Hi Patrick,

They must be clean shaven at the areas of contact of the respirator.  OSHA has a chart of approved and unapproved facial hair styles.  Here is the link:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/pdfs/FacialHairWmask11282017-508.pdf

Rachel Leibu, MD, MBA, MS, FACOEM

Medical Director Occupational Medicine Services

Atlantic Health System

Clinical Assistant Professor, Sidney Kimmel Medical College

at Thomas Jefferson University

Office 973-829-4277

Cell 973-886-6708

From: MCOH-EH <mcoh-eh-bounces+rachel.leibu=atlantichealth.org@mylist.net> On Behalf Of McKenna, Patrick via MCOH-EH
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Cc: McKenna, Patrick <Patrick.McKenna@nationwidechildrens.org>
Subject: [MCOH-EH] Facial hair and respirators

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Just taking an informal survey of the group to inquire about what policies are out there regarding facial hair for staff who might require using a respirator. 

Does your institution require that staff members be clean shaven if they might need to use a respirator? 

What is the policy around allowing the use of an N95 alternative, such as a PAPR?

Thanks!

Patrick McKenna, DO MPH FACOEM

Employee Health Medical Director

Nationwide Children’s Hospital

700 Children’s Drive Room  A1034

Columbus, OH 43205-2664

Office: 614-355-4135