Issued / 7/1/10
Revised / NEW
Pages / 1
File Name: C:\Personnel Bulletins \PB48 – Sexual Harassment
STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES
SUBJECT: Tattoo and Body Piercings– Guidelines and Procedures
INTRODUCTION
A professional firefighter who doesn't take the time to maintain professional appearance presents the image of not being able to perform in a professional manner. If you look and behave like a highly trained and well-groomed professional, you will win the respect and honor of our
valued clients.
GUIDELINE
All members must not have any lewd or offensive indelible marks or
figures (tattoos) visible on any part of the body while wearing the
prescribed duty uniform and the physical training uniform. Lewd or offensive is defined as any tattoo that is extremist, indecent, sexist or racist. Extremist tattoos are those affiliated with, depicting or symbolizing extremist philosophies, organizations, or activities; those which advocate racial, gender, or ethnic hatred or intolerance; advocate, create or engage in illegal discrimination based on race, color, gender, ethnicity, religion, or national origin; or advocate violence or other unlawful means of depriving individuals rights under the U.S. Constitution or federal and state law. Indecent tattoos are those that are grossly offensive to modesty, decency, or propriety; shock the moral sense because of their vulgar, filthy or disgusting nature, or tendency to insight lustful thought; or tend reasonably to corrupt morals or incite libidinous thoughts. Sexist tattoos are those that advocate philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on gender, but that may not meet the same definition of "indecent". Racist tattoos are those that advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on race, ethnicity or nationalorigin. Also, excessive tattoos will not be exposed or visible while in uniform. Excessive is definedas any tattoo that exceeds 1/4 of the exposed body part and those above the collarbone and readily available when wearing an open collar uniform.
- Maintain complete coverage of the tattoos using current uniform items (e.g. long-sleeved shirt or tee-shirt and pants).
GUIDELINE CONT.
All members are prohibited from attaching, affixing or displaying objects, articles jewelry or ornamentation to or through the ear , nose, tongue, or any exposed body part (includes visible through the uniform) . EXCEPTION: Women are authorized to wear one small spherical, conservative, diamond, gold, white pearl, or silver pierced, or clip earring per earlobe and the earring worn in each earlobe must match. Earring should fit tightly without extending below the earlobe.
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