QR Code Scanning Troubleshooting Guide
Having trouble scanning a QR code in WorkZerk? This guide covers the most common issues and solutions for different devices.
The QR code is displayed on the self-registration portal as a convenience only. If the user can see the QR code, they can simply scan it and register straight away using their device. The advantage of the QR code is that other contractors ‘hovering’ over the person using the device can scan the QR code and start onboarding without waiting for the device to become available again.
You can also consider using an online ‘QR Code’ generator (there are plenty to choose from) which will create the QR code for you.
iPhone Users
Camera Not Focusing
Clean your lens: Wipe the camera lens with a clean, soft cloth. Fingerprints and smudges are the most common cause of scanning failures.
Tap to focus: Tap directly on the QR code on your screen to force the camera to focus on it.
Move closer or further away: Try holding your phone 15-30cm from the QR code. If you're too close, the camera can't focus properly.
Check the lighting: Ensure there's adequate light on the QR code. Avoid glare or shadows that might obscure parts of the code.
QR Code Not Detected
Use the built-in Camera app: Open your Camera app (not a third-party scanning app) and point it at the QR code. A notification should appear at the top of your screen.
Enable QR code scanning: Go to Settings > Camera and ensure "Scan QR Codes" is turned on.
Update iOS: Older iOS versions may have less reliable QR scanning. Update to the latest version if possible.
Screen Brightness Issues
If the QR code is displayed on a screen rather than printed:
Increase screen brightness: Turn the brightness up to maximum on the device displaying the QR code.
Reduce glare: Tilt the screen displaying the QR code to avoid reflections.
Android Users
Camera Not Focusing
Clean your lens: Wipe the camera lens thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Tap to focus: Tap on the QR code within your camera viewfinder to focus.
Adjust distance: Hold your phone 15-30cm from the QR code for optimal focus.
Steady your hands: Camera shake can prevent scanning. Rest your hands on a stable surface if needed.
QR Code Not Detected
Use Google Lens: Open your Camera app and look for the Google Lens icon (usually in the corner). Tap it, then point at the QR code.
Try the Camera app's built-in scanner: Some Android cameras have built-in QR scanning. Point your camera at the code and wait for a notification.
Download Google Lens: If your camera doesn't have built-in scanning, download the free Google Lens app from the Play Store.
Check camera permissions: Ensure your camera app has the necessary permissions enabled in Settings > Apps > Camera > Permissions.
Browser Zoom Issues
If you're scanning a QR code displayed in a web browser on a tablet or another device:
Zoom in: Pinch to zoom in on the QR code to make it larger and easier to scan.
Use full screen: Tap the full screen button if available to maximise the QR code size.
Rotate to landscape: For tablets, landscape orientation may provide a larger QR code display.
Desktop/Laptop Users
Scanning from a Screen
If you need to scan a QR code displayed on your computer screen:
Use your mobile phone: QR codes are designed to be scanned with mobile devices, not webcams.
Increase zoom level: Press Ctrl and + (Windows) or Cmd and + (Mac) to zoom in your browser and make the QR code larger.
Adjust screen brightness: Increase your monitor brightness to maximum.
Clean your screen: Dust and smudges can interfere with scanning.
Turn off Night Mode: Blue light filters and night mode can distort the QR code. Disable these temporarily.
Alternative Access Methods
If scanning continues to fail:
Look for a typed link: Some screens may display a URL below the QR code that you can type into your phone's browser.
Take a screenshot: Take a screenshot or photo of the QR code and try scanning it from your photo gallery using Google Lens or a QR scanner app.
Tablet Users (iPad/Android)
Scanning Challenges
Tablets can be less convenient for QR scanning due to their size:
Use the rear camera: The rear camera typically has better quality than the front camera.
Stabilise the device: Rest the tablet on a surface or against your body to keep it steady.
Increase QR code size: If viewing the code in a browser, zoom in significantly (150-200%).
Use a phone instead: If available, smartphones are generally easier for QR code scanning.
General Tips for All Devices
Portrait vs Landscape Mode
Use portrait mode: Hold your phone vertically (portrait orientation) when scanning. Most camera apps work better this way.
Keep QR code centred: Ensure the entire QR code is visible within your camera frame with some space around the edges.
When the QR Code is Damaged or Unclear
Request a fresh code: If the QR code appears damaged, faded, or pixelated, contact the site administrator for a new one.
Avoid scanning crumpled paper: If printed, ensure the paper is flat and smooth.
Check for obstructions: Make sure nothing is covering any part of the QR code.
Environmental Factors
Improve lighting: Move to a well-lit area. Natural daylight works best.
Avoid direct sunlight: While good light helps, direct sunlight can create glare. Use shade if outdoors.
Reduce motion: Keep both your phone and the QR code still while scanning.
Still Having Problems?
You may need to complete the registration stage on the device that is showing the QR Code. Once you register, you will receive the URL to use your own device. Therefore, scanning the QR Code on the Self-Registration page is more of a convenience. It makes it easy for multiple arriving together at one site to all register at the same time (and on board all at the same time without forming a queue).
A final alternative would be for the Admin user to create a larger, clearer QR Code at the site entrance or threshold (and not scan the QR Code in the app itself). This will provide the best experience for contractors onboarding, because there is no requirement to wake up the device to scan the QR code.
Most QR code scanning issues are caused by camera focus problems or lighting conditions. Taking a moment to clean your lens and ensure good lighting will resolve the majority of issues.
