Although the recent vaccine success stories offer the world hope in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of people are still dying every day, almost a year after the outbreak. Businesses have been forced to find safer ways to interact with clients, and QR codes are making a comeback. Businesses in all sectors are using QR codes to minimize physical contact with clients or make the interactions contactless. 

What are QR codes?

A quick response (QR) code is a 2D version of the conventional barcode system. QR codes store and are capable of conveying a variety of information, which is available with a mobile scan. They are known as quick response codes because this information is available instantly following a scan.

The typical QR code stores well over 7,000 digits or up to 4296 characters and can encode phrases and words, including internet addresses.

How QR codes prevent the spread of COVID-19

Over the years, we have experienced the use of QR codes in several places, from online shopping to site logins through to payments and URLs. Their use has surged recently, especially in the tourism and hospitality industries, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you aren't using them already, all you need is a QR code generator, and you are ready to go. Here are a few ways QR codes are helping businesses curb the spread of COVID-19

1. By replacing cash payments

A survey shows that more than 26% of consumers would feel safer and more comfortable shopping in brick-and-mortar stores that accept contactless payment. QR code payments reduce the need for contact between employees and customers, significantly trimming the risk of COVID-19 spreading.

2. By reducing crowding

QR code payments are, without a doubt, quicker than cash payments. This means checkout is quicker, and customers can get in and out of the store more swiftly. A store that uses QR codes will therefore have better control of human traffic in their premises, reducing the spread of the virus without necessarily changing the way they operate.

3. By reducing contact

COVID-19 doesn't just spread when an uninfected person comes into direct contact with an infected one. It also happens when someone touches a surface that has been touched by an infected person. QR codes are helping businesses reduce direct and indirect physical exchanges in a number of ways. For example, restaurants are taking away physical menu cards from the table and replacing them with digital versions. All a customer has to touch when using such a menu is their smartphone.

4. By enabling contactless check-in

Many businesses are using QR codes for contactless check-in to workplaces and premises. Some systems are set-up to collect a customer's details to make contact tracing easy in the event someone in the office whom the customer had contact with tests positive for the virus.

Endnote

These are some of the ways businesses can use QR codes to protect their customers and employees from COVID-19. Consider adopting them to increase the safety of your workplace and attract health-conscious customers.