As part of new Covid Safe measures that came in to place on Monday 23 November, businesses are now required to use electronic check-in methods to collect patron details. Under the new requirement, businesses are also required to ensure patrons have provided the required information and must deny entry to those who fail to provide valid details.
The new measures have prompted questions from businesses and customers alike.
How does it work?
QR codes operate like barcodes, with information that can be read by a smartphone camera. They provide a hygienic, contactless way of signing into a venue.
A COVID Safe Check-in QR code is available to all businesses in NSW and is provided as part of the COVID Safe registration pack. Businesses who have already registered as COVID Safe will be emailed their unique QR code.
What is my obligation as a business?
The obligation of the business goes as far as having a staff member verify that patrons have submitted the required contact details electronically via QR code by means of sighting confirmation that check-in has been completed.
It is not mandatory under government regulations to verify valid details have been provided, by means of cross-checking details provided against a license or other form of identification, but it is an option to do so as part of your Covid Safe practices.
How do I collect details from customers without a smartphone?
If a patron does not have a smartphone, businesses must still collect details digitally and record them in a way that protects the privacy of the customer. In these cases, details can be collected on a digital form using an electronic device such as a computer or tablet provided by the business. A record template is available via NSW Health here.
All records must be retained for a minimum of 28 days and provided to NSW Health upon request.
Further details and resources, including accessing the free COVID Safe Check-In app can be found here.