Chapter 7 Personal Appearance And Attire PDF

CHAPTER 7 – PERSONAL APPEARANCE AND ATTIRE REV. APRIL 15, 2014 7.01 GENERAL All employees are expected to maintain a manner of dress and grooming as required in a conservative businesslike environment. It will be the duty of all employees of the Sheriff’s Office to present a professional appearan...

CHAPTER 7 – PERSONAL APPEARANCE AND ATTIRE REV. APRIL 15, 2014 7.01 GENERAL All employees are expected to maintain a manner of dress and grooming as required in a conservative businesslike environment. It will be the duty of all employees of the Sheriff’s Office to present a professional appearance and keep themselves in a clean and sanitary condition. 7.02 POLICY It is the policy of the Sheriff’s Office to provide dress and appearance guidelines to Sheriff’s Deputies and civilian employees to promote a professional image and working atmosphere. All employees of the Sheriff’s Office will observe these guidelines regardless of rank or position. 7.03 DEFINITIONS A. Conservative: Moderate; traditionally acceptable. B. Professional: Characteristically of a person engaged in a profession. C. Office Setting: Place in which services, clerical work, and professional duties are conducted. D. Moderate: Not given to extremes or excesses. E. Non-uniformed personnel: Civilian employees and commissioned personnel who do not wear a uniform in the performance of their duties. F. Uniformed Personnel: Detention and Law Enforcement deputies required to wear a uniform in the performance of their duties. 7.04 GUIDELINES FOR UNIFORMED PERSONNEL A. Employees of the Sheriff’s Office are personally obligated and responsible for ensuring their personal appearance projects a professional image. Overall, all uniforms will be kept as neat and clean as possible; leather accessories will be kept dyed and clean; nylon accessories will be clean and free of dirt and debris; shoes/boots shall be clean and polished with at least a “brush shine;” metal parts will be shined; hats will be kept clean and blocked, and weapons and handcuffs will be clean and in serviceable condition at all times. B. Deputies and employees authorized to wear other than the standard uniform or attire and for whom an exception has been requested and approved are also bound by this policy. Effective date April 30, 2014 64 7.05 UNIFORM ITEMS AND SPECIFICATIONS STANDARD UNIFORMS: CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C Dress uniform used during daily A ‘full color’ utility uniform option Tactical utility uniform option for operations. for daily operations. Varies chiefly daily operations. Varies chiefly from from the Class A by having the Class B by having subdued embroidered badge and name patches and rank stripes and cargo plates versus metal and cargo pockets on each leg. pockets on each leg. SHIRT Dark Navy Dark Navy Dark Navy 100% polyester or a polyester/wool 100% polyester or a polyester/wool 100% polyester or a polyester/wool blend with military creases blend with military creases blend with military creases Epaulets - No trim Epaulets - No trim Epaulets - No trim Pockets - Two scalloped flap Pockets - Two scalloped flap Pockets - Two scalloped flap bellowed breast pockets bellowed breast pockets bellowed breast pockets Patches - Color Patches - Color Patches - Subdued Buttons - Metal, Texas Star on Buttons - Melamine Buttons - Melamine epaulets and breast pocket - Color Badge - Embroidered with badge Badge - Embroidered with badge will be gold for Sgts. and above, all number - Color will be gold for Sgts. number - Subdued others silver. and above, all others silver. Nameplate - Embroidered - Badge - Metal Nameplate - Embroidered - Color Subdued. Nameplate - Metal will be gold for Sgts. and above, all Nametapes not authorized. Collar Rank - Metal others silver. Collar Rank – Embroidered - Stripes - Color will be gold for Sgts. Nametapes not authorized. Subdued and above, all others silver. Collar Rank - Embroidered - Color Stripes - Subdued Tie - (OPTIONAL) Dark Navy worn Stripes - Color will be gold for Sgts. Tie - No tie is worn with the utility only with long sleeve shirts and above, silver for all others uniform Service Stars/Bar - (OPTIONAL) Tie - No tie is worn with the utility Service Stars/Bar - (OPTIONAL) Color: Gold for Sgt, silver for all uniform Subdued if worn others Service Stars/Bar - (OPTIONAL) Accoutrements - (OPTIONAL) Accoutrements - (OPTIONAL) Metal Color will be gold for Sgts. and Embroidered - Subdued only above, silver for all others Accoutrements - (OPTIONAL) Embroidered - if worn shall correspond to badge color TROUSERS Dark Navy 4-pocket Dark Navy 4 or 6-pocket Dark Navy 4 or 6-pocket 100% polyester or a polyester/wool 100% polyester or a polyester/wool 100% polyester or a polyester/wool blend blend blend Straight leg, no stripe, no cargo Straight leg, no stripe, cargo pockets Straight leg, no stripe, cargo pockets pockets. on each leg. on each leg (4 or 6-pocket) Motor Unit - Dark Navy, four pocket Cargo Pocket flaps will be pointed or Cargo Pocket flaps will be pointed or Riding Britches. Refer to SOP triangular. triangular. Flashlight pockets - optional. Flashlight pockets - Optional. Motor Unit – Dark Navy, 4 pocket Motor Unit – Dark Navy, 4 pocket Riding Britches. Refer to SOP Riding Britches. Refer to SOP Effective date April 30, 2014 65 SPECIALTY UNIFORMS: HONOR GUARD BIKE UNIFORM JAIL INDUSTRIES Worn by the Sheriff’s Honor Guard Uniform worn by deputies while Jail Industries uniform will only be during special events such as patrolling on bicycles. This uniform worn by deputies currently working in ceremonies, media briefings and also authorized for wear while on Jail Industries public forums. outside employment, e.g., PGA Tourney, etc. SHIRT (HONOR GUARD) Dark Navy Two-Toned Yellow/Black Tan Polo 100% polyester or a 100% polyester or a Polyester/cotton blend polyester/wool blend with military synthetic blend Epaulets - None creases Epaulets - Black Patches - None Epaulets - Gold trim Patches - Subdued Buttons - Melamine Pockets - Two scalloped flap Buttons - Yellow melamine Badge - Embroidered with badge bellowed breast pockets Badge - Embroidered with badge number- Color will be gold for Sgts. Patches - Color number and above, all others silver. Buttons - Metal, Texas Star on Name Plate - Embroidered Black Name Plate - Embroidered - Color will epaulets and breast pockets. Color letters. be gold for Sgts. and above, all others will be gold for Sgts. and above, all Nametapes not authorized. silver. others silver. Collar Rank - Embroidered Nametapes not authorized. Badge - Metal Stripes - Subdued Collar Rank - None Nameplate - Metal Tie - None Stripes - None Collar Rank - Metal Service Stars/Bars - None Tie - None Stripes - Color - Gold for Sgts. and Accoutrements - None Service Stars/Bars - None above, silver for all others Additional - “SHERIFF” will be Accoutrements - None Tie - No tie - White ascot with or printed on back in reflective without miniature Sheriff’s patch letters. Service Stars/Bar - Color - Matching badge color Accoutrements - (OPTIONAL) Metal TROUSERS (HONOR GUARD) Dark Navy 4-pocket Black 100% polyester or Black Utility Cargo Pants 100% polyester or a synthetic blend polyester/cotton blend polyester/wool blend Cargo Style Bike Shorts with Cargo pockets on each leg (6-pocket) Straight leg with gold stripe down minimum 4” inseam length of leg. Long Bike Pants for inclement weather Effective date April 30, 2014 66 SPECIALTY UNIFORMS CONTINUED: S.W.A.T. S.E.R.T. K-9 The S.W.A.T. uniform will be worn The S.E.R.T. uniform will be worn The K-9 uniform will be worn only by only by deputies on active status only by deputies on active status either Detention/Patrol deputies on with S.W.A.T. with S.E.R.T. active status with K-9. SHIRT BDU (OD Green) - Long Sleeve Green Tactical Utility Shirt BDU (OD Green) - Long/short Sleeve Polyester/cotton blend Polyester/cotton blend Polyester/cotton blend Epaulets - None Epaulets - None Epaulets - None Patches - Subdued Black on OD Patches - Subdued Black on OD Patches - Subdued Black on OD Buttons - Melamine Buttons - Melamine Buttons - Melamine Badge – None Badge - Embroidered with badge Badge - None Name Plate - Embroidered, number Name Plate - Embroidered, subdued subdued Name Plate - Embroidered; Collar Rank - Embroidered Collar Rank - Embroidered Nametapes not authorized. Stripes - Subdued Stripes - Subdued Collar Rank - Embroidered Tie - None Tie - None Stripes - Subdued Service Stars/Bars - None Service Stars/Bars - None Tie - None Accoutrements - None Accoutrements - None Service Stars/Bars - None Additional - Exact Specs in SOP Additional - Exact Specs in SOP Accoutrements - None Additional -”SERT” will be embroidered across the back. TROUSERS BDU (OD Green) Pocket Trouser BDU (OD Green) Pocket Trouser BDU (OD Green) Pocket Trouser Polyester/cotton blend Polyester/cotton blend Polyester/cotton blend Two front quarter pockets, two Two front quarter pockets, two Two front quarter pockets, two pleated BDU style cargo side pleated BDU style cargo side pleated BDU style cargo side pockets, pockets, two hip pockets with flaps. pockets, two hip pockets with two hip pockets with flaps. Specs in Specs in SOP. flaps. Specs in SOP. SOP. Effective date April 30, 2014 67 SPECIALTY UNIFORMS CONTINUED: SHERIFF’S ACADEMY CID SWORN PERSONNEL This uniform may be worn only by personnel May wear Business Office attire to include a on active status with the Sheriff’s Academy. If long/short sleeve button down dress shirt with not wearing this uniform, instructors will Sheriff’s patch on front left and optional name wear Class A, B, or C uniform. and rank on right side. To be worn only with dress attire (reference Chapter 7 of this manual). SHIRT Black Polo Polo shirt - Long/short sleeve Polyester/cotton blend (Firearms instructors Polyester blend (excluding the color red) may substitute a Red Polo on range days) Epaulets - None Epaulets - None Patch/Badge - Embroidered Patches - None (Cap size patch) front left of shirt with Buttons - Melamine Section/Division under patch. Badge - Embroidered with badge number - Name/Rank - Embroidered Color will be gold for Sgts. and above, all Nametapes not authorized others silver. Additional - None Non-sworn personnel may wear the Sheriff’s shoulder patch or Sheriff’s Academy logo in lieu of the Sheriff’s badge Name Plate - Embroidered - Color will be gold for Sgts. and above, all others silver. Nametapes not authorized. Certified Instructors may add “Instructor” below their name. Collar Rank - None Stripes - None Tie - None Service Stars/Bars - None NOTE: Optional wear is not authorized for Court Accoutrements – None or Outside employment. TROUSERS AND FOOTWEAR Khaki Utility Cargo Pants Tactical Pant Lightweight Polyester/cotton blend 65/35 Poly/cotton canvas Cargo pockets on each leg (6-pocket) Two front quarter pockets Two pleated BDU style cargo side pockets Two hip pockets Footwear - Tactical boots/shoes, either high Footwear - Tactical boots/shoes, either high or or low top, non-skid tactical footwear made low top, non-skid tactical footwear made from from black/tan leather or canvas and leather black/tan leather or canvas and leather composite shall be worn. composite shall be worn. Effective date April 30, 2014 68 7.06 INSIGNIA AND OTHER UNIFORM ITEMS A. The following insignia are authorized to be worn as indicated: 1. Sheriff’s Office Badge: The official Bexar County Sheriff’s Office Badge will be displayed on all outer garments except the raincoat. In accordance with the specifications above the Badge will be displayed on the uniform in the metal or embroidered fashion as listed in paragraph 7.05. Badges will be silver for Deputies and Detention Officers and gold for the rank of Sergeants and above. 2. Rank insignia for Lieutenants and above. Appropriate rank insignia will be displayed on the collar of any shirt worn. In accordance with the specifications above. Rank insignia will be displayed on the uniform in the metal or embroidered fashion as listed in 7.05. a. Sheriff – 5/8” Gold colored Four-Star Insignia (4) b. Chief Deputy – 5/8” Gold colored Three-Star Insignia (3) c. Deputy Chief (Jail Administrator) – 5/8” Gold colored Two-Star Insignia (2) d. Deputy Chief – ¾” Gold colored One-Star Insignia (1) e. Captain – ¾” Gold colored Double bar Insignia f. Lieutenant – ¾” Gold colored Single bar Insignia 3. Rank insignia for Sergeants, Investigators and Corporals. Chevrons will be worn on both sleeves of any shirt or outer garment worn, except the raincoat. a. Sergeants - 3 gold stripes on black trim centered on the upper part of both sleeves of uniform coats and shirts b. Investigators - 2 silver stripes on black trim centered on the upper part of both sleeves of uniform coats and shirts c. Corporals - 2 silver stripes on black trim centered on the upper part of both sleeves of uniform coats and shirts. d. Subdued Stripes – Subdued stripes will be silver/grey in color. 4. Nameplate: Silver or Gold colored metal nameplates, ½” high x 3” long, or directly embroidered on shirt, aligned and centered over the right breast pocket seam. Nameplate will identify officer by last name and first initial and color will match badge color. When embroidered, thread color will match color of metal badge. 5. Shoulder Patches: Full size Bexar County Sheriff’s Office distinctive patches will be worn on both shoulders of all shirts and other outer garments, except for the raincoat. Effective date April 30, 2014 69  Patch will be displayed centered on sleeve no more than three-fourths of an inch (3/4”) below the epaulet. Two versions of the shoulder patch are authorized for wear. Any special unit patches must be authorized by the Sheriff prior to wear on any version of the uniform. a. Full Color Patch - A five-inch (5”) gold bordered black shield with the Sheriff or Detention identifier in gold thread over a full color Bexar County seal. b. Subdued Patch - A five-inch (5”) silver/grey bordered black shield with the Sheriff or Detention identifier in silver/grey thread over a silver/grey Bexar County seal. SWAT, SERT, and K-9 OD uniforms will have black thread on OD Green background. c. The “Sheriff” identifier is reserved for those Deputies who hold a current Peace Officer Commission. Detention Deputies, who do not hold a current Peace Officer Commission, will display the shoulder patch with “Detention” embroidered across the top. d. Miniature versions of the BCSO patch are authorized for wear on uniform items requiring their use. B. Headgear is an optional item for those Deputies and Detention Officers performing duties outdoors or when attending formal functions/ceremonies; i.e., funerals, dedications, parades, etc. Headgear is only authorized for wear while wearing one of the regulation duty uniforms listed above. 1. Hats will be clean in a serviceable condition in order to present a professional image. 2. “Cowboy” Western Style Hats – A western style hat with felt or straw construction is authorized for wear as follows: a. May be worn with the Class A, B, or C uniforms. Shall be worn with the Honor Guard uniform. b. Winter style hat, will be of felt construction; silver belly in color with four (4) inch brim and five (5) inch crown with cattleman’s crease. Hatband will be of a matching silver belly color, and may include a small silver buckle on the hat band. c. Summer style hat, will be of a natural color straw construction with a four (4) inch brim and five (5) inch crown with cattleman’s crease. The crown shall have no decorative ventilation weave pattern, but may have three black or brown grommets on each side for ventilation. A black string hatband will be worn and may include a small silver buckle on the hat band. d. Rain covers made of clear plastic may be worn over the western style hat during inclement weather. Covers should be removed as soon as the inclement weather has cleared. e. Western style hats will not be worn with a flat brim or with excessive roll to the brim. 1) Brims should have some degree of an upward roll but not excessive. “Bull-rider” or excessive rolls of brim are not authorized. Effective date April 30, 2014 70  2) No decoration of any type, such as feathers or pins, may be worn with or attached to hats. f. No other western hat designs or shapes are authorized; only hats meeting the above shape, color, and style may be worn. The Sheriff’s Office Sheriff’s Academy will announce the “changeover” dates to switch from felt to straw in spring and from straw to felt in fall. g. Hats shall be free of dirt, oil, and sweat and shall be clean and serviceable. 3. Utility Hat - Black Baseball Style Hat with an embroidered Sheriff’s Patch centered on the front face is authorized for wear with the Bike uniform. 4. Watch cap – A black tight-fit knit cap is authorized only for cold weather outdoor activities, and only with the Class B or C duty uniforms or SWAT/SERT specialty uniforms. Specifications for the authorized watch cap are as follows: a. Watch cap will be black in color and free of designer logos. b. BCSO full color or subdued miniature patch will be embroidered or sewn on. c. Watch cap is for extreme cold weather and will not be worn without an accompanying coat or jacket. C. Undergarments: Undergarments exposed at the neck or ankle will be black in color without any lettering or logos. During periods of cold weather, thermal type under garments or a long-sleeve T-shirt may be worn under a long sleeve uniform shirt. However, long sleeve thermal or T-shirt under garments will not be worn under a short sleeve T-shirt, used as outerwear or exposed. D. Belts: A belt will be worn with all versions of the uniform. Belts will be in serviceable condition, free of frays, cracks and excessive wear. The following are authorized: 1. Leather – Black smooth surface without design or ornamentation with a metal buckle. The buckle’s color will match the Deputy’s badge color. 2. Nylon – Black in color with black buckle. E. Footwear: Footwear will be kept clean, highly shined when appropriate, and in good repair. Shoe laces will be kept tied so as not to present a safety hazard and will be replaced when becoming frayed. The following styles/types of footwear are authorized for uniformed Deputies: 1. Low quarter shoes, black in color with plain, round toe and smooth leather without designs. Oxford style, military style, low quarter patent leather or high-gloss ”corofram” shoes are also authorized for wear. 2. Boots, black in color with plain, round toe and smooth leather without design. Cannot have metal ornaments or “tips” attached. a. Trouser legs will be worn over boot. Exceptions are as follows: Effective date April 30, 2014 71  1) Motor Unit when wearing motorcycle boots. 2) SERT and SWAT may blouse trousers. b. Western boot heels will be of a walking style. c. Steel safety toe boots are not authorized, except for safety reasons for those employees working in a warehouse environment. 3. Tactical boots/shoes, either high or low top, non-skid tactical footwear made from black leather or canvas and leather composite may be worn. 4. Black Bicycle low quarters or Black Tennis Style Shoes may be worn only with the Bike Uniform. F. Outer Garments: 1. Dress Coats - Deputies specifically designated and authorized by the Sheriff may wear a dark navy uniform dress coat for special functions. The dress coat will be made in a standard single-breasted uniform cut design, with either a single vent or double vent in the rear. This coat will be worn over a plain white shirt, with a dark navy necktie. 2. Leather Jackets – Motor Officers are authorized to wear a leather jacket. Jacket will be waist length, made from plain black smooth leather, without logos or ornamentation. Jackets may have zippered front or flap over zipper front. Jackets will have a badge tab to facilitate wearing the Sheriff’s metal badge. Jackets will not have pockets or zippered pockets on sleeves, nor will they have zippered cuffs. A badge and patches commensurate with status/rank will be worn. 3. Cold Weather Jacket – This jacket will be black in color and free of designer logos, excessive zippers and ornamentation. The jacket will present a professional image; badge and patches commensurate with status/rank will be worn. 4. Windbreaker – The windbreaker will present a professional image, be black in color, free of designer logos, excessive zippers and ornamentation. Badge and patches commensurate with status/rank will be worn. A first initial and last name may be embroidered on the right side of the windbreaker at the same level as the badge. 5. Sweater/Fleece Jacket – Sweaters or fleece outer garments shall be black in color; badge and patches commensurate with status/rank will be worn. Sweaters shall be of the “wooly-pulley” pullover style and purpose designed to allow shoulder patches and badge to be affixed to sweater. 6. Raid Jacket – This jacket shall be black in color, waist length and adorned with “Sheriff” and unit identifiers in bold lettering, primarily used by plain clothes Investigators at crime scenes. 7. Raincoat – A raincoat or two-piece foul weather suit is authorized for wear over the uniform during inclement weather. The selected style must meet safety requirements and be lime Effective date April 30, 2014 72  green or yellow in color with the word “Sheriff” printed on back in black or with reflective lettering, as applicable. G. The following accoutrements are authorized to be worn as indicated: 1. Service Pins and Certification Awards: The following pins and awards are authorized for wear above the authorized nameplate. Embroidered versions of theses pins may be worn with the class C uniform. a. Bexar County Longevity Service Awards – Full color county coat of arms service pins awarded for each five (5) years of service to the county may be worn by uniformed personnel. Only the most recently awarded pin may be worn. b. Instructor/Master Instructor - May be worn by individuals who have successfully completed eligibility requirements (TCOLE and Bexar County, as applicable). Pins will measure approximately one inch by one-half inch in size, with a blue cloisonné background and have silver or gold lettering (commensurate with rank of the wearer). c. Special Weapons and Tactics Teams (S.W.A.T.) – S.W.A.T. pins will only be worn by active members of the S.W.A.T., who have met minimum training requirements as established by the S.W.A.T. unit commander. Pins must conform to the Sheriff’s Office specifications with respect to size, shape, configuration and color. d. Special Emergency Response Team (S.E.R.T.) – S.E.R.T. pins will only be worn by active members of the S.E.R.T., who have met minimum training requirements as established by the S.E.R.T. unit commander. Pins must conform to the Sheriff’s Office specifications with respect to size, shape, configuration and color. e. Patrol Training Officer/Detention Training Officer (PTO/DTO) – PTO/DTO pins or epaulet “sleeves” may be worn by active PTOs and DTOs who have met minimum training requirements. Pins or epaulet “sleeves” must conform to the Sheriff’s Office specifications with respect to size, shape, configuration and color. Current specifications will be maintained by the Sheriff’s Academy. f. Bicycle Patrol - Pins will only be worn by Deputies assigned to bicycle patrol duties, who have met minimum training requirements. Pins must conform to the Sheriff’s Office specifications with respect to size, shape, configuration and color. g. Honor Guard – Pins will only be worn by officer’s currently assigned duties with the Sheriff’s Honor Guard. Pins must conform to the Sheriff’s Office specifications with respect to size, shape, configuration and color. h. Telecommunications – Pins may be worn by employees assigned to the Public Safety Communications Center (PSCC) and who have met minimum licensing standards. i. Pins must conform to the Sheriff’s Office specifications with respect to size, shape, configuration and color. Effective date April 30, 2014 73  j. Crime Prevention – Pins or bars will only be worn by Deputies who are assigned to duties as crime prevention officers and who have met minimal training and/or certification standards. Pins must meet acceptable standards established by the Texas Crime Prevention Association. k. Graduate Management Institute (GMI) – Pins or bars may be worn only by employees, who have successfully completed the Graduate Management Institute Program of the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT). Pins or bars must meet requirements established by LEMIT. 2. Service Bars and Stars – May be worn as an optional item on the center of the lower part of left sleeve of uniform long sleeve shirts and jackets, except for windbreaker. These longevity awards will be gold or silver colored thread embroidered on black fabric. Service Stars and Bars may be worn in combination with each other. a. Service Stars: Each star denotes five (5) years of service with the Sheriff’s Office. b. Service Bars: Each bar denotes two (2) years of service with the Sheriff’s Office. 3. Ceremonial Items: Honor Guard, Color Guard, Buglers, Pall Bearers and other Deputies participating in formal ceremonies will be authorized to wear additional ceremonial items such as ascots, fourragères, and white gloves, as appropriate. 7.07 DUTY GEAR AND ACCESSORIES A. Duty Gear and Accessories will be of either leather or nylon construction. Nylon or polymer duty gear and accessories are authorized for wear by all Deputies, in lieu of leather gear. When this option is selected, Deputies will not mix and match leather with nylon, with the exception that a polymer holster may be worn with a leather duty belt. All leather, nylon or polymer accessories must be of good quality, dyed black, smooth surface without design or ornamentation and kept clean and polished. B. Holsters and Accessories: Uniformed deputies will wear the following accessories: 1. Trouser Belt. 2. Duty Belt: The duty belt may be Border Patrol, Ranger or River style with “D” ring metal buckle or Velcro closure ; belt will be worn over and concealing the trouser belt. Deputies holding the rank of sergeant and above will wear a gold color buckle; all other deputies will wear a silver colored buckle. Command Staff personnel are authorized to forego the duty belt and may attach a holster directly to the trouser belt; they are also exempt from the requirement to wear other accessories which go on the duty belt. The Sam Browne style belt with square buckle is not authorized. 3. Duty holster: a. The holster will meet current Retention level II or higher standards, as well as other specifications set forth in Chapter 8. Effective date April 30, 2014 74  b. The holster will be worn centered over the outer pant leg seam or stripe running down the trouser leg. c. Tactical Holsters - Nylon thigh holsters may only be worn by Deputies/units conducting operations requiring this type equipment, and then only with special permission. At no time will tactical holsters be worn with the standard duty uniform or standard duty gear. 4. Belt Keepers: a. A minimum of three (3) belt keepers will be worn to secure the duty belt to the trouser belt. 1) Two (2) keepers with button snaps will be worn on the back of duty belt, one (1) on each side of the body, arranged for the wearer’s comfort. 2) One (1) or more single keepers with button snaps will be worn on the front or sides of the duty belt where they can provide the best support. b. Deputies holding the rank of sergeant and above will wear gold-colored snaps; all other Deputies will wear silver-colored snaps. As an alternative, keepers with leather covering the snaps may be worn by all ranks. 5. Ammunition Carriers: Uniformed Deputies will utilize a plain black double or triple magazine carrier. This holder may be worn either vertically or horizontally on the duty belt. 6. Radio Case/Holder: If worn, the radio case/holder will be plain black leather. 7. Handcuff Cases: Deputies will wear two (2) handcuff cases on the back of the duty belt. Open or covered cases may be worn, but “straps” with dangling handcuffs will not be worn. 8. Other Accessories: Any other accessories worn on the duty belt will be plain black leather, when applicable. C. Holsters and Accessories: Non-Uniformed Deputies assigned to investigations, undercover, or special assignments shall carry the following: 1. Holsters: The holster is worn on an appropriate trouser belt and will meet current Retention level I standards, as well as other specifications set forth in Chapter 8. 2. Magazine Carriers: As a minimum, a single magazine holder, which matches the color and style of holster carried, will be worn vertically or horizontally. 3. Handcuff Cases: All Deputies will wear at least one (1) handcuff case on the back of the trouser belt. Open or covered cases may be worn, but “straps” with dangling handcuffs will not be worn. 4. Other Accessories: Any other optional items will match the color and style of the holster worn. These accessories will conform to any other specifications set forth in Chapter 8. Effective date April 30, 2014 75 D. Holsters and Accessories: Uniformed Detention deputies shall wear the following: 1. Trouser or duty belt with metal buckle. Deputies holding the rank of sergeant and above will wear a gold color buckle; all other Deputies will wear a silver colored buckle. 2. Handcuff Cases: Deputies will wear at least one (1) handcuff case on the back of the trouser belt. Open or covered cases may be worn, but “straps” with dangling handcuffs will not be worn. 3. Radio Case/Holder: If worn, the radio case/holder will be plain black leather. 4. Other Accessories: Any other optional items will match the color and style of the holster and/or belt worn. These accessories will conform to any other specifications set forth in Chapter 8. 7.08 PROHIBITIONS Uniform items and accessories not discussed or described in cited paragraphs above are not authorized for wear or use without specific written authorization. A Division Chief may establish use of a preferred style of gear (leather or nylon) in accordance to paragraphs 7.07 of this chapter, but may not authorize additional uniform items or accessories without written authorization of the Chief Deputy. 7.09 GROOMING STANDARDS A. Haircut 1. Men - Must be either tapered or blocked cut variety. Hair will not extend over the ears and will not exceed an inch in length around the sides of the head. Hair grown on the top of the head may be longer but will be groomed so as not to present an unkempt appearance. The hair shall be combed, and trimmed to reflect a business-like image. 2. Uniformed Women - Hair will be cut or styled so that, although it may touch the collar, it may not extend or fall below the lower edge of the collar. Because hair at times can become a liability, such as in a combative situation, hair will not be worn in ponytails, pigtails, loosely hanging braid(s), bouffant or other styles that could place the employee at a disadvantage. 3. Non-Uniformed Women - Hair shall be clean, neat, and styled in such a fashion, which will not be a safety hazard. 4. Wigs (All Personnel) - May wear wigs and/or hair pieces if they are indicated as necessary by a physician. When worn, they must look natural and must be conservative in style and color. Wearing of “falls”, hair woven into one’s natural hair and other faddish-type artificial hair fashions are not allowed. NOTE: Uniformed personnel must provide a copy of the physician’s prescription which will be provided to the employee’s supervisor to acknowledge requirement, and to the Personnel Office to include in employee’s personnel file. The supervisor will sign and date the reverse of the prescription as a form of acknowledgment. Effective date April 30, 2014 76  5. Hair Ornaments (Uniformed Women) - Will be plain and have no design, colors other than black, dark brown, navy blue or tortoise are not authorized for wear. The following are examples of hair ornaments that may be worn in the hair: bobby pins, hairpins, banana clips, barrettes, and rubber bands. The following are examples of hair ornaments that are prohibited; head bands, scrunchies and items listed above with ornamentation such as bows and other frilly attachments. B. Facial Hair 1. Sideburns (Men) - May be worn, but they are not to extend lower than the middle of the ear canal. 2. Mustache (Men) - May be worn by men employees. Mustaches will not extend more than one-fourth an inch beyond the corner of the mouth and will not extend below the top of the upper lip. Mustaches of unusual cut are not acceptable and therefore will not be worn. 3. Beard (Men) a. Uniform personnel will not wear beards unless under recommendation by a medical professional (Medical Doctor, Physician’s Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner) due to skin condition or pseudofolliculitis. Such recommendation shall be reviewed by the supervisor and a copy filed in the employee’s personnel file. b. Non-Uniformed Men may wear a beard provided that the beard is well-groomed and it does not present an unsightly, unkempt appearance. Beard hair length will in no case exceed one inch in length. Employees are limited to no more than one full beard start- up per each six-month period. In the event that a longer beard length is required for religious and/or other bonafide reasons, the employee must get the personal permission of the Sheriff. Authority to grant permission to grow a longer beard will not be delegated. C. Hair Color Conspicuous changes are prohibited. The color selected will be conservative and will conform to those colors that a reasonable person would consider natural. Unusual colors such as bright red, pink, blue, yellow, green, purple, plum, etc. will not be worn. Hair may be “frosted” but the amount of “frosting” color will not contrast to an unusual degree with the remaining hair color. D. Cosmetics (Make-up) 1. Make-up when worn must be conservative, exaggerated or faddish styles are inappropriate while at work. 2. Men are prohibited from wearing make-up except when approved in writing for medical purposes. 3. Eyebrow pencil color may be applied to accent the eyebrow. Eyeliner may also be used in minimal amounts. Effective date April 30, 2014 77  4. Eye shadow applied in a conservative manner and amount is acceptable but not recommended. 5. Lipstick may be worn as long as the amount and color worn is conservative and does not clash with the wearer’s complexion or uniform color. E. Glasses Wearing sunglasses, dark glasses, or light sensitive glasses with extra dark lenses is prohibited indoors, unless prescribed by the employee’s physician. A copy of the physician’s prescription will be provided to the employee’s supervisor for acknowledgment and to the personnel office for inclusion in the employee’s medical file. The supervisor will sign and date the reverse of the prescription as a form of acknowledgment. F. Fingernails 1. All staff members shall have clean, well-trimmed fingernails. 2. Long nails: More than ¾ of an inch, measured from the base of the nail to the end (tip), whether artificial or natural are prohibited. 3. Women who wear nail polish will select a conservative color that will promote a professional appearance and that does not clash with the uniform color. 4. Men may wear a clear nail hardener or buffed manicure, but are prohibited from wearing a colored nail polish for any purpose. G. Jewelry 1. Due to the environment, jewelry is to be limited to a conservative style and amount to avoid undue attention. The Sheriff’s Office is not responsible for the loss or destruction of any jewelry worn by uniformed Deputies while on duty. 2. Wristwatches - All uniformed personnel are encouraged to wear a wristwatch. 3. Bracelet - Uniformed Deputies may wear one bracelet. The bracelet will be conservative in appearance and in size. 4. Rings - Wearing of rings is limited to one for each hand. (A wedding set is considered one ring.) 5. Earrings - Only women Deputies may wear earrings. Only Stud-type earrings are authorized for those employees who perform their duties in the vicinity of, or amongst inmates. No more than one (1) pair of earrings may be worn at any given time and only one earring is permitted per ear. 6. Necklaces - Visible necklaces and other decorative jewelry are prohibited for wear by uniformed officers at all times while on duty. Effective date April 30, 2014 78 H. Body Modification - Body art and modification includes attachments to body, piercing, tattooing, branding, cutting, insertion of implants and dental ornamentation that modifies, decorates, changes or alters the appearance and, or form of the body. 1. Body-Piercings - Employees of the Sheriff’s Office shall not wear any exposed body-piercings other than women wearing earrings while working. 2. Tattoos – Employees shall have no tattoos that are not concealed when wearing a long sleeve shirt with or without a tie. All tattoos shall remain covered at all times while on duty. Deputies assigned undercover duties may be exempted from this requirement by their Deputy Chief, but only for the duration of the undercover assignment. Any portions of tattoos extending above the collar must be concealable using flesh-colored bandages “concealment of tattoos may not be done with make-up, only flesh-colored bandages”. Individuals who are already employed at the time of this policy who have existing tattoos that are not concealable when wearing a long sleeve shirt or shirt collar may “grandfather” existing tattoos through BCSO Human Resources. (NOTE: BCSO Human Resources staff will photograph un-concealable existing tattoos for documentation in the employee’s 201 confidential file.) 7.10 GUIDELINES FOR SWORN AND NON-SWORN PERSONNEL A. Clothing – Non-Uniformed 1. Employees of the Sheriff’s Office are expected to present themselves in a professional manner, regardless of their work assignments. The prescribed mode of attire is office-type styles and the following guidelines provide a foundation for staff to observe in the selection of their work apparel. The following dress code is in effect during all scheduled hours including evenings and weekends. Emphasis is on neatness, cleanliness, and safety. If there are questions concerning the appropriateness of appearance, the section supervisor/manager should be consulted for clarification. 2. Women are expected to wear well-tailored dresses, suits, skirts, culottes; coordinated separates such as skirts or slacks with long or short sleeve dress shirts or blouses. Skirts will be no shorter than two inches above the knee. The following are examples of items of apparel that are inappropriate for wear: a. Casual sports clothes b. Tight fitting sweaters, casual tops (i.e., tank tops, tee-shirts, warm-up suits, sweat suits, etc.) c. Revealing attire such as sheer clothing without proper undergarments, low-cut necklines which emphasize the breasts, slit skirts which reveal the upper leg, sun dresses, halter- style dresses, spaghetti strap dresses, and backless dresses, sleeveless dresses of any sort, strapless tops, and mini-skirts. d. Evening apparel made from fabrics normally used for after five wear (i.e., satin, chiffon, sequins, lame, etc.) hats, caps, or other head wear are prohibited. Effective date April 30, 2014 79  3. Men’s attire includes slacks and long or short sleeve dress shirts, sweaters, suits and sports coats and ties. a. Professional employees are expected to wear coats and ties. 1) Clip on ties are recommended for men whose primary duties are performed in an area where frequent contact with inmates is necessary. 2) Although coats may be taken off indoors and while work is being performed, the intent is to continue a businesslike environment and efficient appearance. b. The following are examples of items of apparel that are inappropriate for duty wear: 1) Casual sports clothes. 2) Tank tops, shirts unbuttoned to expose the chest, tee-shirts, warm-up suits, sweat suits, muscle shirts, fishnet shirts, knit sports (golf or tennis) shirts, guayaberas, jack shirts, 3) Numbered athletic jerseys, hats, caps, or other head wear, and bandannas. 4. Exceptions to prescribed dress wear shall be limited to special task assignments such as undercover work, inventory in a particularly dirty work area, etc. a. Supervisors shall advise staff members that casual clothing may be worn but wear will be limited to the day(s) on which they are assigned to a special task. b. From time to time, the Sheriff will allow departures from the dress code. This will be announced in writing by the Sheriff’s Administration. These announcements will also specify the type of dress and the period during which the dress code is relaxed. c. A standing exception to the dress wear prescribed above is the allowance for denim jeans to be worn by non-uniformed personnel on Fridays. Jeans worn shall not be ‘skinny jeans’, overly tight, and shall not have holes or fraying. They shall be clean and neat, preferably pressed, presenting a ‘business casual’ western appearance. B. Footwear 1. Employees are advised to select shoes/boots which are comfortable for extended periods of standing and walking. 2. Casual footwear such as sandals, huaraches, flip-flops, sneakers, canvas shoes of any type, etc. are not considered appropriate for the work environment. 3. Shoes will be polished, clean, and in a good state of repair. 4. Shoes will be worn at all times with socks or with hose, as appropriate. C. Identification Badges Effective date April 30, 2014 80  1. Wearing of identification badges is mandatory while inside the Sheriff’s Office facilities. All civilian employees shall wear an identification badge with a photograph in full view, above the waist level, to identify them as a staff member of the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. Commissioned peace officers who are not in uniform shall display their departmental badge while inside Sheriff’s Office facilities. 2. A staff member who reports to work without their identification badge shall report to their immediate supervisor. The employee will be instructed to leave the facility to retrieve the identification badge prior to being admitted to the work area. An employee who forgets their badge and has to leave to retrieve it may be charged with either accrued compensatory or vacation time until they return and report for their regularly scheduled shift. Employees may also have disciplinary action imposed for violation of the Rules of the Bexar County Sheriff’s Civil Service Commission. 3. Lost identification badges must be reported immediately to the employee’s supervisor. The employee will be required to complete an incident report containing all the specifics surrounding the loss. The employee will then go to the Business Office and pay a replacement fee. The receipt will then be presented to the Personnel Office where a replacement badge will be made and issued. Effective date April 30, 2014 81