Current Dress Regs

[Quirky]

Updated

Ref: CAF Dress instructions | Section 2 Appearance - Canada.ca PRINCIPLES While ceremonial standards may apply in certain circumstance, the CAF policy on appearance is premised on four principles: safety, operational effectiveness, inclusion, and a reflection of changing societal norms. These principles, listed in priority, are defined as

a. Safety. All members of the CAF are responsible to ensure that the safety of personnel is not compromised.
b. Operational effectiveness. At no time should clothing or personal appearance adversely affect the operational capability of a CAF member or their team.
c. Inclusion. The practice of providing equal access to opportunities and resources, where all members have a sense of belonging and are encouraged to be their authentic selves. Leaders are to treat with dignity and respect to all personnel under their care. In some cases, additional accommodations may be needed. Specific accommodations in respect of this policy are regulated under DAOD 5516-3.d. Societal Norms.

The CAF is a microcosm of Canadian society. As much as is possible, policies applying to CAF members, including standards of dress, should reflect the changing norms in Canadian society. This will welcome a more diverse group of CAF members, which will benefit the CAF as diversity is a known force multiplier.

HAIR a. Hair shall not prevent the proper wear of a military headdress or protective equipment. Hair must be worn so that without headdress the member’s face is visible. Full or partial shaving of hair on the head is permitted. Colouring of hair is permitted. The wearing of wigs, locks, or hair extensions is permitted. Long hair is permitted but must be secured accordingly when extending below the top/ridge of the shoulder in such a manner to prevent hair from falling in or covering the face when leaning forward. Acceptable accessories to secure hair include, but are not limited to, clips, barrettes, bobby pins, fabric elastics, elastic bands, and hair nets.
b. In cases where Safety and/or Operational effectiveness may be compromised, or where a hairstyle is associated with a cultural, religious or spiritual belief that does not align with this policy, members are to refer to DAOD 5516-3 and section 3 of this chapter.
c. Facial Hair. All styles of facial hair and sideburns are authorized. Facial hair may be braided/ponytail style and coloured. Accessories to secure facial hair include but are not limited to: barrettes, bobby pins, fabric elastics, elastic bands, and hair nets. Commanders of commands, task force commanders and commanding officers retain the right to order restrictions on the wearing of a facial hair and sideburns to meet national regulations such as DAOD 5021-1, Respiratory Protection or other operational requirements.

SPECIFIC GUIDANCE FOR CEREMONIAL OCCASIONS WHILE WEARING DRESS ORDER #1The following amplification is provided for all CAF members when in all Ceremonial orders of dress (No 1):

a. Footwear will be worn as per environment/regiment/branch and corps dress instructions.
b. Over garments will be worn as per environment/regiment/branch and corps dress instructions. Medals are not to be worn on over garments (parka, gabardine, and windbreaker).
c. Hair that extends below the service dress jacket collar shall be secured in one of the following styles: 1. In a bun; or 2. A single braid; or 3. Double braids centred to the back; or 4. Multi braids, or locks, be pulled back to the centre of the back or equally positioned along the shoulder blades and secured; or 5. When hairstyle, or hair type, does not allow a member to adopt one of the aforementioned hairstyles, member must discuss with the Chain of Command to find a hairstyle that can be secured accordingly.

 

[dimsum]

Updated

Ref: CAF Dress instructions | Section 2 Appearance - Canada.ca PRINCIPLES While ceremonial standards may apply in certain circumstance, the CAF policy on appearance is premised on four principles: safety, operational effectiveness, inclusion, and a reflection of changing societal norms. These principles, listed in priority, are defined as

a. Safety. All members of the CAF are responsible to ensure that the safety of personnel is not compromised.
b. Operational effectiveness. At no time should clothing or personal appearance adversely affect the operational capability of a CAF member or their team.
c. Inclusion. The practice of providing equal access to opportunities and resources, where all members have a sense of belonging and are encouraged to be their authentic selves. Leaders are to treat with dignity and respect to all personnel under their care. In some cases, additional accommodations may be needed. Specific accommodations in respect of this policy are regulated under DAOD 5516-3.d. Societal Norms.

The CAF is a microcosm of Canadian society. As much as is possible, policies applying to CAF members, including standards of dress, should reflect the changing norms in Canadian society. This will welcome a more diverse group of CAF members, which will benefit the CAF as diversity is a known force multiplier.

HAIR a. Hair shall not prevent the proper wear of a military headdress or protective equipment. Hair must be worn so that without headdress the member’s face is visible. Full or partial shaving of hair on the head is permitted. Colouring of hair is permitted. The wearing of wigs, locks, or hair extensions is permitted. Long hair is permitted but must be secured accordingly when extending below the top/ridge of the shoulder in such a manner to prevent hair from falling in or covering the face when leaning forward. Acceptable accessories to secure hair include, but are not limited to, clips, barrettes, bobby pins, fabric elastics, elastic bands, and hair nets.
b. In cases where Safety and/or Operational effectiveness may be compromised, or where a hairstyle is associated with a cultural, religious or spiritual belief that does not align with this policy, members are to refer to DAOD 5516-3 and section 3 of this chapter.
c. Facial Hair. All styles of facial hair and sideburns are authorized. Facial hair may be braided/ponytail style and coloured. Accessories to secure facial hair include but are not limited to: barrettes, bobby pins, fabric elastics, elastic bands, and hair nets. Commanders of commands, task force commanders and commanding officers retain the right to order restrictions on the wearing of a facial hair and sideburns to meet national regulations such as DAOD 5021-1, Respiratory Protection or other operational requirements.

SPECIFIC GUIDANCE FOR CEREMONIAL OCCASIONS WHILE WEARING DRESS ORDER #1The following amplification is provided for all CAF members when in all Ceremonial orders of dress (No 1):

a. Footwear will be worn as per environment/regiment/branch and corps dress instructions.
b. Over garments will be worn as per environment/regiment/branch and corps dress instructions. Medals are not to be worn on over garments (parka, gabardine, and windbreaker).
c. Hair that extends below the service dress jacket collar shall be secured in one of the following styles: 1. In a bun; or 2. A single braid; or 3. Double braids centred to the back; or 4. Multi braids, or locks, be pulled back to the centre of the back or equally positioned along the shoulder blades and secured; or 5. When hairstyle, or hair type, does not allow a member to adopt one of the aforementioned hairstyles, member must discuss with the Chain of Command to find a hairstyle that can be secured accordingly.

So, either I missed it while reading or the only change is that in ceremonies, hair that would extend below the collar has to be put up in a bun, braid, or similar.

Nothing about changes to beards, hair colour, etc.

 

[Remius]

So, either I missed it while reading or the only change is that in ceremonies, hair that would extend below the collar has to be put up in a bun, braid, or similar.

Nothing about changes to beards, hair colour, etc.

Is that the official update? Has it been disseminated? Because it looks like the original instruction.

 

[rmc_wannabe]

Is that the official update? Has it been disseminated? Because it looks like the original instruction.

Has not been disseminated. CMP is in the final stages of staff work. Should be out by end of month.

Source: the latest CUB I attended.

 

[Remius]

Has not been disseminated. CMP is in the final stages of staff work. Should be out by end of month.

Source: the latest CUB I attended.

Right. Matches what I’ve heard as well.

 

[SupersonicMax]

Right. Matches what I’ve heard as well.

I have heard from a very good source that it may be a bit later to ensure the changes and their implementation are better thought out. The implementation of the last update (or lack thereof) is the reason there is a perception we need to update this policy.

 

[Navy_Pete]

It's nice they specifically mention the Respiratory protection program; that's the one that includes the specific direction for being clean shaven for fire fighting masks and what is very sporadically enforced. Some units actually enforce it and have everyone clean shaven without a med chit, others don't even enforce it for duty watches.

Now just need the RCN to actually enforce it, think it won't really happen until there is a different CRCN.

 

[OldSolduer]

Now just need the RCN to actually enforce it, think it won't really happen until there is a different CRCN.

From what I can glean from these threads and guys I know it seemed for a while the whole beard thing etc "its because the troops want it". Sometimes the troops don't get what they want...and this should have been one.

 

[Navy_Pete]

From what I can glean from these threads and guys I know it seemed for a while the whole beard thing etc "its because the troops want it". Sometimes the troops don't get what they want...and this should have been one.

I think it's ignoring the safety and operational requirement bit that is the issue but I also don't think having to run a comb through hair and beards and requiring it to look neat is unreasonable.

Hopefully this brings a bit of sanity back, but doesn't really change that we're currently eating a budget cut that will directly impact operations and training now, and continue to hurt things in the future as it always takes a while to catch back up, even if the taps get wide open.

 

[daftandbarmy]

It's nice they specifically mention the Respiratory protection program; that's the one that includes the specific direction for being clean shaven for fire fighting masks and what is very sporadically enforced. Some units actually enforce it and have everyone clean shaven without a med chit, others don't even enforce it for duty watches.

Now just need the RCN to actually enforce it, think it won't really happen until there is a different CRCN people die.

Sadly, probably a little more accurate.

 

[Kilted]

Updated

Ref: CAF Dress instructions | Section 2 Appearance - Canada.ca PRINCIPLES While ceremonial standards may apply in certain circumstance, the CAF policy on appearance is premised on four principles: safety, operational effectiveness, inclusion, and a reflection of changing societal norms. These principles, listed in priority, are defined as

a. Safety. All members of the CAF are responsible to ensure that the safety of personnel is not compromised.
b. Operational effectiveness. At no time should clothing or personal appearance adversely affect the operational capability of a CAF member or their team.
c. Inclusion. The practice of providing equal access to opportunities and resources, where all members have a sense of belonging and are encouraged to be their authentic selves. Leaders are to treat with dignity and respect to all personnel under their care. In some cases, additional accommodations may be needed. Specific accommodations in respect of this policy are regulated under DAOD 5516-3.d. Societal Norms.

The CAF is a microcosm of Canadian society. As much as is possible, policies applying to CAF members, including standards of dress, should reflect the changing norms in Canadian society. This will welcome a more diverse group of CAF members, which will benefit the CAF as diversity is a known force multiplier.

HAIR a. Hair shall not prevent the proper wear of a military headdress or protective equipment. Hair must be worn so that without headdress the member’s face is visible. Full or partial shaving of hair on the head is permitted. Colouring of hair is permitted. The wearing of wigs, locks, or hair extensions is permitted. Long hair is permitted but must be secured accordingly when extending below the top/ridge of the shoulder in such a manner to prevent hair from falling in or covering the face when leaning forward. Acceptable accessories to secure hair include, but are not limited to, clips, barrettes, bobby pins, fabric elastics, elastic bands, and hair nets.
b. In cases where Safety and/or Operational effectiveness may be compromised, or where a hairstyle is associated with a cultural, religious or spiritual belief that does not align with this policy, members are to refer to DAOD 5516-3 and section 3 of this chapter.
c. Facial Hair. All styles of facial hair and sideburns are authorized. Facial hair may be braided/ponytail style and coloured. Accessories to secure facial hair include but are not limited to: barrettes, bobby pins, fabric elastics, elastic bands, and hair nets. Commanders of commands, task force commanders and commanding officers retain the right to order restrictions on the wearing of a facial hair and sideburns to meet national regulations such as DAOD 5021-1, Respiratory Protection or other operational requirements.

SPECIFIC GUIDANCE FOR CEREMONIAL OCCASIONS WHILE WEARING DRESS ORDER #1The following amplification is provided for all CAF members when in all Ceremonial orders of dress (No 1):

a. Footwear will be worn as per environment/regiment/branch and corps dress instructions.
b. Over garments will be worn as per environment/regiment/branch and corps dress instructions. Medals are not to be worn on over garments (parka, gabardine, and windbreaker).
c. Hair that extends below the service dress jacket collar shall be secured in one of the following styles: 1. In a bun; or 2. A single braid; or 3. Double braids centred to the back; or 4. Multi braids, or locks, be pulled back to the centre of the back or equally positioned along the shoulder blades and secured; or 5. When hairstyle, or hair type, does not allow a member to adopt one of the aforementioned hairstyles, member must discuss with the Chain of Command to find a hairstyle that can be secured accordingly.

So are there no actual changes?

 

[Ostrozac]

So are there no actual changes?

There is what is proported to be a draft version of the proposal floating around. Biggest changes I could see were a ban on hair in unnatural colours and that beard callipers are back, with a maximum bulk of facial hair of 2.5cm, slightly longer than the old 2018 BEARDFORGEN limit of 2cm. No mention of adjustments to tattoo policy.

 

[rmc_wannabe]

The draft changes were just posted to the hivemind on r/canadianforces.

The responses were about as butthurt as you'd expect.

 

[Stoker]

It's nice they specifically mention the Respiratory protection program; that's the one that includes the specific direction for being clean shaven for fire fighting masks and what is very sporadically enforced. Some units actually enforce it and have everyone clean shaven without a med chit, others don't even enforce it for duty watches.

Now just need the RCN to actually enforce it, think it won't really happen until there is a different CRCN.

A email just came out from the Fleet Chief about facial hair on ships. I assume to try and rein in the free for all that's going on. Reminding sailors to be clean shaven for fit testing and at the DC school as some apparently haven't been doing that. Facial hair fine as long as its not on the mask seal itself and bulk not affecting the mask cup. Apparently a message coming out to officially address everything.

 

[QV]

We need the popcorn emoji. This is going to be hilarious to watch unfold.

 

[Remius]

Word of this is getting out, as I’ve seen some previous hobos starting to attempt to fix their look as they except some delay of some sort of hammer to fall…too late for some i think

 

[Navy_Pete]

A email just came out from the Fleet Chief about facial hair on ships. I assume to try and rein in the free for all that's going on. Reminding sailors to be clean shaven for fit testing and at the DC school as some apparently haven't been doing that. Facial hair fine as long as its not on the mask seal itself and bulk not affecting the mask cup. Apparently a message coming out to officially address everything.

That's good news, only taken 2 years. I hope they realize the entire jawline is part of the sealing area, so basically leaves you with a stache and slightly longer sideburns, and maybe a soul patch.

 

[OldSolduer]

The draft changes were just posted to the hivemind on r/canadianforces.

The responses were about as butthurt as you'd expect.

So the guardhouse lawyers are out and about with "they can't do that!!!"

Yes yes they can do that....

 

[RocketRichard]

No handlebar moustaches? WTAF!

 

[PuckChaser]

I think we've beat that dead horse and can maybe get back on topic?