Earlier this week a Twitter user asked Humberside Police why it employed so many officers with tattoos.
In a robust response, the force tweeted back to say it is more concerned with employing people who want to serve the community and show dedication than the nature and amount of tattoos they have.
The number of people getting tattoos is growing all the time and it is not the domain simply of ex-cons and sailors anymore. Tattoos simply do not have the stigma they once had and the diversity and quality of body art has also increased dramatically.
But what is the law on employment and tattoos? We take a look at what the current law says and what the policy is of the major employers in Hull.
If you’re applying for a job and already have tattoos or piercings
In the UK there is currently no law that expressly forbids discrimination against tattoos and piercings in the workplace.
In other words, if an employer decides not to hire you because he or she doesn’t like your tattoo or piercing, there’s nothing you can do about it. The only exception might be under the 2010 Equality Act if the tattoo or piercing were connected to their religion or beliefs.
You already have a job but want to get a tattoo or piercing
If your employer takes a dislike to a new tattoo or piercing you could be at risk of dismissal but employers will have to follow the proper process and ensure the policy addresses a legitimate business need.
But with so many people now with tattoos and piercings, it's expected that attitudes will change over time, regardless of what the law currently says.
What ACAS says
ACAS - who provides advice for employers and employees - has published guidance which urges employers to "carefully consider" the reason behind imposing a rule against tattoos and piercings, and says there should be "sound business reasons" for any such rule.
Stephen Williams, Acas Head of Equality, previously said: “Businesses are perfectly within their right to have rules around appearance at work but these rules should be based on the law where appropriate, and the needs of the business, not managers’ personal preferences.
“Therefore, while it is understandable that some companies will want to encourage a professional image through their workforce, employers that adopt an unreasonably strict policy on visible tattoos and body art are at risk of losing out on a significant number of skilled workers.
“While turning up to work or a job interview with an offensive facial tattoo would be rightfully frowned upon, and may hinder ones’ chances of retaining or getting a job. Perhaps taking a more lenient approach to visible tattoos and body art in general would be beneficial for businesses, and young aspiring professionals alike.”
What Hull employers say about tattoos in the workplace
The force’s policy states: “You must not have tattoos on your face or head. Tattoos visible on your neck or hands will be considered on a case by case basis.
“You should not have tattoos which could cause offence. Tattoos are not acceptable if they are particularly prominent, garish, offensive or undermine the dignity and authority of your role.”
When applying for a job within Humberside Police you will need to declare your tattoos at the time of application. You will be asked to send in two digital pictures of each tattoo - one from distance and a close-up.
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service
The fire service’s policy states: “Tattoos to the body are permitted providing that, where visible, they are not of an offensive nature and they do not detract from the positive public image of the service.
“Facial tattoos are not generally permitted as it is felt they may detract from the positive public image of the service, however, an assessment would be made on an individual basis to take into account religious and cultural beliefs.”
Hull and East Riding NHS Hospital Trust
The trust recognises that in today’s society many individuals now have tattoos. Its policy states: “Where a staff member has a tattoo in a skin area that remains exposed when wearing their uniforms this must not be offensive.
“It is for the managers to discuss with individual staff members the appropriateness for their tattoo to be on display.
“Where considered inappropriate and likely to or does cause upset to patients, other staff or visitors the staff member may be requested and expected to cover the tattoo.
“Managers are expected to take a reasonable approach to this subject recognising staff may have been employed pre ‘bare below the elbows’ directive and have tattoos pre NHS employment.”
Hull City Council
The council does not have a specific policy on tattoos. The dress code policy states: “The public is entitled to expect the highest standards of service from the council. This extends to the dress and appearance of all employees.
“Heads of Service are responsible for determining what is appropriate and this will vary with the type of work being carried out, the requirements of health and safety rules and regulations and the type of working environment.
“Wherever practically possible, employees should always be of acceptable appearance, clean and tidy, while employed on council duties.”
East Riding Council
Like Hull, East Riding also has no specific policy but a spokeswoman said: “We do expect staff to portray a professional and corporate image.”
You will be prevented from joining the Army if you have a tattoo that is considered offensive, obscene or racist. Tattoos on the head and face are also not acceptable.
A small tattoo that isn’t offensive shouldn't be a problem. Those thinking of joining the army are advised to visit their nearest Army Careers Centre to check if their tattoo is ok.
Some body piercings will also stop you from joining the Army, for example if you have piercings that change the way you look.
A spokeswoman for the company said: "This dress code means tattoos are permitted, except those on the face, neck or those with offensive content."
Visible tattoos are allowed as long as they are “unobtrusive and inoffensive”. This may be decided at the discretion of the employer. The wearing of earrings or other piercings is banned, as is all visible jewellery apart from a plain wedding band.