SafeWA is a health app developed by the Department of Health Western Australia (WA Health). It works as a secure and convenient way for users to register their attendance at certain venues in the region. Using a unique venue QR code, it provides a digital register of contact details of its users. The app works for both venue operators and patrons, making it a convenient COVID-19 tracing method, should it be necessary.

Scan the code

SafeWa works as a digital register. Developed exclusively for WA Health, it is part of the mandatory requirements for venue operators and the public to maintain a contact register. It also developed as an extra precautionary measure in line with the country’s COVID safe principles. As noted, it provides QR codes for both operators and patrons. Venue operators will need to register their establishments to get a unique QR code, which the patrons will scan to register their attendance. They can also apply for multiple codes if they have multi-function venues. 

Patrons, meanwhile, will need to register their details—name, contact number, and optional email—to the app, which will be recorded every time they scan the venue QR code. Additionally, the app will record the log-in time of your attendance. SafeWA records your attendance for the sole purpose of contact tracing. It also encrypts all data at the point of capture for your safety. More so, records are stored securely for a maximum of 28 days. More so, the records are only accessible to authorized health personnel should a positive patient be identified. 

SafeWA uses your mobile number when you register. The app says you can register as both business and individual using the same number. However, some reports that they can only register as either. The app also has some trouble validating sims, and there are even cases of users having a hard time setting up. 

Helpful but needs optimization

With the current situation, having apps such as SafeWA is a big help. With this, tracing those who have come in contact with a COVID-19 patient will be a lot easier. More so, it lessens the need to write for your contact information every time you visit a public venue since you only need to scan the QR code. However, as it is, the app needs a few improvements to ensure a better user experience.