The guideline presents the types of radiation thermometers and thermographic cameras, including the mathematical models used to describe their characteristics. It discusses the optical components of radiation temperature measuring instruments and describes procedures for determining emissivity. It also presents in detail possible sources of error in non-contact radiation thermometric measurement, in particular the influence of the emissivity of the measured object and the radiation temperature of the environment.

The guideline is intended for all those in industry and research who wish to carry out accurate non-contact temperature measurements with radiation thermometers or thermographic cameras, or who want to equip and operate products and systems with appropriate temperature measuring devices.