CA AG Rob Bonta Close Down Unilect
https://youtu.be/SPp-vOV8Ip8
IBT 2010 UC Rank & File Run In Elections & Challenge Officials, UC & UniLect Services
https://youtu.be/9a5igBfZPXY
Labor leaders from across US come to Bay Area to raise concerns over Trump's tariffs
https://abc7news.com/post/labor-leaders-us-come-oakland-raise-concerns-president-donald-trumps-tariffs/18194398/
Labor Protests Trump's Trade War & Tariffs At Port Of Oakland
https://youtu.be/AEzZyVboNVw
Kill Tariffs Not Workers! Teamsters & ILWU Members Protest Tariffs & Trade War At The Port Of Oakland
https://youtu.be/DdIzrM2B-9w
Teamsters,The Rise of Fascism,TDU, Labor Notes & IBT Pres SOB With IBT VP John Palmer
https://youtu.be/3YMBaG-5ZIk
For more information:
https://youtu.be/251nRlqR96Y?is=0L0ynkNKEl...
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