In an extract from Construction Enquirer:

Contractors have been told that they may have to carry out facial inspections before work can commence due to a new safety campaign!!!

HSE inspectors are warning companies that stubble and beards dramatically reduce the effectiveness of face masks designed to keep out dangerous silica dust.  The HSE Guidance states that “even the smallest growth of stubble can reduce the effectiveness of  respiratory protective equipment.”

This in real terms means that beards and stubble are now a no-no on a building site and that all workers must pass the smoothness test before being permitted to work.  Perhaps they should be providing disposable razors at cafes as well as the obligatory mugs of tea and bacon rolls.