Coronavirus
NHS COVID-19 app advice for businesses
The government has removed remaining domestic restrictions in England. There are still steps you can take to reduce the risk of catching and spreading COVID-19:
- Get vaccinated
- Let fresh air in if meeting indoors, or meet outside
- Consider wearing a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaces
It is a legal requirement for all designated businesses and venues to log details of customers, visitors and staff for NHS Test and Trace and from Thursday 24 September they will be required to display official NHS QR code posters.
More information on the app and the requirements of businesses can be found on GOV.UK or you can read more about which venues in England should display official NHS QR code posters.
- GOV.UK – Venues required to enforce rule of 6, NHS QR code posters and contact logs
- NHS – Which venues in England should display the official NHS QR code poster?
The COVID-19 app and the use of the NHS QR code posters are a key part of the COVID-19 response and by supporting the official NHS QR code poster system, you’ll be protecting your visitors and your business. You will help to slow the spread of the virus, reduce the impact of any second wave, and help normal life to resume more quickly.
To prepare for this you must use the online tool to create a coronavirus NHS QR code for your venue or business. Use this service to create a QR code for display in your venue. Get visitors to scan the QR code when they arrive, using the NHS COVID-19 app.
If you have more than one location, you need to create a different QR code for each location. You can add multiple locations.
You can also find further resources including tips on how to generate a QR code, where to display posters and further information on the app on the NHS COVID App support pages.
It is important to emphasise that use of the App and QR codes is a legal requirement and does not increase the chances of you being ‘shut down’ in the event of an outbreak. App users, if they receive an alert, will not be told which venue they were at. The data will enable public health teams to swiftly identify any potential hotspots and work with businesses to make changes if needed and provide them with support and guidance. Businesses which operate in a COVID safe way are less likely to be closed down.
Please note that although you are required to display the QR you still need to ensure that people who cannot or will not use the app give the legally required details and in the case of food or drink premises you must refuse entry unless people either scan the qr code or give you their details.
Please also note that even if you have your own QR code system you must still display the NHS QR code.
We appreciate the substantial requirements of businesses to ensure they are COVID safe, and want to thank you for all your efforts to date, as you know it is crucial we continue to all work together to keep the community safe and reduce the spread of the virus and the App will assist us all in being able to do this.