THIS DAWN — Wendy’s Restaurant has terminated the employment of a Somali national after a customer filmed her working barefoot behind the counter.
The incident occurred earlier this week at an undisclosed Wendy’s location in the United States.
The incident sparked widespread outrage and raising new concerns about food-safety compliance in fast-food restaurants.
According to eyewitnesses, a customer noticed the female employee walking and working with no shoes on while handling food and moving between the service area and the kitchen.
The customer confronted her and recorded the exchange, later posting the clip online.
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, amassing thousands of views and prompting intense reactions from users.
Some users called the behaviour “unsanitary,” “unsafe,” and “unacceptable for any food establishment.”
In the video, the employee reportedly explained that she had been on a long shift and removed her shoes due to discomfort.
The customer, however, insisted that the matter be reported to management.
The footage captured clear images of her bare feet on the restaurant floor, further fuelling public criticism.
Wendy’s management responds
Wendy’s corporate office responded swiftly after the video began trending, releasing a statement confirming that the worker had been dismissed.
The company emphasised that the behaviour violated strict health-and-safety protocols that all employees are required to follow.
“This conduct does not reflect our standards or expectations,” the statement read.
“Food safety remains our highest priority, and we take immediate action whenever policies are not adhered to.
“The employee involved is no longer with the company, and additional training has been provided to staff at the location.”
Local health officials have not yet announced whether the restaurant will face fines or inspections resulting from the incident.
Experts, though, say working without footwear in a commercial kitchen is a clear violation of food-handling regulations.
Community reactions have been mixed.
While many applauded Wendy’s for acting quickly, others expressed sympathy for the fired worker.
This has raised questions about working conditions, long hours, and footwear policies for low-wage employees.
As the video continues to circulate, Wendy’s has reiterated its commitment to maintaining clean, safe, and sanitary environments in all of its restaurants nationwide.
