The Firefighter's Moustache

In celebration of Movember - the Month of the 'Stache, I bring you a comical post in honor of the hair on the upper lip of all brave firefighters.

It seems that the moustache is a swashbuckling, daring spectacle. It tends to lend an air of dignity to a man's face. After all, when you think of macho men with moustaches you probably remember Wyatt Earp, Theodore Roosevelt, Tom Selleck, Burt Reynolds, Sam Elliot, Hulk Hogan, Alex Trebek, and yes, Victor Willis - the cop from the Village People.

Although no actual scientific poll has been taken it may be safe to say that 40% of all firefighters have moustaches. I realize I have no sources on this, other than looking around the station in Fire Academy, but just trust me on this one. Of the 21 recruits I am training with 9 of us have ridiculous moustaches.

The origin and style of the firefighter's moustache seems to be shrouded in mystery and legend. Well, maybe not so much mystery and legend but simple curiosity and awestruck, if not slightly nauseous, wonder. Really fellas, what's with the moustache?

I can tell you from my experience as a fully bearded gentleman who once took pride in my facial hair it is due to OSHA regulation 1910.134(g)(1)(i), which states: "The employer shall not permit respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by employees who have: 1910.134(g)(1)(i)(A) Facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of the facepiece and the face or that interferes with valve function."

As my Deputy Chief of Training stated, "You don't want to die breathing toxic smoke because you can't get a good seal around your beard and no one likes the smell of burnt hair." Wise words, wise words.

So, how can a man still be proud of his manly coiffure and still be within regulations? This simple chart may help all of you who want to ensure a good seal with your facepiece or at least look like a firefighter.

Image © Brandon Glenn

I sport the "Handlebar" moustache because it is a ludicrous display of lip hair and because my wife dared me to. Now you know the real reason why some firefighters choose to wear the moustache and knowing is half the battle.

Do you wear a moustache in the fire service? What are your station SOP's in regard to facial hair? Do you have unspoken rules in regard to the firefighter moustache?