SafeWA is a mobile application developed by the Department of Health Western Australia (WA Health). It is a health program that also works as a convenient COVID-19 tracing method for the region. It caters to both operators and patrons and uses a unique venue QR code in recording users' attendance at certain venues. All data registered are only accessible to health officials, should a positive patient be identified. 

What is SafeWA?

SafeWA is a digital registry app developed exclusively for WA health. It is a part of the mandatory requirements for the public and works as a precautionary measure in line with the country’s COVID safety principles. As noted, both the patrons and the venue operators can use this app. Venue operators will need to register their business to get a unique QR code that the patrons will need to scan upon entering the premises. You can also register for multiple codes if you have multi-function venues. 

For patrons, the app records your attendance to a venue with each scan. You will need to provide your details, including your contact number or email, which will be recorded, together with the log-in of your attendance. For your safety, SafeWa encrypts all your data upon capture and stores them for a maximum of 28 days only. More so, since the record is solely for contact tracing, it will not be accessed unless the venue has recorded a positive patient that you might get in contact with. 

The app requires a working number as part of the registration. Users will need to choose to register as a patron or as a venue operator or both. However, some reports say that once you chose one, you cannot use your number to re-register again. More so, the app sometimes fails to validate some sims, which makes setting up difficult. 

Efficient tracing method

SafeWA is a helpful tool, especially in light of the current situation. The app makes it easier and safer for users to register their contact information whenever they went out to a certain venue. More so, by using the app, the government health officials will not have a hard time tracking people who may have made contact with COVID-positive patients. As it is, however, the app needs further optimization as it comes with a few issues that affect usability.