Posted By Chris J Adams Hi All I know that full beards are a no go so far as breathing apparatus is concerned, and I seem to remember that this is an exemption from Racial Descrimination law, but where can I find this info - case law etc?? Chris

Posted By Frank Hallett Hi Chris Whilst there is a specific derogation for Sikhs [as the wearing of turbans by Sikhs is a very specific religious matter] in the "Hard Hat" Regs, I am not aware of any other derogation; especially for the wearing of RPE. This despite the beard also having religious significance for Sikhs! There are several basic principles to be addressed when considering the use of close fitting RPE and BS4275 and HS[G]53 deal with them all between them. Facial hair is only one of the issues; there are several others of equal importance - not least that of proper selection and effective training. The essential for close-fitting RPE is that there should be nothing that interferes with the face-mask seal on the face; so for a full face-mask user, a moustache that extended to the lower jaw-line could be acceptable from a technical point of view. However, if you're providing half-masks such as are prevalent in France, then even the most modest moustache would not be acceptable. Even hair that extends horizontally from the eyebrows can also adversely affect the seal, even without any other facial hair to consider. Be aware also that even a wearer with alopeocia [where's the damn spell-check?] could still fail to achieve a sufficiently effective face seal because they have the wrong shape or size of face!! This is but one of the reasons why Face-fit testing is absolutely essential when providing close-fitting RPE. Loose-fitting RPE requires a different set of considerations! I shall stop now as I think that I've answered the actual question; as those who know me well are very aware that I can bore for England on this and associated topics! If anyone requires any further detail or assistance feel able to contact me direct; this is a topic in which I have considerable experience. Frank Hallett

Posted By Kinnikin The positive pressure hoods are suitable for bearded personnel. Air inlet can either be filtered in the enclosure of confined space are an air line can be fed to them from outside the enclosure. As long as positive pressure is maintained there should be no problems. The only issues with beards and face fits etc are when a tight fit is required. The positive pressure hoods are fine. I know the question is about BA but in the absence of a definition of BA in this thread I thought I might just chip in with this. 8o)

Posted By Paul Leadbetter Chris Go for it! You could be the one to set a legal precedent! Paul