Dress Code, PPE & Identification Policy

1. Purpose

Falcon Greencare is committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism, hygiene, and safety. This policy ensures that all staff present themselves appropriately, use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly, and are clearly identifiable while working in care settings, in line with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All employees, agency workers, and contractors
Staff working in care homes, supported living, and other healthcare environments

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

Falcon Greencare operates in line with:

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
The Care Quality Commission Fundamental Standards
Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) guidance

4. Policy Statement

Falcon Greencare requires all staff to:

Maintain a clean, professional appearance
Follow infection prevention and control standards
Wear appropriate PPE when required
Display valid identification at all times

5. Dress Code Standards

5.1 General Appearance

Staff must:

Be clean, tidy, and presentable at all times
Wear appropriate, professional clothing suitable for care work
Follow client-specific dress code policies

5.2 Clothing Requirements

Clothing must be clean, ironed, and in good condition
Uniforms (if provided) must be worn correctly
Clothing should allow safe movement and manual handling
No offensive logos or inappropriate slogans

5.3 Footwear

Closed-toe, low-heeled, non-slip shoes must be worn
Shoes must be clean and suitable for healthcare environments

6. Infection Control Requirements

6.1 Bare Below the Elbows

Staff must comply with “bare below the elbows” guidance:

No wrist watches or bracelets
Short, clean nails (no false nails or nail polish)
No long sleeves when delivering care

6.2 Hair and Personal Hygiene

Hair must be clean and tied back if long
Beards must be neat and tidy
Good personal hygiene must be maintained

7. Jewellery and Accessories

Minimal jewellery only (e.g. plain wedding band)
No large earrings, necklaces, or facial piercings that pose a risk
No dangling items that may cause injury or infection risk

8. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

8.1 Use of PPE

Staff must:

Wear appropriate PPE as required by the care setting
Follow infection control procedures at all times

8.2 Types of PPE

This may include:

Gloves
Aprons
Masks/face coverings
Eye protection (where required)

8.3 Responsibilities

PPE must be used correctly and disposed of safely
Staff must report any shortages or issues immediately
PPE must be worn in accordance with training and guidelines

9. Identification (ID)

9.1 ID Requirements

All staff must:

Wear a valid Falcon Greencare ID badge at all times while on duty
Ensure ID is visible and clearly displayed

9.2 Lost or Missing ID

Lost ID badges must be reported immediately
Replacement ID must be obtained before returning to work

10. Professional Image

Staff represent Falcon Greencare at all times and must:

Maintain a professional appearance
Act in a way that promotes trust and confidence
Respect the standards of each care setting

11. Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

Being removed from placement
Disciplinary action
Termination of employment or contract

12. Responsibilities

12.1 Management

Management is responsible for:

Communicating this policy
Monitoring compliance
Taking appropriate action when necessary

12.2 Staff