Big changes are coming to the Plano Police Department. A temporary "special order" policy will allow police and detention officers to grow well-groomed beards. And, the new order is just in time for no-shave November.
According to Public Information Officer Jennifer Chapman, the temporary policy will be in effect for one year and will then be reassessed in late 2025 to ensure it supports officers' respiratory health and maintains a professional appearance. The department provides full-face respirators, and both OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommend that employees with beards avoid using these respirators, as facial hair can prevent an effective seal.
“We have implemented a policy that allows our officers to grow well-groomed beards, reflecting our commitment to professionalism and the evolving needs of our personnel,” Chapman told Local Profile. “This change aims to foster camaraderie and individuality while maintaining the high standards of excellence associated with the Plano Police Department.”
Although some individuals with beards may achieve a satisfactory seal during testing, daily beard growth can compromise this over time. Therefore, officers with beards must be prepared to shave while on duty if a situation arises that requires the use of respiratory protection. This policy aims to safeguard the health and readiness of all personnel when respiratory protection is needed.
“We understand change can be difficult, but we believe it's important to embrace new traditions that foster camaraderie and individuality within our department,” a statement from the police department said on Facebook. “These traditions symbolize our commitment to adapting and evolving as a department.”
As the department transitions into this modified policy period, it reminds all personnel that maintaining officers' professional appearance will remain a priority.
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