Province removes clean-shaven requirement for correctional peace officers

Apr 8, 2022 | 3:28 PM

Alberta is ditching its requirement that people applying to become correctional peace officers be clean-shaven.

The province says in a news release that applicants were required not to have facial hair so that respiratory masks would fit as tightly as possible. Correctional peace officers use respiratory protective equipment to prevent or mitigate the risk of exposure to highly toxic substances.

New masks are designed to accommodate facial hair, and allow officers, regardless of religion or medical requirements, to complete their duties in a safe manner.

Observant Sikhs maintain uncut hair (kesh) as an article of faith so for many Sikh men the requirement to be clean-shaven is incompatible with their faith.

Province removes clean-shaven requirement for correctional peace officers

Pro Tips