Since this is no touch, you can check the temp of yeast washing and yeast rehydration water and your starter wort without the risk of infection.  I find mine particularly useful for rehydrating yeast.

Infrared thermometers should not be considered a direct replacement for a conventional thermometer.  A quality IR thermometer will give you a close approximation of surface temperatures.  Note that steam seems to throw off readings.  Uses include: Contained yeast rehydration water, chilled wort or starter temperature, kegerator, fermenter or fermentation area and beer tasting samples.  If you’re looking for a great conventional thermometer consider Thermapen ONE – Hands on Review