As announced on 4 May 2021, plans to make TraceTogether-only SafeEntry mandatory have been brought forward to 17 May 2021. The updated joint advisory on Safe Management Measures for F&B Establishments also states that restaurants and F&B establishments must comply with this roll-out timeline. We’ve broken this down into bite-sized pieces:
- What are the changes that will take place from 17 May?
- What is a SafeEntry Gateway (SEGW) and how do I get one?
- What do I need to do to prepare my restaurant for these changes?
- Do I need to replace my restaurant’s SafeEntry QR code?
What are the changes that will take place from 17 May 2021?
From 17 May 2021 onwards, some of the current methods of checking in at your restaurant will no longer be sufficient. For example, diners checking in via a mobile phone QR code reader or SingPass app will not fly. Instead, diners will have to scan the SafeEntry QR with their TraceTogether app or present their TraceTogether token QR code for your restaurant staff to scan.
From 1 June 2021, diners will not be able to have their identity cards’ barcodes scanned to check-in. However, there will be exceptional instances where it is allowed.
From 15 June 2021, restaurants will also be required to allow diners to present their TraceTogether token or app to your SafeEntry Gateway (SEGW) to check-in.
What is a SafeEntry Gateway (SEGW), and how do I get one?
Each venue will be required to provide a SafeEntry Gateway as a means of checking in from 15 June 2021. A SafeEntry Gateway can be provided by installing the SafeEntry Business App or by placing a government-issued SafeEntry Gateway Box at your entrance.
As your restaurant might need to wait to be issued a SafeEntry Gateway Box, you will be able to use the SafeEntry Gateway Function on the SafeEntry Business App in the meanwhile. Nonetheless, you can check the status of your SafeEntry Gateway Box here.
A SafeEntry Gateway can be implemented with a government-issued SafeEntry Gateway Box or via the SafeEntry Gateway Function on the SafeEntry Business App.
What do I need to do to prepare my restaurant for these changes?
On top of preparing for the requirement to provide a SEGW, remember to prepare your restaurant staff for upcoming changes. Diners may not be as informed nor prepared for the new required check-in methods. Restaurant staff would need to educate and assist diners during the initial transition period. Additionally, some restaurants may have to update their SafeEntry collateral.
Do I need to replace my restaurant’s SafeEntry QR code?
SafeEntry and TraceTogether-only SafeEntry QR codes are effectively the same. However, restaurants that had implemented templates issued by SafeEntry at your storefront will now need to reprint and replace these soon-to-be outdated posters. The current instructions on the posters that tell diners they can use their SingPass app to scan the QR will no longer be valid. However, if your restaurant uses customised collaterals without any instructions that will be invalid, no changes will be required.
Need a refresher on safe distancing and table management practices in Singapore in light of COVID-19? Watch our video here.
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