When are the doors required to be locked during business hours?

The requirement to lock the doors before store opening time is grounded in the need to ensure the safety and security of both employees and customers. Locking the doors before the official opening hour helps to prevent unauthorized access, thereby reducing the risk of potential theft or incidents that could compromise the safety of individuals in the store.

This procedure is part of standard operating protocols meant to establish a secure environment where employees can prepare for the day without the pressure of early customers arriving. It allows the team to ensure that everything is in order and ready to serve customers immediately upon opening.

In contrast, locking the doors only after the last customer leaves or during breaks does not provide the same level of preventative security. Additionally, leaving it at the manager's discretion introduces variability, which can lead to inconsistencies in security practices and potentially expose the store to risks. By mandating that doors be locked before opening, Panda Express sets a clear and uniform standard that promotes safety and security across all locations.