The Fair Work Commission ruled an employer can require workers to shave their moustaches or beards for safety reasons.
TasWater argued successfully that its rule mandating clean-shaven faces for certain workers wearing respiratory protective equipment was lawful and reasonable. The commission heard that the rule was necessary due to the risk of inhaling hazardous materials like asbestos and silica.
The ruling emphasized that the requirement was not burdensome considering the potential harm of inhaling these substances. TasWater's revised procedure was found to be ‘rational, appropriate, and in the best interests of its employees' safety’.
