Staying Safe with QR Codes
Key Takeaways
- QR codes can be made to distribute and access safety instructions
- Codes can be edited with updated information and saved onto one's own devices
- QR code safety instructions have many benefits when compared to paper instruction books
In any workplace, big or small, white or blue collar, corporate or warehouse, there are certain occupational hazards you want all of your staff to be aware of. In many cases, a simple sign or handbook with detailed instructions can suffice, but these can succumb to wear and tear, or become outdated over a period of time.
Additionally, employees should have access to crucial safety information wherever they are, and shouldn't have to track down a poster or hand book in case of an emergency. Luckily, with QR codes, you can set up and update important safety instructions and information that can be accessed by employees at a moment's notice.
In this piece I will go over how you can use QR codes to distribute safety instructions throughout any workplace, as well as provide a step by step guide on how to use QR Code Developer to make your own. I'll also offer some helpful tips and answer frequently asked questions on this topic.
So let's get to work!
What is a QR code?
A QR code is a type of encoded image that can be scanned by a smart device, like a phone or a tablet, in order to access a variety of online and digital content. This could be a URL address, WiFi login, image, video, social media page, text content, email address, or a number of other resources.
These codes have data saved within monochrome dots, usually in a black and white square, and exist in the real world as simple 2D images, so they can be placed just about anywhere you could display a picture, like on a sticker, card, poster, or flyer.
QR codes are easy to make, through a service like QR Code Developer, and are widely understood by the general populace. They can turn any piece of physical media into a gateway to digital and online resources.
How can QR codes be used with safety instructions?
QR codes can be used as an easy way to distribute safety instructions to be viewed on a user's own device.
For example:
Let's say that a store has a piece of equipment, like a trash compactor or baler, that requires more information to use and understand than other items in the establishment. You could print out all the instructions and bind them all together, but this could get lost, damaged, and become inaccurate after a period of time.
Instead of this, you can make a QR code that links to all of the safety information an employee could need regarding the device via a text document, website link, or video.
This way, the employee won't have to worry about flipping through a physical book and they can keep all the relevant information on their own device to access whenever they want.
But this isn't limited to just equipment
QR codes can also be made for other safety information across all businesses. Instructions can be provided for things like:
• What to do in case of an emergency
• Information on bloodborne pathogens
• Instructions for medical procedures like the Heimlich maneuver
• Details on things like code ADAM or Amber Alert
• Locations to avoid in case of a fire
• Emergency contact lists
And whatever else might pertain to employee and patron safety.
How to make a QR code for a URL address
Below are instructions on how to make a QR code for a URL link, but codes can also be made for PDF and text documents pertaining to safety information.
• Copy the link to the website.
• In QR Code Developer, click on Create Code.
• Select the Website option as your code type.
• Name your code and paste the link into the URL bar.
• Click on the pencil icon in the Preview window to further customize the look of your code.
• Click Generate.
• Test your code on multiple devices.
Benefits of using QR codes
Ease of use
QR codes are both easy to use and easy to make through something like QR Code Developer. Just about every smart phone on the market has a QR code scanner built right in. All you need to do is point the camera at the code and tap the link when it pops up. QR codes can also be scanned from almost any angle and even when visible damage has been done to the code.
Widely understood
By now, most people with smart phones are at least familiar with QR codes and know how to use them. In many regions, QR code payment is more popular than cash or cards.
Customizable
QR codes can be heavily customized, with unique colors and appearances to fit your needs or branding.
Hands free communication
The usage of QR codes surged during the COVID 19 pandemic since it allowed for people to communicate with each other, access content, and share resources, all without needing to touch each other or even be in the same space.
Trackable
If you use something like QR Code Developer to make your codes, then it's possible to monitor how your codes are used. This can include information like how many scans your code got, where they were scanned, and even on what device they were scanned.
Monitoring code usage
With the tools available on QRCodeveloper, as well as other code generators, you can monitor the usage of any code you create. This can include how many times a code has been scanned, where it has been scanned, on what device, using what browser, and more. With these tools, you can figure out which codes are reaching the most people and where to focus any advertising efforts.
With QRCodeveloper you can monitor:
• Number of scans
• Number of scans by operating system
• Scans by browser
• Scans by country
• Scans by city
• Scans by language
• Unique scans
General tips
Know your audience: If you're certain that most of your intended audience doesn't know how to use QR codes or just don't like them, then don't use them.
Keep instructions clear: Provide clear instructions on how to use and scan QR codes as well as where the codes will redirect to.
Place codes on a flat surface: To make sure that codes are still scannable, only put them on flat surfaces, like walls, tables, posters, or fliers.
Use high contrast: If using custom colors on a code, make sure that the colors are distinct enough from each other to be read as a QR code.
Make sure codes are visible: Don't place codes where patrons are unlikely to see them.
Only use codes when necessary: If an alternative exists that's easier for all parties involved, use that.
Test on multiple devices: Make sure your codes work whether scanned on an Android device, iPhone, tablet, or other device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to hire someone to make my QR codes?
No. QR codes can be made by yourself for free through a service like QR Code Developer.
Do I need to download anything to scan QR codes?
While QR scanner apps are available for mobile devices, they are not necessary. Most modern smart devices are perfectly capable of scanning codes right from the built-in camera app.
What devices can scan QR codes?
Most modern smart devices with both a built-in camera and an internet connection can scan QR codes and access the content within. This includes smart phones, tablets, and even some handheld gaming consoles.
Are QR codes safe?
While there are some risks in using QR codes, they are relatively safe.
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