Can an Employer Make You Shave? Grooming Standards for Men in Canada

Workplace grooming standards can be a source of confusion and even controversy. One of the most common questions many men face in Canada is whether an employer can require them to shave. While workplace policies vary by industry and employer, several factors, including health and safety regulations, human rights, and grooming policy compliance, play a role in determining what grooming requirements are legally enforceable.

Let’s explore the various aspects of workplace grooming policies, and what your employee rights are in Canada.

Health and Safety Regulations

In certain industries, occupational health and safety takes precedence, and shaving or maintaining facial hair to a particular standard may be required. Industries like construction, oil and gas, or manufacturing often mandate the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators or gas masks, which need a tight seal against the skin to function properly. Facial hair, particularly beards, can interfere with the seal, reducing the PPE's effectiveness and putting employees at risk.

WorkSafeBC and other provincial safety regulators across Canada may allow employers to enforce strict grooming standards to ensure compliance with workplace safety standards. If facial hair interferes with critical safety equipment, employers are justified in mandating shaving as a requirement to protect employees from workplace hazards.

Workplace Grooming Standards

Employers generally have the right to set workplace appearance standards, including grooming policies, especially if they align with business needs or customer-facing roles. For instance, companies in the hospitality, food services, or retail industries may require employees to maintain a clean-shaven appearance or follow specific grooming guidelines to reflect the company’s brand or present a professional image to customers.

However, it is essential that grooming standards be clearly outlined in employee handbooks or contracts and applied consistently to avoid potential discrimination issues. This ensures that employees understand the grooming policy expectations upfront.

Religious or Medical Exemptions

While employers can impose certain grooming standards, Canadian law protects employees from discrimination based on religion or disability. If facial hair is part of an employee’s religious practice or is medically necessary, employers are required to make reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship for the business.

For instance, if an employee's religion requires them to maintain a beard, or if they have a medical condition (such as folliculitis) that prevents them from shaving, the employer must explore alternatives. This could include providing specialized PPE (e.g., respirators designed for individuals with facial hair) or adjusting the grooming policy on a case-by-case basis.

Human Rights Legislation in Canada

Under the Canadian Human Rights Act and provincial human rights codes, employers cannot discriminate against employees based on protected grounds, including religion, gender, and disability. If an employee feels that a grooming policy is discriminatory, they can file a complaint with their provincial or territorial human rights commission.

Balancing Employer Needs and Employee Rights

While an employer in Canada can, in certain situations, require men to shave—particularly for health and safety reasons—employees also have rights. If grooming requirements are related to religion or medical conditions, employers must make reasonable accommodations. It's crucial for both employers and employees to understand the balance between workplace standards and individual rights.

If you’re ever unsure about the legality of a grooming policy, consulting your HR department or seeking advice from a legal professional can help ensure your rights are protected.