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2.13 Team Member Privacy and Personal Activities

Policy Statement

THE COMPANY respects the privacy of its Team Members and is committed to handling personal information responsibly, professionally, and in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. While working for THE COMPANY, Team Members are expected to maintain professionalism, protect confidential information, and ensure that personal activities do not interfere with job duties, workplace safety, or the guest experience.

This Policy outlines how personal information is handled, the limits of privacy in the workplace, and the expectations surrounding personal activities on Company time and property.

 

Respect for Personal Privacy

THE COMPANY collects and uses only the personal information necessary for legitimate business purposes. This may include payroll information, emergency contacts, tax documents, employment eligibility materials, and other required forms.

THE COMPANY will protect this information by:

  • Storing personal data securely
  • Limiting access to authorized personnel
  • Keeping medical and accommodation-related information separate and confidential
  • Never sharing personal information unless required by law or business necessity

Team Members are not required to disclose personal information beyond what is necessary for employment, accommodations, or legal compliance.

 

Limited Expectation of Privacy at Work

While THE COMPANY respects privacy, Team Members should understand that workplace property and systems are Company-owned. This includes:

  • POS terminals
  • Company-issued devices
  • Cameras and security systems
  • Company email or communication tools
  • Timekeeping systems
  • Storage areas
  • Restaurant facilities

These systems may be monitored as permitted by law to ensure safety, security, and operational integrity.
Team Members should not expect personal privacy when using Company equipment or systems.

 

Cameras and Surveillance

THE COMPANY may use security cameras in public and operational areas of the restaurant for safety, loss prevention, and operational oversight. Cameras will never be used in private areas such as restrooms or designated lactation spaces.

Surveillance footage is confidential and will be accessed only by authorized leadership or law enforcement when required.

 

Personal Activities During Work Hours

Team Members are expected to focus on job duties during scheduled work hours. Personal activities must not interfere with work responsibilities, safety, or guest service.

The following expectations apply:

  • Personal phone use should be limited to breaks unless permitted by a Manager.
  • Personal calls, texts, or social media activity should occur only on approved breaks.
  • Personal items should be kept in designated storage areas.
  • No personal errands, projects, or tasks may be completed during work time.
  • Off-duty Team Members should not loiter, hang out, or socialize inside the restaurant unless authorized for a legitimate business purpose.

These rules ensure safety, professionalism, and an uninterrupted guest experience.

 

Off-Duty Personal Conduct

Team Members’ off-duty conduct is generally private. However, conduct outside work may become a Company concern if it:

  • Interferes with job performance
  • Violates Company policies
  • Damages THE COMPANY’s reputation
  • Harasses or threatens coworkers
  • Involves illegal activity that affects the workplace
  • Creates safety or security risks

Team Members are responsible for conducting themselves in a way that upholds THE COMPANY’s standards even outside the workplace when actions may be connected back to their role.

 

Personal Belongings

Team Members are responsible for securing their own personal belongings.
THE COMPANY is not responsible for personal property that is lost, stolen, or damaged on Company premises, though reasonable efforts will be made to assist if an incident occurs.

For safety and sanitation reasons:

  • Bags, purses, backpacks, and personal items must be stored away from food prep areas.
  • Personal food or beverages must not be consumed in guest service or food prep areas.

 

Use of Personal Phones and Devices

Personal phones and devices may be used only:

  • During breaks
  • In approved staff areas
  • In a manner that does not disrupt operations
  • In compliance with safety and sanitation rules

Photos, videos, or recordings inside the restaurant are prohibited unless specifically authorized by THE COMPANY for business use. Unauthorized recording of coworkers, guests, or work areas is strictly prohibited.

 

Social Media and Online Activity

Team Members may not use confidential Company information, guest information, or coworker information on social media. Team Members must avoid:

  • Posting negative or harmful content about coworkers, guests, or THE COMPANY
  • Revealing sensitive operational details or security information
  • Representing themselves online as speaking on behalf of THE COMPANY
  • Posting photos or videos taken inside the restaurant without authorization

Team Members remain free to discuss wages, hours, and working conditions as permitted under the NLRA.

 

Reporting Concerns

Any Team Member who believes their privacy has been violated or observes inappropriate personal activities affecting the workplace should report concerns through the Complaint/Incident Reporting Form. Reports will be reviewed promptly and handled confidentially to the extent possible.

 

No Retaliation

THE COMPANY strictly prohibits retaliation against any Team Member who makes a good-faith report regarding privacy concerns, inappropriate behavior, or violations of this Policy.

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