Changes to encourage more people to use QR codes on public transport

It’s mandatory to use QR codes to check in on public transport. But many people haven’t been doing it – until now.

Concerned with the slow uptake of QR coding on public transport, authorities have upgraded the system and told passengers to comply with the rules.

A Transport Department spokesman said new bigger code signs, which can be read by a mobile phone from as far as three metres away, are being phased in to stop people climbing over themselves to get to the tiny coded identifiers.

Chief public health officer Professor Nicola Spurrier has reminded people using the codes for each trip is mandatory. Prof Spurrier was commenting on the new system after SA Health studied data showing there was no upswing in the statewide use of the codes when they were installed in all public transport in August.

QR code check-ins are mandatory on public transport in SA.

“This is now mandatory on public transport and everyone needs to remember to check-in every time they enter a taxi, bus, tram or train,’’ she said.

“To really boost our ability to contact trace in SA, we need everyone to check in.”

SA Health and the Transport Department were not able to provide QR coding data for public transport and the Department of Premier and Cabinet refused to do so.

One of the new larger signs. Picture: Supplied

Prof Spurrier said QR codes on public transport were brought in because of delays and gaps in information about use coming from credit card and metrocard information.

“Scanning when using public transport is critical because if a case is identified, our contact tracing team can quickly identify and contact people who were on the transport at the same time,’’ she said. “While the preference is that you check in upon entry, it doesn’t matter if you check-in as you get on or off, as long as you check-in at some point while using the transport.”

A Transport Department spokesman said there was good hygiene compliance on public transport with a “large majority” of passengers wearing masks.

“The requirement to QR check in onto public transport commenced in early August, and it will take some time for travellers to get used to the new system,” he said.

“We are actively monitoring the use of QR codes on public transport, and will continue to promote their use and educate travellers.

“We encourage all public transport users to take advantage of increased check in options to minimise the chances of the spread of Covid-19, and passengers are also reminded to wear masks while on board.

“Following passenger feedback, the number and size of QR codes within all public transport vehicles has been increased. Feedback from drivers and passengers indicates that the large majority of passengers are wearing masks on board public transport.”

Originally published as Changes to encourage more people to use QR codes on public transport