KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Restaurants are now open for dine-in customers, but some still feel more comfortable with drive-thru and carryout options.
The 41 Action News I-Team stopped by several chains in the metro and noticed the use of masks at these businesses varies.
Some employees at drive-thru windows had masks on but pulled down, while others weren't wearing them at all.
According to the KCMO Health Department, those employees are not required to wear face coverings.
"The amount of time that somebody is exposed to someone as they go through a drive-thru window is usually pretty short," Dr. Rex Archer explained.
He added that ventilation from an open window offers protection, but wearing a mask is still encouraged.
Andy's Frozen Custard on Westport Road was one of the locations where we found on two separate occasions that employees had no facial coverings.
Despite the fact masks are not required, the company said it had placed an order for 1,000+ masks to provide to employees who interact with customers.
"Procuring these functional masks in large quantities has indeed been quite challenging, but we have also secured a supply of temporary masks, which all customer-facing employees at Kansas City stores are now wearing since your last visit," a spokesperson wrote to 41 Action News.
Andy's Frozen Custard is also installing plexiglass shields at drive-thru and walk-up windows.
McDonald's also added the protective barriers as part of its response to COVID-19.
Meanwhile, Taco Bell is emphasizing its contactless drive-thru service . When the 41 Action News I-Team drove through, an employee held a card reader outside the window for us to insert a card.
Burger King instituted similar precautions, with a tray or bin being used to collect payment and deliver orders.
The overarching rule for restaurants is that employees must wear masks in areas that are open to the public, so your waiter should be wearing one if you sit down for service.
The best way to report violations of rules is through 311. The health department said there have been about 50 complaints since restaurants reopened.
