American fast-food restaurant company In-N-Out Burger has announced that its employees wearing a mask will be required to provide a medical note for the need to wear a mask.

The company said the new policy underlines the importance of customer service by ensuring that its associates smile and communicate with guests with visible facial expressions.

Starting 14 August 2023, employees wearing a mask without providing a doctor’s note could face disciplinary action.

The company’s new policy will be applicable to all store and support associates working in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Texas, and Utah.

The medical note must be submitted to the manager or the Human Resources (HR) representative to wear the mask during their work hours.

In-N-Out Burger also added that the new policy is subject to the guidelines and regulations of the local health authority.

In-N-Out Burger in its email said: “We are introducing new mask guidelines that emphasize the importance of customer service and the ability to show our Associates’ smiles and other facial features while considering the health and well-being of all individuals.

“We believe this policy will also help to promote clear and effective communication both with our Customers and among our Associates.”

However, it added that employees who are required to wear masks or other protective equipment to carry out their duties will be exempted.

In April this year, In-N-Out Burger announced the opening of its new restaurant location in Denver, Colorado.