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QUESTION: Would anyone be willing to share their policy on piercings and tattoos? We have a fairly conservative policy and are looking to expand it. Our policy regarding tattoos and piercings was very conservative until this year. Previously we said all tattoos had to be covered while on the clock. We found that in today’s society that severely limited our employee pool and prevented us from hiring some very capable staff. Our policy now reads that a staff may have a visible tattoo if it is not considered offensive to any one population. Our policy on piercings remains the same for safety. One pair of stud earrings while working with clients. During trainings and meetings etc. staff may wear piercings of their choice. We don’t have anything specific to that. We do review potential dangers when review crisis intervention such as someone intentionally or unintentionally pulling them out. “When at work employees must dress and be groomed in a positive, professional image to model generally accepted standards for persons served. Employees must dress in ways that are reflective of this professionalism with consideration given to employees’ duties. Departments may establish specific guidelines. Supervisors are responsible for the appearance and cleanliness of their employees and will educate, counsel, and discipline as necessary to maintain reasonable standards of appearance. At its discretion, management may determine that particular attire is inappropriate, inform you of this, and instruct you to change inappropriate attire. If you are in doubt about whether any attire is appropriate, talk to your supervisor or Human Resources before wearing it to work.” We took this approach after finding we were not enforcing a more conservative dress code. No clothing or visible tattoos with obscene language or graphics will be permitted. 7. Employees should remove any body piercing, hanging jewelry (ex: hanging necklaces, dangling earrings, loose bracelets, ankle bracelets or watches, etc.), or other accessories worn on the body during work hours that pose risk of injury or safety concerns for a staff member. Examples of reasons for removal include: grabbing, tugging or pulling by a person receiving services; interference with machinery used on the job; etc. Employees will have the option of covering up any piercing that is not removed. JRDS is not responsible for the loss of or damage to these items if the employee chooses to leave them on during work time. Direct Care Staff must cover potentially offensive tattoos and remove body piercings except for a single set of stud earrings while on the worksite or while conducting company business. Employees who have religious reasons for their tattoos or piercings should consult with Human Resources for guidance about following this policy. This article was shared in the thought that it might be of interest regarding the question around tattoos. Mayo Clinic to allow physicians, nurses to show tattoos in 2018 This information is a compilation of suggestions, ideas, and opinions shared by INARF Members in response to the featured question. This information should not be considered official interpretation or guidance of State or Federal Policy. Additionally, statements within this document do not necessarily reflect an official position or opinion of INARF.