Are visors an acceptable hair restraint?

A hairnet or a visor can be used as long as it effectively restrains the hair. The U.S. Food Code (2005), which is the basis for the standards outlined in 2-4 and 2-5 of the NC School HACCP Plan, states that food employees shall wear hair restraints -- such as hats, hair coverings or nets, beard restraints, and clothing that covers body hair -- that are worn to effectively keep their hair from contacting exposed food. The NC Foodservice Rules specifically spells out what is effective hair restraint -- Effective hair restraints, such as hairnets, caps, or wrap around visors shall be worn by employees engaged in the preparation or handling of food to prevent the contamination of food or food contact surfaces. Wigs and hairspray do not constitute compliance with this Rule. This Rule does not apply to employees such as counter staff who only serve beverages and wrapped or packaged foods, hosts, hostesses and wait staff if they present a minimal risk of contaminating exposed food.

The standards in the NC School HACCP Plan are minimum standards. If the Child Nutrition Director would like to establish a higher standard, such as requiring that all workers wear hair nets, he/she can do so. The important thing is to make sure that whatever method is used that it effectively restrains the hair.

Consumers are particularly sensitive to food contaminated by hair. Hair can be both a direct and indirect vehicle of contamination. Food workers might contaminate their hands when they touch their hair. A hair restraint keeps dislodged hair from ending up in the food and may deter employees from touching their hair