Lethbridge businesses using Restriction Exemption Program now require QR code upon entry
Paper immunization records will no longer be accepted as proof of vaccination at non-essential businesses in Alberta.
Instead, places like restaurants and gyms taking part in Alberta’s Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) will only accept a provincial QR code upon entry.
The updated system will see businesses scan the QR codes using an app and check that identification matches.
Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce CEO Cyndi Vos says the cost to businesses is minor.
“It’s very accessible through the App Store, so when you go into a business right now you see it on cellphones, iPads, so that part shouldn’t be too bad for businesses to adjust to,” said Vos.
The downloadable QR code is available at COVIDRecords.Alberta.ca using your health care number. Vos says it's just one more thing for employees to do.
“Is it convenient, no, but this QR code does make it a bit easier because you get out whatever scanning device your using, you hit it, and then you see the person’s ID," said Vos. "Sometimes the paper copy is a little more cumbersome."
JoAnna Dautel, director of operations at the Cor Van Raay YMCA in Lethbridge, says for people accessing their facility, the process should remain relatively the same as when paper records were used.
“Already with the Restriction Exemption Program, we had people email in or show their documentation. So, the only thing that’s really changed is for those that drop in or single-use patrons,” said Dautel.
The YMCA will be providing help to those who are unsure how to download their QR code and will print them free of charge. Dautel says will be assisting customers through the first few days.
“We’ve tried to implement, to keep our community safe, and to make sure it’s as easy as possible for anybody to still access our facility without any barriers including technology that they may not have,” said Dautel.
The YMCA says no personal data is stored or accessed with the scan when visiting the facility.
Vos is asking the community to take it easy these first few days as businesses and staff adjust to the new change.
“There’s an adjustment period for everything, but it does seem that this extra layer of security helps the business owner, and it helps the patrons that are present,” said Vos.
For those who have not been vaccinated -- they can still provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours. Medical exemptions will also be accepted.
With files from CTV Lethbridge's Karsen Marczuk
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
B.C. tenants evicted for landlord's use after refusing large rent increase to take over neighbouring suite
Ashley Dickey and her mother rented part of the same Coquitlam duplex in three different decades under three different landlords.
Mountain guide dies after falling into a crevasse in Banff National Park
A man who fell into a crevasse while leading a backcountry ski group deep in the Canadian Rockies has died.
Expert warns of food consumption habits amid rising prices
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
MPP Sarah Jama asked to leave Ontario legislature for wearing keffiyeh
MPP Sarah Jama was asked to leave the Legislative Assembly of Ontario by House Speaker Ted Arnott on Thursday for wearing a keffiyeh, a garment which has been banned at Queen’s Park.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Ex-tabloid publisher testifies he scooped up possibly damaging tales to shield his old friend Trump
As Donald Trump was running for president in 2016, his old friend at the National Enquirer was scooping up potentially damaging stories about the candidate and paying out tens of thousands of dollars to keep them from the public eye.
Here's why provinces aren't following Saskatchewan's lead on the carbon tax home heating fight
After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government would still send Canada Carbon Rebate cheques to Saskatchewan residents, despite Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe's decision to stop collecting the carbon tax on natural gas or home heating, questions were raised about whether other provinces would follow suit. CTV News reached out across the country and here's what we found out.
Montreal actress calls Weinstein ruling 'discouraging' but not surprising
A Montreal actress, who has previously detailed incidents she had with disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, says a New York Court of Appeals decision overturning his 2020 rape conviction is 'discouraging' but not surprising.
Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye make it four NFL drafts with quarterbacks going 1-3
Caleb Williams is heading to the Windy City, aiming to become the franchise quarterback Chicago has sought for decades.