We are a printer of (low risk) food packaging material. Hairnets and beardcovers have been in place for several years and no auditor has ever questioned this. However, personnel have recently begun questioning inconsistency in the use of beard covers. We do not require mustaches to be covered (mainly because the SQF requirement does not specify it), however some people feel that a small 'soul patch' or tightly trimmed beard does not require a cover. Others have argued they may miss a few days shaving and get a stubble that is not considered a beard. This is now being challenged.
Does anyone have any guidance regarding acceptable beard length in a low risk, non-food handling
environment?