Scotland police officers could be forced to shave off their beards in days as a new policy is enforced.
The clean-shaven plan means that cops will have to get rid of facial hair by the end of the month.
According to the BBC, the Respiratory Protective Equipment policy has been approved by the chief constable and will be introduced on May 29.
It also covers civilian staff in frontline roles.
Police Scotland said the policy was necessary so officers and staff can wear protective FFP3 masks – which requires users to be clean-shaven.
Four are set to take legal action in relation to the policy.
Officers wore the masks during the Covid pandemic to help protect them from the virus.
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Speirs said that, while the risk from Covid has dropped, wider risks remain to those attending calls, such as fires, road accidents and chemical incidents which require PPE to be worn.
Any officer using the FFP3 masks should shave off their beards and moustaches.
There is an exemption for religious, cultural, disability or medical reasons.