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Test and Trace guidance for businesses

Information for businesses about Test and Trace, including the NHS app and QR codes

Keeping customer details

New regulations came into force on 18 September making it a legal requirement for hospitality and other designated venues to log details of all visitors, customers and staff. You must record customer and visitor details for Test and Trace purposes - you can no longer opt out.

A wide range of indoor and outdoor venues and premises are affected by the new rules including the following sectors:

  • hospitality
  • leisure and tourism
  • close contact services
  • local authority venues

Also, by Thursday 24 September, the above venues and premises must:

  • register for a QR code
  • display NHS QR code posters

Any businesses not complying will risk a fine.

What is a QR code

A QR code is a 'quick response' barcode you display on your premises.

Any customer who has downloaded the new Test and Trace app will be able to scan the QR code on their mobile phone.

This will allow the customer to 'check in' at your venue, and record how long they were there.

It won't record their personal information. But it will be able to notify the customer if they've been in contact with anyone with confirmed Coronavirus at a venue. This process will help trace and stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

While the Test and Trace app is in its early stages, we recommend you continue to collect customer details manually in addition to asking customers and visitors to scan a QR code on their mobile phones.

Apply for a QR code

You can apply for a QR code on the GOV.UK website.

To apply for a QR code you'll need:

  • your email address
  • the address of your business

Apply for a QR code via GOV.UK

What happens next?

Once you've received your QR code, you must display it at your venue. And you must encourage your customers to scan it using the NHS COVID-19 app. To download the app, search for NHSCOVID-19 in the App Store or Google Play Store on your phone.

Further information

The following resources will help you understand your Test and Trace responsibilities as a business: