Beard Liberation Front
27th Februar
Contact Keith Flett 07803 167266
Concerns that pogonophobia may be an element in coronavirus face mask/beard guidance
The Beard Liberation Front, the informal network of beard wearers, that campaigns on irrational prejudice against the hirsute , pogonophobia, has raised concerns about guidance being issued on face masks and the coronavirus.
US advice that suggests most people with beards should shave has rightly been dismissed as having no sensible intent.
However NHS advice to front-line care workers (example below) deserves much more serious consideration.
Where NHS workers are dealing with cases of infection face masks may well be a necessity. While a 2018 study of Canadian pilots demonstrated that there are now masks that will fit safely with a beard, if NHS units do not have supplies of such masks then shaving may be sensible.
However a focus purely on beards does suggest that behind it lies an element of pogonophobia. It is not just a beard but a range of hair styles that can cause issues with masks. Where medically required a clean shaven face and short hair would seem more appropriate.
BLF Organiser Keith Flett said, we have always accepted that in certain circumstances it may be necessary to shave the beard temporarily. It will after all grow back
BBC Report 27th February
hospital bosses at Southampton University NHS Trust in the UK have sent a mass email to staff with the image attached, telling about the “known problem” with ill-fitting masks on hairy faces.
The email from medical director Derek Sandeman says facial hair “compromises the ability to protect any individual through a mask”.
He adds: “I am writing to ask those who do not have a strong cultural or religious reason for a beard and who are working in at-risk areas to consider shaving.
“I recognise for some this is a big ask, that beards are so popular at present. However I do believe this is the right thing to do.”
Canadian pilots beard/mask study
https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/vancouver-news/air-canada-pilot-beards-1939787
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