The NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app is due to be launched on 24th September as part of the coronavirus testing and contact tracing programmes in England and Wales.
The app will be used, alongside traditional methods of contact tracing, to help prevent the spread of coronavirus by notifying users when they come into contact with someone who later tests positive for coronavirus and providing them with advice on what to do next.
Users will be provided with local risk information, and will allow them to quickly and easily book a free test, and use a built-in QR scanner to check-in at venues. The app allows you to log when you visit a venue by ‘checking-in’ by scanning the venue’s QR code on your phone.
You should create and display a QR code if you are:
- a business, place of worship or community organisation with a physical location that is open to the public
- an event which is taking place in a physical location
Retail premises are not generally required to collect contact information as the focus is on higher risk settings. The NHS FAQs guidance on retail environment states: “customers generally move around the space rather than congregate, and are expected, by law, to wear face coverings. QR code posters are therefore only likely to be useful for cafes/restaurants or other enclosed facilities within supermarket premises where customers may congregate.” More information and a list of FAQs for businesses can be found here.
In England, using QR codes will help businesses comply with the new legal requirement to record the contact details of customers, visitors and staff on their premises. Businesses already using QR codes are encouraged to switch to the NHS Test and Trace QR code.
In Wales it is mandatory for businesses in certain high risk sectors to collect and keep records of staff, customers and visitors. Checking in with the app does not replace this requirement and high risk premises in Wales must continue to keep a full record of staff, customers and visitors, including people who check in using the QR code poster for the location.
It is also important for businesses to have an alternative check-in method, such as a handwritten register, to collect the contact details of those who do not have the app.
Businesses can download posters for their premises here.
