Quick answers
Are hairnets required in restaurants?
The FDA Food Code (section 2-402.11) requires food employees to wear hair restraints such as hats, hair coverings or nets, and beard restraints, so hair does not contact exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens or unwrapped single-service items. States adopt the Food Code with their own changes, so check your local health department.
Who is exempt?
The Food Code exempts counter staff who only serve beverages and wrapped or packaged foods, hostesses and wait staff, as long as they present a minimal risk of contaminating exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens and unwrapped single-service items.
Hairnet or bouffant cap?
Hairnets are light and breathable, good for short-to-medium hair. Bouffant caps cover more hair and are common in food plants, cleanrooms and labs.