NHS dress code staff sent home

[Rosymoo]

Hi I am.a band 6 team leader in the operating theatres in a large hospital. Without notice the dress code policy has been changed and staff with facial piercings and eyelash extentions have been sent home without pay by the theatre matron. I asked management for clarification on this and if I would be expected to send staff home if they turn up in my department with nose piercings etc, I have not had a reply. I am not happy to send anyone home without pay especially if it's not in their contract that this can be done. I work in a satellite unit away from the main theatres where the matron is based. I want to know if the hospital is acting lawfully and where I stand if I'm instructed to send people home. Thanks in advance

[atticus]

You need to raise the question with management

[Rosymoo]

I asked about this and the matron said it has nothing to do with their contract, but this does not seem correct to me. He said they are not fit for work so can be sent home without pay.

[islandgirl]

Was the change properly notified? Why can someone not take a face piercing out / extensions off and carry on working?

[ULA]

Something like a dress code is rarely part of a contract of employment but will be part of a staff handbook. What does that state about dress code in respect of facial piercings and lash extensions?