Reference Manual 43

Uniforms

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Associate Director, Park Operations and Education (Date)

Table of Contents

I.  Purpose and Scope 1

II. Background 1

III. Authorities 1

IV. Reference Material

SUBPART A: Program Management

1\. [Managing the Uniform Program]{.underline} 6

> Positions and Committees 6
>
> Servicewide Uniform Program Manager 6
>
> Servicewide Uniform Committee 6
>
> Regional Uniform Program Manager 7
>
> Park Uniform Coordinator and Committee 7
>
> Park Program Administrators 7
>
> Uniform Contractor -- Customer Service 8

2\. [The Uniforms]{.underline} 8

> Uniform Classes and Components 9
>
> Special Work Apparel & Personal Protective Clothing 13
>
> Out-of-Park Duties: 17
>
> Special Event Uniforms
>
> International Assignments
>
> Attendance at Training
>
> Detail Assignments

# 3. Wear and Appearance 18

> Rules for Wear 18
>
> Name Bar Standards 18
>
> Uniform Wear Standards 18
>
> Specific to a Garment 19
>
> Hats and Accessories 23
>
> Commemorative Pins 26
>
> Other & Options 27
>
> Obsolete Uniform Components 27
>
> Exigent Circumstances and Waivers 27
>
> Burial in Uniform 28
>
> Personal Appearance Standards 28
>
> Conduct and Bearing Standards 31
>
> Regular Duty 31
>
> Public Events 32

4\. [The Park Uniform Program]{.underline} 35

> Requirements and Content 35
>
> SAMPLE Local Standard 36
>
> New Employee Packet 38

5\. [Accountability]{.underline} 38

> Employee Conduct 38
>
> Condition of Employment 38
>
> Uniform Ownership 39
>
> Misconduct 39

SUBPART B: Program Administration 40

1\. Uniform Program Website 40

2\. Organization Codes 40

3\. Annual Program Cycle 40

4\. Allowance System 41

5\. Uniform Procurement Process 46

6\. Direct Purchases 48

> Components Covered by Allowance 48

Components not covered by Allowance 49

7\. Property Management 50

8\. Documents and Reports 50

9\. Closeout 50

10\. Proposals and Feedback 52

11\. Problem Resolution 53

# 

#  {#section-1 .unnumbered}

# REFERENCE MANUAL 43

#### PURPOSE AND SCOPE

####  {#section-2 .unnumbered}

This Reference Manual contains supplementary material to the National
Park Service (NPS), Director's Order (D.O.) \# 43, Uniforms.

#### II. BACKGROUND {#ii.-background .unnumbered}

# Definition of Terms

[Personal Appearance]{.underline}: includes all elements of appearance,
grooming, and personal adornment.

[Personal Adornments]{.underline} are any items not specifically
included in the official uniform item list located in Section 2, of
Subpart A of this manual, including, but not limited to: tattoos,
jewelry, pins, buttons, fingernail polish, body piercing, and elective
body modifications.

[Personal Protective Equipment]{.underline} (PPE): common definition
used in the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and Director's
Order 50.

[Ranger Hat]{.underline}: generic term used in this reference manual to
refer to the flat-brimmed straw or beaver-felt hat. Sometimes called the
"flat hat" or "stetson hat." Used generically, the term is not meant to
reflect job series or other uses of the term "ranger."

[Special Work Apparel]{.underline}: items required to safely and
efficiently accomplish specific duties. Includes apparel items in
earlier policy documents that were called "special uniforms" or "work
apparel."

[Superintendent:]{.underline} used generically to denote the senior
manager for any unit or office.

[Uniform Coordinator]{.underline}: refers to an individual in a park or
office that has a portfolio of uniform duties on behalf of that park or
office.

[Uniform Program Manager]{.underline}: refers to the designated manager
positions in regional offices and the Washington Office (WASO).

[Uniform Program Website]{.underline}: the Government-maintained website
for uniform allowance authorization, is located at
<http://amoebawww.den.nps.gov/amoeba/nps_uniform.nsf>. Employees can
place orders at
[www.uniformsolutions.com/lma](http://www.uniformsolutions.com/lma).

#### III. AUTHORITIES {#iii.-authorities .unnumbered}

The following expanded citations \[refer to 5 United States Code
(U.S.C.) 5903\] and the Comptroller General\'s decisions set the limits
of the NPS uniform program. Relevant sections of laws are quoted where
appropriate, and clarifying comments from congressional reports have
been cited where necessary to indicate congressional intent.

**Uniform Allowances**

####### Laws

1\. Title 5, U.S.C., Section 5901(a) -- P.L. 83-763 (1954), as amended
by P.L. 89-554 (1966), P.L. 90-83 (1967), and P.L. 101-509 (1990):

\"There is authorized to be appropriated annually to each agency of the
Government

of the United States\...on a showing of necessity or desirability, such
sums as may be

necessary to carry out this subchapter. The head of the agency
concerned, out of the

funds made available by the appropriation, shall:

1\) furnish to each of these employees a uniform at a cost not to exceed
\$400 a year (or such higher maximum amount as the Office of Personnel
Management may establish under Section 5902); or

2\) pay to each of these employees an allowance for a uniform not to
exceed \$400 a year (or such higher maximum amount as the Office of
Personnel Management may establish under Section 5902).

The allowance may be paid only at the times and in the amounts
authorized by the

regulations prescribed under Section 5903 of this title\...\"

2\. Title 5, U.S.C., Section 5901(c) -- P.L. 89-554 (1966), as amended
by P.L. 90-83 (1967):

\"An allowance paid under this section is not wages within the meaning
of Section 409

of Title 42 or Chapters 21 and 24 of Title 26.\"

3\. Title 5, U.S.C., Section 5902 - P.L. 83-763 (1954), as amended by
P.L. 101-509 (1990):

\"The Office of Personnel Management may, from time to time, by
regulation adjust the

maximum amount for the cost of uniforms and the maximum allowance for
uniforms

under Section 5901.\"

4\. Title 5, U.S.C., Section 5903 - P.L. 89-554 (1966), as amended by
P.L. 101-509 (1990):

\"The Office of Personnel Management may prescribe such regulations as
it considers

necessary for the administration of this subchapter.\"

[Congressional Reports]{.underline}

1\. Senate Report No. 1992 (1954), which repeats in substance the House
Report on P.L. 83-763: Funds will be paid \"as prescribed by agency
regulations, to each such (uniformed) employee for purchase and upkeep
of uniforms.\"

The original report wording permitted use of funds for full payment of
uniforms and for

their upkeep.

2\. Conference Report No. 2665 (1954): Funds will be paid \"to each such
(uniformed) employee to defray the expense of acquiring (a)
uniform\...The conference substitute adopts the language of the Senate
amendment, except (1) for deletion of a provision therein for use of
uniform allowances for upkeep of uniforms and (2) addition of language
giving the agency head discretion to furnish such uniforms out of funds
appropriated therefor, in lieu of a cash allowance.\"

The conference report changed the wording to allow expenditure of funds
only for

defraying uniform costs and disallows their use for maintenance of
uniforms.

####### Administrative and Legal Guidance

1\. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular No. A-30 (1966): The
circular implements the provisions of the Federal Uniform Allowance Act
(P.L. 89-554). It also establishes rules for allowances for temporary or
substitute employees: "...The amount payable to a temporary or
substitute employee who is otherwise eligible for a uniform allowance
shall be determined by adjusting the standard for an annual allowance to
take account of any reduced requirements which result from the limited
period and nature of employment...\"

The circular also established that the annual period to which the
limitation of the

uniform allowance ceiling applies for each employee begins with the date
on which the

employee first becomes eligible for a uniform or a uniform allowance
under the act.

2\. Comptroller General Decision B-166452 (1969): The decision stems
from a question which was raised regarding the legality of providing an
employee who changed uniform classes with the full amount of the new
allowance if the two together exceed the Congressionally specified
annual ceiling - \$125 at that time, \$400 at present. The Comptroller
General held that \"...both the statute and (the section of Circular No.
A-30 on annual allowances noted above) must be construed as
contemplating that the employee will remain subject to substantially the
same uniform requirements during the annual period to which
the\...limitation applies. To hold otherwise would, in our opinion,
constitute an unreasonable and illogical construction of the statute and
regulations.\" This has been interpreted by the Solicitor to mean that
the annual \$400 ceiling cannot be exceeded except in situations where
an employee completely changes uniform class, and these have been
defined by the agency as changes from dress to another field or vice
versa. No other adjustments that exceed the ceiling are permitted,
whether for seasonal changes, for changes within a class, or in
instances when an employee\'s adjusted initial allowance and replacement
allowance combine to total more than \$400.

3\. Departmental Manual (DM), Part 344, DM 1 - Financial Management:
Establishes standards and procedures for the payment of uniform
allowances to employees under relevant laws and guidelines.

4\. Departmental Manual, Part 370, DM, Addition to Federal Personnel
Manual (FPM): Establishes Department of the Interior policy on
eligibility and standards for granting

uniform allowances to employees.

5\. NPS Guideline, NPS-43 - Uniform Program Guideline: Establishes NPS
policies for the administration of the uniform program and standards for
the proper wear of the uniform. Replaced in 2000 by DO #43 and this
manual.

####### **Protective Clothing**

####### Laws

1\. Title 5, U.S.C., Section 7903 - P.L. 89-554 (1966): "Appropriations
available for the procurement of supplies and material or equipment are
available for the purchase and maintenance of special clothing and
equipment for the protection of personnel in the performance of their
assigned tasks.\"

2\. Title 29, U.S.C., Section 668 - P.L. 91-596 (1970); P.L. 97-375
(1982): "It shall be the responsibility of the head of each Federal
agency to establish and maintain an effective and comprehensive
occupational safety and health program\...The head of each agency shall
(after consultation with representatives of the employees
thereof\...acquire, maintain, and require the use of safety equipment,
personal protective equipment, and devices reasonably necessary to
protect employees\...\"

####### Regulations

1\. 29 CFR 1910.132 - 1910.136: Establishes the general requirements for
personal protective equipment and specific requirements for eye, face,
respiratory, head, and foot protection.

[Administrative and Legal Guidance]{.underline}

1\. Comptroller General Decision B-112031 (1952): \"Questions concerning
the propriety of furnishing special clothing and equipment to civilian
employees have been considered by this Office a number of times and it
has been held that where such equipment is essential to the safe and
successful accomplishment of the work involved and primarily for the
benefit of the Government, payment may be made from appropriations
otherwise available therefor; but that on the other hand, if the
equipment be solely for the protection of the employee without resulting
benefits to the Government, and such as the employee reasonably might be
expected to furnish as a part of the official equipment of his position,
appropriated funds would not be available for the purchase thereof.\"

2\. Comptroller General Decision B-174629 (1972): (Even though not
specifically mentioned in 29 CFR 1910.132a, protective) "...clothing
could be administratively determined to be necessary because of a
priority safety need established by the operation of the safety
management program prescribed under section 19 of the OSHA Act of 1970,
and Executive Order 11612. Accordingly, if the clothing and equipment in
question has been or is administratively determined to be necessary\",
then payment may be made from Government funds.

##### Badge and Arrowhead Insignia

[Statutes and Regulations]{.underline}

1\. Title 18, U.S.C., Section 701 (1948): \"Whoever manufactures, sells,
or possesses any badge, identification card, or other insignia, of the
design prescribed by the head of any department or agency of the United
States for use by any officer or employee thereof, or any colorable
imitation thereof, or in any other manner makes or executes any
engraving, photograph, print, or impression in the likeness of any such
badge, identification card, or other insignia, or any colorable
imitation thereof, except as authorized under regulations made pursuant
to law, shall be fined not more than \$250 or imprisoned not more than
six months, or both.\"

2\. 36 CFR, Part 11.1 - 11.3 (under authority of 16 U.S.C., Section 3):
"The term \'arrowhead symbol,\' as used in this part, refers to the
insignia of the National Park Service prescribed as its official
symbol\..."

\"The term \'commercial use\' as used in the regulations of this part
refers to use of (the

symbol) on souvenirs or other items of merchandise presented for sale to
the public by

private enterprise operating either within or outside of areas of the
National park

system.\"

\"The Director may permit the reproduction, manufacture, sale, and use
of the (symbol),

with or without charge, for uses that will contribute to purposes of
education and

conservation as they relate to the program of the National Park Service.
All other uses

are prohibited.\"

\"Permission granted under this part by the Director may be rescinded by
him at any time upon a finding that the use of the (symbol) is injurious
to their integrity or inconsistent with the purposes of the National
Park Service in the fields of conservation and recreation, or for
disregard of any limitations or terms contained in the permits.\"

####### Ornaments

The U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled that a policy that bans on-duty
employees from wearing union pins on their uniforms does not violate the
free speech rights for union employees.

####### Uniform Allowance System

Congress specifically authorized uniform allowances by P.L. 83-763,
passed in September of 1954. P.L. 94-458, which passed in October of
1976, authorized a \$400 annual ceiling for NPS uniformed employees.
Other agencies successfully sought similar legislation in subsequent
years. In 1990, Congress raised the annual allowance ceiling to \$400
for all non-military agencies.

**IV. REFERENCE MATERIAL**

######## SUBPART A: PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

# 1. MANAGING THE UNIFORM PROGRAM

# 

# Positions and Committees

### 

### [Servicewide Uniform Manager]{.underline}

-   Coordinates all matters pertaining to uniforms, standards, problems,
    and related issues.

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-   Prepares and disseminates directives, program updates, instructions,
    and other

> communications relating to Servicewide uniform matters.

-   Prepares and disseminates the Servicewide uniform guideline and all
    changes thereto.

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-   Evaluates problems, recommendations, and other issues, and advises
    the Directorate on appropriate actions.

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-   Serves as the contracting officer\'s representative for the uniform
    contract.

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-   Reviews and approves uniform component specifications.

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-   Ensures compliance on matters pertaining to the uniform program and
    uniform allowance system through established channels.

-   Appoints special work groups as appropriate, to represent
    communities of interest based on work activities, climate, or other
    criteria. These groups, whose tenure will vary according to current
    projects or issues, will guide the committee on issues pertinent to
    that community.

# Servicewide Uniform Committee

-   Consists of 12 members plus the Servicewide program manager as
    Chair.

-   Membership is made up of the seven regional uniform managers (or
    designees) and one member from each of the five major advisory
    groups (or designee) including: ranger activities, interpretation,
    maintenance, resource management, and administration.

-   All garments that are worn as part of, or with components of, the
    NPS uniform are subject to review by this committee, excepting
    personal protective equipment that is required by law or regulation.
    On approval, new components and their use are added as amendments to
    this reference manual.

-   Provides advice and counsel on the Servicewide uniform program
    including revisions to policy, the uniform supply contract and
    changes in apparel items. The committee reviews and acts upon
    recommendations for new or revised uniform items.

-   Additional details on this committee's roles and responsibilities
    may be contained in a statement issued by the Chief, Division of
    Ranger Activities, WASO.

-   Meets not less than every other year; funding provided by the WASO,
    Division of Ranger Activities.

-   Forwards recommendations to NPS management as directed by the
    Associate Director, Park Operations and Education, for approval.

-   Participates in special work groups as needed. These groups, whose
    tenure will vary according to current projects or issues, will guide
    the committee on issues pertinent to that community.

### [Regional Uniform Manager]{.underline}

-   An employee in a regional division representing a uniformed field
    division (i.e., protection, interpretation, maintenance, etc.).

-   Serves on the Servicewide uniform committee.

-   Serves as liaison between the field and the Servicewide uniform
    coordinator on all issues pertaining to the uniform program.

-   Works with the uniform company contractor to resolve problems with
    field areas that cannot be remedied at the park level.

-   Reviews problems and suggestions made by the field and takes
    appropriate action on them according to procedures outlined in this
    guideline.

-   Disseminates program memoranda and other information to all field
    areas promptly.

-   Advises and assists superintendents on issues pertaining to
    compliance with program.

-   Ensures that parks meet property management responsibilities
    outlined in this manual.

### [Park Uniform Coordinator and Uniform Committee]{.underline}

All NPS areas should have a park uniform coordinator who wears the
uniform daily. Parks that have a uniform committee should select
representatives from each uniformed division, and operate under a
charter from the superintendent. Responsibilities of the Coordinator
and/or the committee may include:

-   Administers the park's program including review of park uniform
    policies and recommend changes to the superintendent.

-   Resolves internal administrative problems;

-   Reviews and comments on suggestions for Servicewide program changes;

-   Serves as the primary information repository for the uniform program
    and advises the superintendent and staff on those aspects of its
    contents.

-   Acts as liaison between the regional coordinator and the park on all
    matters pertaining to the uniform program other than administrative
    matters.

-   Maintains a liaison with the park uniform program administrator and
    assures that program information is shared and that actions are
    jointly agreed on.

##### [Park Uniform Program Administrators]{.underline}

NPS areas may have more than one park uniform program administrator when
geographic or other circumstances warrant. Since almost all aspects of
the uniform program are structured with the organization code as the
basic administrative unit, parks with more than one park uniform program
administrator should assign additional administrators to specific
organizational codes.

-   Serves as primary information source on the administrative portions
    of the uniform program and advises the superintendent and staff on
    those aspects of its substance and contents.

-   Ensures that all reports, orders, authorizations, and allowances are
    accurate. Assures compliance with procedures for acquiring
    allowances, making orders, and returns, meeting closeout
    requirements, and conforming to all other administrative aspects.

-   Assures that uniform allowance authorizations are completed and
    informational packets for new and seasonal employees are sent
    expeditiously.

-   Coordinates uniform program activities with the park uniform program
    coordinator.

-   Resolves ordering problems with the uniform contractor.

-   Maintains a liaison with the park uniform program coordinator and
    ensures that program information is shared and that actions are
    jointly agreed on.

-   Maintains sufficient access to the NPS uniform program website to
    expedite efficient placement of orders.

##### [Uniform Contractor - Customer Service]{.underline} 

-   Serves as primary points of customer service contact for park
    employees, coordinators, and administrators.

-   **Does not** interpret NPS uniform program policies.

-   Presents problems that can\'t be resolved or forwards questions
    regarding interpretation of NPS policies to the attention of the
    contractor\'s Government contracts specialist.

# 

# 2. THE UNIFORMS

**Uniformed Positions**

DO #43, Subpart A, Section 5.1.2. requires a "condition of employment to
be signed by employees *prior to appointment to any uniformed position,
regardless of length of NPS service*. This statement must be used when
an employee enters into a new position (i.e., new position number) that
is designated as a uniformed position. Ideally, a position is designated
as a uniformed position when:

-   The vacancy announcement for the position contains a notice that the
    incumbent is required to wear the uniform in accordance with
    applicable policies and that the incumbent will be required to sign
    the condition of employment letter;

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-   The position description states the requirement to wear the NPS
    uniform; and

-   The selecting official informs the prospective employee that (s)he
    is being offered a uniformed position and will be required to sign a
    condition of employment statement.

The condition statement **cannot** be used when:

-   An employee receives a promotion or step increase within the same
    position (i.e. same position number).

-   A manager changes the position from a non-uniformed position to a
    uniformed position. The incumbent may volunteer to sign the
    condition statement, however.

##### Uniform Classes and Components

Uniform classes and components have been revised to delineate among
different uniforms according to function and provide discrete work
apparel for particular types of work. The intent is to provide managers
with a tool to readily identify the appropriate uniform and work apparel
for a particular task and to provide uniformed employees with clear
guidance on which components should be worn for those tasks.

*Service Uniform* Public contact positions (standard uniform)

*Field Uniform* Public contact positions where environmental conditions
dictate a more practical uniform

*Work Uniform* Work projects, backcountry use

![](media/image2.png){width="3.247916666666667in"
height="1.7791666666666666in"}

\[1930's --1940's ranger hat\]

  ---------------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- --------------------------
  **ITEM**               **SERVICE**   **FIELD**   **WORK**   **COMMENTS**

  Accessory, Badge       X             X                      

  Accessory, Badge Patch                           X          See Wear Standards

  Accessory, Belts, NPS  X             X           X          
  Embossed                                                    

  Accessory, Insignia,   X             Limited                See Wear Standards
  "USNPS"                                                     

  Accessory, Name Bar,   X             X                      See Wear Standards
  Brass                                                       

  Accessory, Name Bar,                             X          See Wear Standards
  Cloth                                                       

  Coat, Dress, 11 Oz.    X                                    Summer uniform; always
  Tropical                                                    with a tie

  Coat, Dress, 16 Oz.    X                                    Winter uniform; always
  Elastique                                                   with a tie

  Coat, 16 Oz., "Ike"    X                                    Summer or Winter; always
  Style                                                       with a tie

  Coveralls, 12 Oz.,                   Limited     X          Worn temporarily over
  Insulated                                                   other uniforms

  Coveralls, 8 Oz.,                    Limited     X          Worn temporarily over
  Uninsulated                                                 other uniforms

  Gaiters, Gore-Tex                    Limited     X          See wear Standards

  Gloves, Cowhide,       X             X           X          
  Thinsulate                                                  

  Gloves, Deerskin       X             X           X          

  Hat, Balaclava                       Limited     X          Winter uniform &
                                                              Mountaineering

  Hat, Ball cap, Mesh                  X           X          Summer Uniform

  Hat, Ball cap, Twill                 X           X          Winter Uniform

  Hat, Cotton, Wide Brim               Limited     X          

  Hat, Fur Trooper Style X             X           X          Winter Uniform &
                                                              Mountaineering

  Hat, Gore-Tex Nylon,                 Limited     X          Winter Uniform &
  with Flaps                                                  Mountaineering

  Hat, Ski cap, Acrylic                Limited     X          Winter Uniform &
  Knit                                                        Mountaineering

  Hat, Ski cap, Wool                   Limited     X          Winter Uniform &
  Knit                                                        Mountaineering

  Hat, Straw, "Ranger    X             X                      Summer Uniform
  Hat" \*                                                     

  Hat, Tan Felt, "Ranger X             X                      Winter uniform
  Hat" \*                                                     

  Jacket, 8 Oz. Twill                  X           X          
  \*\*                                                        

  Jacket, Cotton Duck                  Limited     X          
  \[new\]                                                     

  Jacket, Ecospun™       X             X           X          Could melt in maintenance
  Fleece                                                      situations

  Jacket, Windbreaker    X             X           X          

  Overshell, Hip Length  X             X           X          No Brass on Work Uniform
  \*\*                                                        

  Overshell, Waist       X             X           X          No Brass on Work Uniform
  Length \*\*                                                 

  Raincoat               X             X           X          

  Shirt, 10 Oz. Tropical X             X           X          Summer Uniform
  Service, SS                                                 

  Shirt, 10 Oz.,         X             X           X          Winter or Summer Uniform
  Tropical Service, LS                                        

  Shirt, 4.25 Oz.,       Limited       X           X          
  Poplin Field, SS                                            

  Shirt, 5.5 Oz. Twill                             X          Winter or Summer Uniform
  Work, LS                                                    

  Shirt, 5.5 Oz., Twill                            X          
  Work, SS                                                    

  Shirt, Maternity       X             X           X          Winter or Summer Uniform
  Smock, LS                                                   

  Shirt, Maternity       X             X           X          Summer Uniform Only
  Smock, SS                                                   

  Shoe, Backcountry                                X          
  Hiking Boot                                                 

  Shoe, Lightweight      X             X           X          
  Hiking Boot                                                 

  Shoe, Wellington Boot  X             X           X          

  Shoe, Work Boot                                  X          

  Shoes, Female, Low     X                                    
  Heel Pump                                                   

  Shoes, Low Quarter     X                                    
  Dress                                                       

  Shoes, Rocky Walker™   X             X           X          

  Shorts                               X           X          

  Skirt, 11 Oz.,         X                                    Summer Uniform
  Tropical                                                    

  Skirt, 16 Oz.,         X                                    Winter Uniform
  Elastique                                                   

  Socks, Dress Crew      X             X           X          

  Socks, Hiking          X             X           X          

  **ITEM**               **SERVICE**   **FIELD**   **WORK**   **COMMENTS**

  Socks, Mid-Calf, Boot  X             X           X          

  Socks, Over-Calf, Boot X             X           X          

  Sweater, "Commando"    X             X           X          
  Pullover                                                    

  Sweater, Turtleneck    Limited       X           X          

  Tie, Clip-On           X             X                      Always with tie tac; see
                                                              wear standard

  Tie, Female,           X             X                      
  Cross-Over                                                  

  Tie, Four-in-Hand      X             X                      Always with tie tac; see
                                                              wear standard

  Trousers, Brush                                  X          

  Trousers, Jeans                      Limited     X          

  Trousers, 11 Oz.       X                                    
  Tropical                                                    

  Trousers, 16 Oz.,      X                                    
  Elastique                                                   

  Trousers, 8 Oz., Twill               X           X          

  Trousers, Convertible                Limited     X          
  \[new\]                                                     

  Trousers, Maternity    X             X           X          

  Trousers, Rain/Wind    Limited       X           X          Temporarily over "Service"

  Vest, Insulated                      X           X          
  ---------------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- --------------------------

**Notes**:

\* Always worn with the embossed hatband. Hat covers worn in rain/snow;
chin strap optional.

\*\* Liners are only worn as a zipped-in component; never as an outer
garment.

"Limited" = use in this uniform category are limited to specified
duties, such as bike patrol, water operations, or foul weather.

##### [Service Uniform]{.underline}

*Use***:** Worn by employees in public contact positions and other
persons stipulated by regional directors and superintendents. Worn by
superintendents, division chiefs, managers, maintenance managers,
supervisors of public contact employees, and other non-maintenance
uniformed employees.

*Occasions for Wear***:** Routine, daily activities involving a high
degree of public contact or supervision of employees in public contact.
Examples include: operation of visitor centers, campgrounds, entrance
stations, and other visitor facilities; presentation of interpretive
programs; and frontcountry patrol by foot, vehicle, or horse.

*General Rules for Wear***:** The ranger hat is worn wherever possible.
Ranger hats with covers are normally worn in rain and snow. Hoods, knit
hats, and other foul-weather headgear are worn only when circumstances
dictate.

Although *Field Uniform* shirts are approved for this category, tropical
short-sleeve shirts are preferred and should be utilized wherever
possible.

##### [Field Uniform]{.underline}

*Use***:** Worn by employees engaged in visitor contact activities in
situations where the *Service Uniform* would be impractical or
inappropriate due to climate, terrain, or safety. Superintendents should
require the more formal *Service Uniform* when circumstances permit.
Worn by superintendents, division chiefs, managers, supervisors of
uniformed employees, and other non-maintenance, uniformed employees.
Maintenance supervisors may or may not fit in this category (e.g., when
the foreman position is a field supervisor with substantial hands-on
maintenance duties, this uniform should not be authorized for safety
reasons).

*Occasions for Wear***:** Routine, daily activities involving a high
degree of public contact or supervision of employees in public contact
in which the wearer is subject to adverse environmental conditions.
Examples include: outdoor activities in foul weather; interpretive walks
on unsurfaced trails; frontcountry patrols in mixed environments (e.g.,
roads, trails, open ground and boat patrols using hard-hulled craft);
horse patrols or resource management activities in areas highly visible
to the public.

##### 

##### [Work Uniform]{.underline}

*Use***:** Worn by employees engaged in daily or planned, **not
incidental** work projects and backcountry operations when warranted by
environmental and working conditions. Usually includes water operations
or protection or resource management duties that have little or no
public contact potential.

*Authorization for Wear***:** Authorized for wear by employees engaged
primarily in work duties and work projects, all wage-grade employees and
persons performing resource management work of a maintenance nature.

*Occasions for Wear***:** Daily wear in all work situations. Routine,
low visitor contact work and patrol activities. Examples include:
wilderness, backcountry, boundary, ski and boat patrols;
overnight-guided hikes; resource management activities in areas
generally not visible to the public.

##### [Maternity Uniform]{.underline}

*Use***:** Pregnant employees who are provided a supplement to their
regular allowances to acquire needed uniform components wear the
maternity uniform. Black maternity pants may be purchased on the open
market and worn in lieu of the pants provided in the program when a
proper, comfortable fit cannot be obtained.

*Occasions for Wear***:** Routine within-park activities.

##### [Formal Attire]{.underline}

*Use***:** Formal occasions where men would be expected to wear an
evening suit or 3-piece suit, women would be expected to wear a cocktail
dress, and military personnel would appear in their dress uniform with a
white shirt. This option is for management personnel and immediate staff
only. At the discretion of the senior manager, personnel can wear this
dress when attending a formal dinner, ball, or reception.

*Attire***:** A white dress shirt, purchased with personal funds, may be
worn under the NPS Dress Coat (summer or winter weight), when specified
by the senior manager of the event. On these occasions, the Dress Coat
is always worn; never taken off. The shirt will have 3 to 3 ½-inch
collar points (measured from the attachment at the neck to the point),
not buttoned-down. Shirt cuffs should extend no more than 1/8 inch
beyond the end of the coat sleeve, when standing with arms at the sides.
Footwear will conform to the Service uniform unless otherwise specified.

##### Special Work Apparel and Personal Protective Clothing

From time to time, a need arises for specialized clothing or uniforms
due to safety concerns or environmental conditions or working
conditions. Such uniforms may combine standard components with
specialized clothing or equipment not available from the uniform
contractor (see DO #43, Section 1, fourth bullet; Section 5.4.1.c and
5.5).

In these instances, the superintendent must identify tasks or procedures
that may have the potential for exposing employees to personal injury,
unusual environmental conditions, occupational health exposure, or tasks
that require special clothing*.* In such situations, the employee must
be provided with and use equipment and/or clothing necessary to

perform the task/work in a safe and healthful manner*.* Prescribed
uniform items will be worn with work apparel and/or personal protective
clothing or equipment to assure identification with the NPS.

Conditions that warrant special work apparel and personal protective
clothing may include:

## exposure to environmental hazards or extreme conditions (poisonous plants, ultraviolet radiation exposure, heat, cold, contaminants, others); 

## duties that require specialized clothing (water, flight, cave, and ski operations, painting, welding, law enforcement duties, fire operations, and some resource management duties); or 

## duties that require PPE clothing or equipment to meet OSHA or other published PPE standards.

When a determination of need has been completed, the superintendent
must:

-   identify special uniform categories and components required for
    specific uses;

-   consult with supervisors and park or Regional safety officers to
    determine applicable personal safety requirements;

-   list the uniform components that will be authorized and required
    under each category;

-   designate the employees or classes of employees who will wear these
    components;

-   purchase the components with park operating funds;

-   assure compliance with special uniform standards found below;

-   evaluate special uniform requirements and determine if they will be
    necessary to continue or modify the special uniform;

-   assure that safety components meet approved safety standards and
    adequately protect workers;

-   assure that employees wear safety components while engaged in
    associated tasks and ;

-   ensure compliance with loss control management and property
    management regulations, guidelines, and directives.

To maintain Servicewide uniformity, care must be taken to approve only
those apparel items that are **necessary** to the employee health and
safety and reject those that are *desired* for team identity or other
reasons. For example, orange safety vests, worn over standard uniform
components, should be the preferred option for bike patrol, traffic
control, and SAR missions, rather than approval of a local jacket.

####### Acquisition and Use

1\. Protective clothing and equipment that is for the protection of
employees engaged in hazardous work may be purchased with appropriated
funds. Employees are not required to purchase protective clothing and
equipment with personal funds or their uniform allowance. Details and
explanations of personal protective clothing and equipment can be found
in the NPS, DO #50B and RM #50B, Occupational Safety and Health Program.

2\. Special uniform items may also be procured with appropriated funds.
See Comptroller General Decision B-112031 for specific authority
regarding purchase of

such \"special clothing\" for employees. Protective clothing worn while
employed by the Service in any of the following categories is deemed to
be of benefit to the Government.

3\. Employees must wear PPE and protective clothing provided by the
Service when performing specified tasks.

4\. Special clothing shall be worn only when the employee is performing
specified tasks.

5\. Protective clothing and equipment are property of the Government and
are subject to property management guidelines.

The following are **EXAMPLES of work apparel** as they should be
specified at a park to meet special work situations. Approved colors for
over-the-counter options should be standardized to keep variations to
the absolute minimum. When available and appropriate, forest green
should be preferred for upper body garments (other than shirts) and
trousers.

##### [Lifeguard Uniform]{.underline}

##### Only persons assigned to and engaged in lifeguard duties wear this uniform.

-   The basic uniform will consist of a \[color specified\] swim suit or
    trunks (a specified vendor that silk-screens the NPS arrowhead on
    the trunks/suits should be used);

-   Cover up garments may either be uniform components from the uniform
    contractor, or where increased visibility is required, color
    coordinated open market garments.

## [Ski and Backcountry Winter Uniform]{.underline}

-   Only persons assigned to ski patrol, Nordic, snowmobile, snowshoe,
    and related operations wear this uniform.

-   The basic uniform will be the *Field* or *Work Uniform*, depending
    on park needs. The arrowhead patch will be worn on outer garments to
    increase identification.

-   Area options consist of:

> black ski pants and top (under the uniform shirt);
>
> green, or black snowmachine suit and green, or white helmet, as duties
> require;
>
> green Filson cruiser coat;
>
> green, gray, or black wool knickers;
>
> ski gloves;
>
> gray, wool knee socks; and
>
> ski boots or other designated footwear.

### [Horse Patrol Uniform]{.underline}

-   Worn by employees assigned to horseback operations.

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-   The basic uniform will be the *Service* or *Field Uniform*,
    depending on park needs.

-   Area options consist of:

plain western cordovan riding boots;

equestrian rain slicker;

jodhoppers; and

plain leather chaps **only** when safety is a concern.

## [Motorcycle or Trailbike Patrol Uniform]{.underline}

-   Worn by employees assigned to patrol duties using these vehicles.

-   The basic uniform will be the *Service* or *Field Uniform*,
    depending on park needs.

-   Area options consist of:

gray, green, or white motorcycle helmet;

helmet face shield or goggles;

riding gloves; and

> Wellington-style cordovan boot at least 10 inches high (footwear with
> extremely pointed toes and/or high heels are expressly prohibited).

## [Bicycle Patrol Uniform]{.underline}

-   Worn by employees who are actually performing patrols by bicycle.

-   The basic uniform will be the *Field* or *Work Uniform*, depending
    on area needs.

-   Area options consist of:

gray, green, black or white, safety-approved bicycle helmet;

dark-green bike shorts;

Orange safety vest;

a lightweight, flexible nylon belt;

> gray, green, or black bicycle gloves;
>
> pant leg straps;
>
> gray or brown socks; and

gray or black tennis shoes or lightweight boots.

## [Water Operations Uniform]{.underline}

-   Worn by employees who are actually performing water-related or
    watercraft operations.

-   The basic uniform will be the *Field* or *Work Uniform*. The badge
    patch may be worn on the left breast of survival suits and/or
    personal flotation devices.

-   Area options consist of:

wetsuit; shorts, swimsuit, T-shirt;

flotation jacket or survival suit;

sweat suits;

foul weather gear; and

> brown, green, or white leather or canvas boat shoes, or other
> appropriate footgear.

## [Flight Operations Uniform]{.underline}

-   Worn by employees involved in special use flight operations (other
    than firefighting) where law enforcement, visitor, and other
    contacts are anticipated in immediate connection with the flight.

-   The basic uniform will be a standard, military-style, green
    flight-suit constructed of polyamide or aramid cloth with an NPS
    arrowhead on the left shoulder; gloves, in either of the options
    described below; and cordovan or black leather boots with uppers
    that are safely overlapped by the legs of the flight-suit.

-   Area options consist of:

> Military-green flight gloves constructed of fire-resistant fabric
> (when in the aircraft);

uniform leather gloves (when in the aircraft);

> white, SPH-4 or SPH-5 helmet (inside the aircraft or in flight
> operations);

approved defensive equipment belt (law enforcement);

approved shoulder holster and defensive gear (law enforcement);

> leather, military-style name/badge insignia patch on front left breast
> attached to a Velcro™ patch with approved NPS badge patch (law
> enforcement and interpretation) over right breast pocket; **or**
>
> green fabric, military-style name strip with black letters sewn over
> right breast pocket with NPS gold badge over left breast pocket (law
> enforcement and interpretation);
>
> brown or green waders where allowed by Office of Aircraft Safety, such
> as in float plane operations where water safety considerations are a
> significant factor.

## [Incident Management Team Uniform]{.underline}

-   Worn by members of incident-management-overhead teams who do not
    normally wear uniforms, such as finance and logistics personnel, but
    who need clear identification with the NPS.

-   This category does not include members of strike teams, who are
    normally in uniform. On multi-agency teams, normally uniformed
    employees who are in civilian clothes may wear an NPS ball cap for
    identification.

-   The basic uniform will consist of:

uniform ball cap;

team vest identifying the employee\'s function within the team; and

NPS name bar or name tag.

# Out-of-Park Duties

When an out-of-park assignment, such as training, detail assignments,
special events, and international travel requires wearing the NPS
uniform, all uniformed employees must comply with the receiving area's
uniform standards, including appearance standards. This is necessary to
preserve the integrity of the receiving area's standards. **Employees
that are unwilling to comply must turn down the assignment, or
specifically request a waiver ahead of time in writing**. Failure on the
employee's part to notify the receiving area of deviations from local
standards may mean that the employee will have to reimburse the
Government for any expenses incurred.

### Special Event Uniforms

Uniform consistency within a work discipline (e.g., maintenance, visitor
assistance, and crowd control) is **required** at all public events. The
person exercising general oversight for the event will designate which
uniform will be worn for the event as far ahead of time as possible.
Field supervisors are responsible for assuring maximum uniform
consistency among participating employees.

##### 

##### *International Travel*

NPS employees who represent the Service while visiting national parks in
foreign countries are strongly encouraged to wear their uniform when
meeting with or attending ceremonies where employees from the host
country are in uniform or when the NPS employee is conducting training
or attending a conference for or with uniformed employees. Carrying
defensive equipment is never appropriate unless specifically requested
by the country and authorized by the U.S. State Department. As a general
rule, personal appearance, grooming, and adornment must be conservative.

####### *Attendance at Training*

For training courses that require wearing the uniform and last 14 days
or less, employees are expected to continue to comply with their home
unit's uniform and appearance standards. When uniforms are required for
courses of 15 days and more, employees will conform to uniform and
appearance standards set by the training institution, if applicable.
During longer training sessions, attendees are more likely to appear in
public places a significant amount of time, reflecting on the training
institution. Therefore, it is important to comply with local standards,
particularly for appearance. Course coordinators are responsible for
providing instruction to attendees on proper uniform wear and appearance
for longer sessions.

##### *Detail Assignments and Other Temporary Duty* 

When the NPS uniform is required to be worn, the host manager will
inform the incumbent ahead of time about local uniform requirements and
incumbents will comply with that standard.

**3. WEAR AND APPEARANCE STANDARDS**

##### Rules for Wear

####### Seasons and Transitions

1\. Parks will have defined summer and winter seasons where appropriate.
A single

uniform is acceptable for year-round wear in areas where climate
dictates. Where climatic conditions vary within the park (e.g., due to
elevational change), the winter and summer uniforms may be worn
year-round. However, effort should be made to insure that work units
wear matching uniforms and that summer and winter components are never
mixed.

2\. Superintendents will designate transition periods when either the
summer or winter uniform will be permitted. Concerted effort will be
made to assure that all members within an operating unit wear a single
standard uniform during the transition period.

3\. During winter and summer seasons, superintendents may approve
exemptions for the wearing of uniforms from the alternative season where
need dictates, as long as there is consistency within the operating
unit.

4\. Long sleeve shirts may be worn with either summer or winter uniforms
to accommodate environmental protection (poisonous plant, sun exposure,
etc.) and work protection (for such hazards as welding sparks and barbed
wire). The tie is never worn with the summer uniform.

**Name Bar Standards**

Providing information about the NPS and who we are is an important
service to park visitors. This personalizes visitor contacts, allows for
greater interaction, and provides an avenue for feedback. Therefore, a
name bar (brass on the Service and Field Uniforms; cloth on the Work
Uniform) will always be worn on upper-body outer garments. Every name
bar must contain the employee's full last name and first name or first
initial(s). Name bars never contain titles such as "Mr.," "Mrs.," "Dr.,"
or "Ph.D." Cloth name bars cannot accommodate as many characters as the
brass name bars and may not, except for shorter names, accommodate the
full first name.

# Uniform Wear Standards

Certain rules apply to overall appearance. All uniforms and uniform
components must meet the following minimal standards:

-   They must be clean and neat at the beginning of the workday.

-   They must not be frayed and particular attention should be paid to
    collar points and cuffs.

-   They must be free of excessive wear, including worn areas, shiny
    spots, holes, or missing buttons.

-   They must be free of offensive odor.

-   They must be clean and free of spots, stains, soil or any other
    foreign substance.

-   They must not be faded. Fading is defined as when a uniform item is
    noticeably lighter in coloration than a comparable new item.

-   They must be free from pilling, (i.e., when small balls of material
    appear on the exterior of worn clothing).

-   All items should be ordered (or altered to) sizes that prevent
    **excessive** tightness or bagginess.

Additionally:

-   Pants and shirt pockets should be free of bulges. Items in shirt and
    pants pockets should not stick out, be readily apparent, be more
    than a ½-inch thick or distract from uniform appearance.

-   T-shirts must never be visible under shirts (either at the neck
    **or** at the sleeves) or worn alone as a uniform shirt. Colored and
    patterned T-shirts are not permitted.

-   *Service and Field Uniforms* **are incomplete without badges and
    name bars**. Each employee will be issued a minimum of two badges
    and two name bars, one for the uniform shirt, one for jackets and
    outerwear. Normally, three badges will be issued in order to provide
    employees with sufficient flexibility in changing uniforms. (also
    see the section "Name Bar Standards" above)

-   Sunglasses may be worn with uniforms, but sunglasses that are dark
    enough to make it difficult or impossible to see the employee\'s
    eyes should be worn in visitor contact situations only when
    absolutely necessary. Mirrored sunglasses are prohibited. Sunglasses
    rims must be in conservative colors such as gray, black, or brown;
    bright or neon colors are prohibited.

§

# Wear Standards Specific to a Garment

*Dress Coats*: Elastique and Tropical Dress Coats and "Ike" Coat

![](media/image3.png){width="2.9944444444444445in"
height="2.2819444444444446in"}

-   always worn with a necktie.

-   The end of the coat\'s sleeves should be at the wrist bone. Shirt
    sleeves should be no more than an 1/8-inch beyond sleeve ends.

-   Front buttons are buttoned at all times; the "Ike" coat is
    fully-zipped.

-   The summer (tropical) coat is worn with summer pants or skirt. The
    elastique (winter) coat is worn with winter pants or skirt. Mixing
    of fabrics is not permitted.

-   Always worn with "USNPS" collar insignia, badge, and name tag.
    **All** items must be on the coat and in the proper position.

-   Law enforcement equipment may not be worn with the Elastique or
    Tropical Dress Coat.

##### *Shirts*:

-   All buttons are to be buttoned, with particular attention placed on
    the pocket and sleeve-vent buttons. The top button of the long
    sleeve shirt can be left unfastened only when the shirt is worn with
    a turtleneck or with the summer uniform. The top button is the only
    button that is to be left unbuttoned on the short sleeve shirt.

-   Turtlenecks or ties are **never** worn with the short sleeve shirt.

-   Long sleeve shirts are always worn with a tie when in the winter
    *Service Uniform* and worn either with a tie or turtleneck in the
    winter *Field Uniform*; ties are never worn with the winter *Work
    Uniform*.

-   Sleeves on the long-sleeve shirt must never be rolled when in a
    situation in which public contact is likely.

-   There should be no spread between front buttons when sitting; if
    there is, the shirt is too tight.

-   Shirts should always be tucked in and "bloused," where the shirt is
    gathered at the sides or in back and tucked in so that the front is
    smooth. A straight line should be maintained through the shirt
    buttons, belt buckle, and fly.

-   Pens and pencils must not visibly protrude more than a quarter inch
    from the tops of pockets. The clip must be under the pocket flap.
    Nothing should be carried in the pockets that are thicker than
    ½-inch.

-   When wearing the *Work Uniform*, sleeves must be rolled down and
    buttoned except in situations where safety, soiling, or the work
    situation necessitates that they be rolled up.

-   T-shirts must never be visible under shirts at the neck or the
    sleeves.

-   Shirts will always be tucked in.

##### *Trousers* 

-   Seam creases must be apparent in Service Uniform pants.

-   All pants are to be hemmed to the proper length.

-   Bottoms of pants must hang no lower than the heel welt and no higher
    than 3 inches above the ground.

-   Pants bottoms should be as close to parallel with the ground as
    possible and should not be cuffed or rolled up.

-   Waistbands on pants should not roll outward.

-   Flaps on pants pockets must cover the pocket. Items placed in
    pockets should not cause obvious bulges. Nothing should be carried
    in a pocket that is thicker than ½-inch.

-   The tab on the rear pocket of the twill pants should be buttoned.

####### *Skirts*

-   Skirts must be free from wrinkles, shiny surfaces, and bagginess.

-   All skirts are hemmed.

-   Bottoms of skirts must be no shorter than mid-knee and no longer
    than 3 inches below the knee.

-   Waistbands on skirts should not roll outward.

####### *Convertible Trousers and Shorts*

-   Shorts may only be worn with the *Field* or *Work Uniform* and in
    parks where extreme climatic conditions warrant their use.

-   Shorts are worn either without socks or with solid, plain, gray,
    rag-wool socks (with boat shoes) or with solid, plain, gray,
    rag-wool or brown hiking socks (with hikers).

-   Detachable legs on the convertible trousers must be the same color
    shade as the main garment (usually obtained by washing the legs
    every time the main garment is laundered).

-   Detachable leg portions on the convertible trousers must be fully
    zipped on or off; never partly open.

-   Always worn with the NPS-embossed belt in the frontcountry and for
    public contact work

####### 

####### *Raincoat*

-   Must be worn either fully-zipped or fully-opened.

-   May be worn only when it is precipitating.

-   Older raincoats with orange linings will not to be worn reversed;
    orange vests acquired as PPE, will be worn instead.

####### *Hip and Waist Length Parkas*

-   *Service* or *Field Uniform* parkas are always worn with a badge and
    a name tag.

-   Defensive equipment is worn only with the waist-length parka. The
    storm-flap should be buttoned to the height that the zipper is
    closed on both parkas.

-   The waist length parka should be long enough to reach the belt and
    cover the whole shirt.

####### *Overshell*

-   The side zipper on the overshell should be closed when not in use
    with defensive equipment. When opened to accommodate such equipment,
    the snap should be closed at the bottom behind the holster or radio
    case.

-   Velcro™ wrist closures must always be closed.

-   Overshells are always worn with a badge and a name tag.

# *Hoods*

-   Hoods are only worn on coats in foul weather or when foul weather is
    imminent.

-   Hoods and the ranger hat must not be worn together.

####### *Windbreaker*

-   The badge and name tag will be worn on windbreakers with badge and
    name tag tabs. Name tags must be centered on the name tag tab.

####### *Rain/Wind Pant or Gaiters*

-   Rain/wind pants and gaiters are normally worn fully-zipped, snapped,
    and strapped but may be worn open when exertion requires venting.

-   Excess strap on gaiters must be tucked in and not left dangling.

####### *Field and Work Jackets*

-   Pockets and cuffs are to be buttoned on the twill work jacket.

-   USNPS insignia are worn on the Field jacket (twill fabric) collars
    when worn with the Field Uniform unless safety concerns dictate
    otherwise.

-   Field jackets are always worn with a badge and a nametag when in
    *the Field Uniform*.

##### *Coveralls*

-   Coveralls should be snapped except for the top snap wherever
    practical.

-   Coveralls are authorized for *Field* and *Work Uniforms* but should
    not be worn as a substitute for the uniform except in very hot
    climatic conditions.

-   The zipper should be closed.

####### *Gloves*

-   Gloves are worn with Velcro™ closures closed and snaps snapped.

####### *Vest*

-   The vest is worn as part of the layering system. When worn as
    outerwear with the *Field Uniform*, the badge and name bar will be
    attached.

####### *Turtlenecks*

-   Turtlenecks are always worn under a long-sleeve shirt.

-   The neck portion must be folded over one time.

-   Turtlenecks should be free of fading and pilling.

-   Dickies that have the same neck appearance as the supplied
    turtleneck may be worn; provided that they are black and not faded.

####### *Pullover "Commando"-style Sweater*

-   The sweater is worn with a badge and name tag with the *Service*
    *and Field Uniforms* and without any metal accoutrements with the
    *Work Uniform*.

-   The sweater should be worn full length except with law enforcement
    equipment.

-   Sweater cuffs must be folded back.

####### Ranger Hats and Accessories

**The** **ranger hat is the most important, recognized and respected
symbol associated with the NPS**, and should be worn with pride and care
with the *Service Uniform* outdoors or in an entrance station, and in
most situations with the *Field Uniform*. Exceptions are limited to:

-   extreme cold weather;

-   highly windy environments;

-   vehicle law enforcement patrol in which the need to respond quickly
    to a potentially hazardous law enforcement or emergency incident
    precludes the immediate wearing of the hat;

-   exigent circumstances as identified by an authorized person (e.g.,
    superintendent) at the park.

Additionally:

-   The brim of the ranger hat must be blocked flat and free from nicks
    and warping.

-   Ranger hats must be clean and unstained.

-   No hair may hang below the brim on the wearer\'s forehead.

-   The brim of the ranger hat is worn level, approximately two fingers
    above the eyebrow. Canting (slanted sideways) and tipping (slanted
    front to back) of the hat, even slightly, are not permitted.

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-   The hatband is to be worn with the USNPS logo centered in the front.
    Both leather and metal cones must be polished, and the ties should
    be wrapped according to instructions.

> ![](media/image4.png){width="5.586805555555555in"
> height="1.0597222222222222in"}

####### 

####### 

####### 

####### ![](media/image5.png){width="4.9840277777777775in" height="1.238888888888889in"}

####### 

####### 

####### 

-   The top of the chinstrap is to be worn **under** the hatband, and
    the strap is to be mounted on the back of the hat and worn on the
    back of the head with the buckle

-   The top of the chinstrap is to be worn **under** the hatband, and
    the strap is to be mounted on the back of the hat and worn on the
    back of the head with the buckle centered.

-   Rain covers are to be worn **over** the hatband with the seam in
    back and loose plastic snugged down. Rain covers are worn only on
    the ranger hat.

####### 

####### *Fur Trooper Cap*

-   Trooper caps are not worn with flaps and chin straps down and/or
    strapped except in extreme weather conditions. When flaps are worn
    down, the strap is snapped either under the chin or behind the head.

-   Badges are not permitted on the front flap of the cap.

####### *Ball Caps*

-   Worn level with the bill two fingers above the eyebrow and centered
    in front.

-   Adjustable straps must be snapped.

-   Cap bills may be rolled but not creased.

-   A **neck drape** may be added for sun protection when in the *Work
    Uniform* and away from routine public view (backcountry, river/surf,
    or maintenance duties away from public view) provided: 1) the drape
    is a solid color such as forest green, steel gray, or brown (or
    other color as proscribed in local standards); 2) the color is
    consistent within the work group; 3) all exposed edges of the fabric
    are hemmed; and 4) the drape does not extend lower than 2 inches
    below the bottom of the collar and not more than ½-inch in front of
    the ears.

##### *Wide-Brimmed Cotton Hat*

-   Worn with the brim level (see standard for ranger hat)

-   Worn with the neck strap behind the neck unless needed to hold the
    hat on the head against wind, river rapids, etc.

-   Never modified to hold the brim in a position(s) different from
    supplier shipped (i.e., no Velcro™, pins, or other method to hold
    the brim up to the crown; chin strap is not used to hold the brim in
    a "cowboy hat" style)

-   Must be replaced once excessive fading or sweat stains are
    noticeable.

####### *Ties and Tie Tack*

-   Metal clip on the clip-on tie must not be visible, and the tabs must
    be under collar wings.

-   Four-in-hand tie must have a symmetrical, closed knot that is fully
    snug at the neck with no shirt showing above the knot.

-   The tip of the tie will be no higher than 1-inch above the belt
    buckle and no lower than the middle of the buckle.

-   Cross ties are tied with the snap crossing over from the right.

-   Ties should be free of wrinkles, stains and fading.

-   Tie tack is always worn attached to the shirt by the tie-tack chain.

-   Tie tack is centered on a line between the pocket flap buttons on
    the *Service Uniform* shirt.

-   Tie tack must not be visible when worn with the dress coat.

-   Tie tack is never worn with civilian attire.

####### *NPS Embossed Belt*

-   Belts should always be highly polished and should never be scuffed,
    abraded, or worn.

-   No accoutrements may be carried on the belt (e.g., keys, knives,
    sunglass case) when wearing formal attire. Accoutrements in all
    other classes **must be commensurate with and necessary for the
    duties being performed**. Particular attention will be paid to
    minimizing the number of keys carried on dress belts. Straps and
    cases for approved accoutrements must be cordovan in color wherever
    possible.

-   Only NPS uniform supplier-provided and current-issue buckles may be
    worn on the belts.

##### *Socks and Hosiery*

-   Socks must be brown, must not sag, and must be free of patterns,
    holes, pilling, or any signs of excessive wear. Official uniform
    socks will be worn whenever possible.

-   Socks are not required with boat shoes when on boats.

-   Nylon hosiery must be skin-toned, plain and free of runs, seams,
    patterns, glitter and any other embellishments. Nylons must be worn
    when wearing dress shoes and a skirt.

## Shoes and Boots

-   Any shoe must be highly polished and free of streaks, scuffs,
    cracks, and breaks.

-   Only brown laces are permitted.

-   Work and hiking boots should be in good condition and shined,
    although a high degree of polishing is not expected except when
    special circumstances dictate.

-   Boat shoes must be cleaned, in good condition, and well oiled, if
    leather.

-   Resoled shoes must have dark welts and dark stitching. Vibram™ soles
    are not permitted on dress shoes.

-   Dress shoes are worn only with dress socks and dark brown laces.

-   Parks are authorized to purchase backcountry and technical climbing
    boots according to local standards. Boots must conform as closely in
    color and style to uniform program boots as possible. Brightly
    colored boots are inappropriate and are not permitted.

-   Steel-toed work boots are PPE and should be purchased directly by
    parks. A determination must first be made that they are required
    PPE, however, and this should be done in accord with park and
    regional safety officers and appropriate guidelines.

## [Accessories]{.underline}

## Name Tags

-   The NPS name bar with the arrowhead insignia is worn **only** with
    civilian clothes and never on the uniform.

-   Name tags should be clean and free of nicks and scratches.

-   Name tags are worn over the right pocket. They must be level,
    centered and 1/8-inch (the width of a nickel) above the top of the
    pocket flap.

## Badge

-   The badge must be worn vertically and must shine. Care must be taken
    to use only non-abrasive materials when polishing the badge, since
    the thin gold coating may be easily removed.

-   The badge is pinned through the tabs provided on garments.

*USNPS Insignia*

-   USNPS collar insignia must be bright and untarnished.

-   Consistency among uniformed employees, whether within a park during
    normal operations or at a special event, should be the guiding
    principal.

-   The insignia are to be worn **horizontal** to the ground and
    centered in the points of the lapel. Although the angle of lapel
    cuts varies by garment, the insignia should always be level with the
    ground and centered.

## Commemorative Pins

-   See D.O. #43, Section 5.2.6.

-   Special pins will only be worn when approved in writing by the
    Associate Director, Park Operations and Education and will have
    specific effective and sunset dates, not exceeding 1 year.

-   The pin must be proposed, in writing, by the superintendent and/or
    regional director.

-   The proposed pin must include a justification and an example of the
    pin.

-   Proposed pins must commemorate an event or observance that is
    significant to the NPS, or a unit of the Service, its history or
    mission, and have some interest or educational value for the public.

-   The pin must be produced by the NPS, a unit thereof, or be licensed
    or contracted to be produced by an authorized agent of the Service.

-   The largest dimension must not exceed 7/8-inch.

-   Authorized pins will only be worn on shirts; centered ¼-inch above
    the name bar.

-   The requestor shall insure that pins are removed from all uniforms
    immediately upon expiration of the approval.

####### Other and Options

*Law Enforcement Leather Gear*

-   All law enforcement leather gear must be cordovan in color and
    highly polished.

-   Velcro-lined inner utility belts are **never** worn alone when in
    public view.

####### 

####### *Scarves*

-   Scarves must be brown (same brown as the socks).

## Handbags

-   When used in public view, handbags must be brown, cordovan, or black
    in color; conservative in style; and modest in size. They should not
    detract from the uniform.

## Day Packs and Fanny Packs

-   Packs should be dark-green, brown, or black in color and free of
    patches and all other decorations.

## Eyeglass, Sunglass and Retaining Straps

-   Sunglasses may be worn with uniforms. Sunglasses which are dark
    enough to make it difficult or impossible to see the employee's eyes
    should not be worn in visitor contact situations except when
    absolutely necessary, such as when prescribed by a doctor for light
    sensitivity.

-   Mirrored sunglasses are prohibited.

-   Sunglass rims must be a conservative color (e.g., gray, black, or
    brown); bright or neon colors are prohibited.

-   Retaining straps must be brown, dark gray, dark-green, or black.

-   Glasses on straps must hang so that neither the strap nor glasses
    obscure the badge or name tag.

## Belt Cases

-   Cases for glasses, Leatherman-type tools, gloves, and similar items
    must be either dark brown or black.

##### *Umbrellas*

-   Must be black when used in public view.

## [Obsolete Uniform Components]{.underline}

Employees will be allowed to wear discontinued uniform components for
reasonable periods of time following the component\'s removal from the
uniform program. Dates when such components may no longer be worn will
be established for those items that have been significantly changed. In
cases when component specifications have not been changed significantly,
uniform articles may be worn for the life of the item. The program
manager in consultation with management and the Servicewide Uniform
Committee will determine which items will be formally terminated and the
date of their obsolescence. Components and dates will be published as
periodic addendum to this reference manual.

# Temporary Suspension of Standards for Exigent Circumstances and Waivers

On rare and limited occasions it may be necessary to briefly suspend all
or portions of the Servicewide uniform standards. A situation might (but
not necessarily) include, and is not limited to:

-   natural disasters where agency identification is required/desired
    but employees homes (and uniforms) are wholly or partly
    inaccessible, or destroyed;

-   very unusual and unanticipated work assignment where the uniform
    poses a health or safety risk;

-   extreme climatic conditions of short duration.

Suspension of standards should only take place when employee
identification is necessary **and** access to complete uniforms is
impractical or when wearing the uniform creates a clear health risk or
hazard. Managers will make every effort to communicate the nature,
duration, and extent of the suspension as well as the required
resumption date.

*Waivers*: Individuals may request a waiver from the superintendent from
wearing specific uniform garment or component **only** based on one of
the following:

> 1\. Documented allergic reaction to the apparel item; or

2.  Uniform contractor cannot supply the right size or fit.

When such a waiver is granted, the employee assumes full responsibility
and cost for obtaining approved, comparable item(s) from the open
market.

# Burial in Uniform

Employees may be buried in uniform when requested by the employee or
family. In the case of line-of-duty death, the Service encourages the
family to consider this method of burial. The employee should be buried
in the dressiest uniform that they were entitled to wear during their
service. For employees entitled to wear controlled accoutrements, the
park will excess the appropriate items to allow burial with full collar
brass and badge compliment.

**§Personal Appearance Standards**

## [Background]{.underline}

Federal courts and regulatory agencies have established or supported
personal appearance standards (that is, standards for personal adornment
and makeup and for hair length, style and type) for Government employees
as long as they are reasonable and are related to performance or public
expectations. Certain distinctions are made between different types of
uniformed employees.

Several court cases, including [Lowman v. Davies]{.underline} (1983) and
[Jacobs v. Kune]{.underline} (1976), have established that personal
appearance standards may be set for uniformed employees outside of the
law enforcement and emergency service community since they serve the
public and represent the interests of the employing agency.

## [Objectives]{.underline}

The NPS has established personal appearance standards for its uniformed
personnel in order to:

-   Maintain a neutral image that encourages approachability and
    interactions with the broadest spectrum of the visiting public.

-   Assure employee safety.

-   Maintain the positive appearance that the public has come to
    associate with the service while embracing diversity.

-   Promote relations with cooperating organizations with similar
    standards.

-   Maintain good order and discipline which is a part of uniformity
    among all uniformed employees.

Regions, clusters, and/or parks may be more restrictive based on surveys
of local or regional standards as established by comparable
organizations (e.g., local or regional law enforcement agencies,
professional organizations, and corporate organizations with similar
public service functions).

## [Standards]{.underline}

Employees must recognize that the public will often judge the
effectiveness of the NPS based upon its first impressions. A uniformed
employee who is inattentive to his/her personal appearance reflects an
unfavorable image not only on her/himself, but on the entire Park
Service.

Distinction is drawn between the grooming required for males and
females. This does not reflect any difference in the degree to which it
is imperative that female or male employees are well groomed; rather it
reflects norms and expectations by the public of grooming standards by
the two sexes. These expectations and norms are critical to the
recognition, cooperation and approachability by the public.

Personal appearance standards are set for two categories for uniformed
employees. Employees with mixed duties that fall into the two categories
will meet the more restrictive standard. Wherever safety considerations
impose more conservative standards, those standards will apply. The
standards apply equally to **all** uniformed employees in each category.

The components of official employee uniforms are specified in Subpart A,
Section 2 of this manual. Modifications to the uniform and personal
adornments must be minimized. **Personal adornments** are any items not
specifically included in the official uniform item list located in
Section 2, of Subpart A of this manual, including but not limited to:
tattoos, jewelry, pins, buttons, fingernail polish, body piercing, and
elective body modifications. The following Servicewide restrictions
apply to personal adornments, unless specifically superceded by a
regional, cluster, state, or local standard:

-   *General*: Persons choosing to accept a uniformed position are
    required to minimize personal adornments while wearing the NPS
    uniform.

-   *Tattoos* will be physically covered to the greatest extent
    possible.

-   *Jewelry* must not unreasonably detract from the overall appearance
    of the uniform. Excessive numbers, large size, and bright or
    contrasting colors of jewelry may create an unprofessional
    appearance. In addition, supervisors and managers may have to limit
    jewelry wear for safety reasons.

-   *Earrings.* Men are not authorized to wear earrings. Women may wear
    matching earrings, no more than two per lobe. Earring size must not
    detract from the overall appearance of the uniform.

-   *Rings and Studs* associated with body piercing must be removed
    (where visible) while in uniform.

-   *Elective body modifications* must never be visible.

-   *Fingernails* must not be over ¼-inch long on women and closely
    trimmed on men. Women may wear polish that is a conservative shade,
    complementary to their skin color or to the uniform colors. Men may
    not wear nail polish.

[Law enforcement and emergency service personnel]{.underline}

####### *Rationale*

####### Courts have made it clear that law enforcement and emergency service personnel are clear representatives of authority who need to be readily recognizable to the public. They need to project a neutral image, thereby minimizing public antagonism in everyday contacts, whether or not cooperation or recognition is needed. The assurance of impartiality is essential to their function. Attention is necessary to minimize safety hazards to employees who are often in physically dangerous situations.

*Standards*:

-   Beards no longer than 2 inches in length are permitted. Beards must
    be long enough to indicate that the beard is intentional rather than
    giving the appearance that the wearer has been negligent in shaving.
    For this reason, beards must be grown during off-duty time. Beards
    and moustaches must be neatly trimmed.

-   Firefighters, divers, and those on Hazardous Materials Teams
    (HazMat) must keep their beards short enough to be able to maintain
    a seal on a self-contained breathing apparatus.

-   Hair may be longer than the bottom of the uniform shirt collar only
    if properly confined and contained while on duty. Bangs must be
    above eyebrows. Any form of haircut or hair style that draws more
    attention than the uniform and detracts from the wearer\'s
    authority, such as cuts that produce patterns, designs or
    contrasting lengths, is prohibited. Sideburns must be no longer than
    the bottom of the ear.

-   Coloration not normally found in human hair, or any coloration which
    is employed to produce unnatural hair patterns through contrasting
    hair colors is prohibited.

-   Makeup and adornment should conform to standards established for law
    enforcement officers in the local area. Neither makeup nor adornment
    should distract from the uniform, interfere with job performance or
    present a safety hazard. Tattoos must not be visible.

-   See also NPS Reference Manual #9, Chapter 6 for law enforcement
    personnel.

*Exemptions*: Commissioned rangers engaged in undercover or covert
operations may be exempted from these standards with the approval of the
park\'s chief ranger.

[All other Uniformed Employees]{.underline}

*Rationale*

These uniformed employees are in the public eye (occasionally or
frequently) and therefore, have an affirmative responsibility to
maintain the positive and neutral image of uniformed NPS employees.
Proper personal appearance emphasizes professional competence and
expertise.

####### *Standards*: 

-   Beards will be neatly trimmed, combed, clean, and free of ornaments.
    Moustaches must be neatly trimmed. Beards must not interfere with
    regularly assigned duties and/or be a safety hazard in the
    performance of those duties.

-   Hair must be clean, and neat. Hair length must not interfere with
    regularly assigned duties and/or be a safety hazard in the
    performance of those duties. Hair must not obscure either the badge
    or name bar/tag. Any form of haircut or hairstyle that draws more
    attention than the uniform and detracts from the wearer\'s
    authority, such as cuts that produce patterns, designs or
    contrasting lengths, is prohibited. Sideburns must be no longer than
    the bottom of the ear.

-   Coloration not normally found in human hair, or any coloration which
    is employed to produce unnatural hair patterns through contrasting
    hair colors is prohibited.

-   Makeup and adornment will conform to the kind typically worn by
    members of service or professional organizations. Neither makeup nor
    adornment will detract from the uniform, interfere with job
    performance or present a safety hazard.

*Exemptions*: Employees engaged in costumed interpretation may be
exempted from these standards with the approval of the appropriate
division chief.

*Exceptions:*

Exemptions may be granted to the above personal adornment limitations
and appearance standards only in accordance with D.O. #43, Section
5.3.3.

**Exceptions** occur only where regional, cluster, or local standards
are developed. To establish a regional, cluster or local standard, the
appropriate manager must survey a minimum of three other indites having
similar public service functions. Indites may include such organizations
as teacher associations, law enforcement agencies, civic and service
organizations, corporations, professional groups, or associations.
Standards must be applied to like class(es) of NPS employees. For
example, three surveyed standards from educational and tour
organizations that apply to employees in interpretation; three standards
from public service corporations that apply to administration,
maintenance, resource management, and interpretation. When survey
standards have been documented, the appearance standard developed for
the region/cluster/park will reflect the norm or median standard of this
survey. The regional director will approve this standard and it will be
attached to the standards of effected park(s). The chosen standard must
be applied throughout the park, cluster or region.

Employees on **detail assignments, team assignments**, or other
temporary duty, will comply with the receiving area's standards.

##### Conduct and Bearing Standards

**§**

####### Regular Duty

The distinctive NPS uniform is so closely related to the mission and
traditions of the agency that it is virtually synonymous with both the
agency\'s purpose and personnel. Uniformed employees are held in high
esteem by the public as guardians of the Nation\'s irreplaceable natural
and cultural heritage; they are also highly regarded as role models who
have many attributes Americans prize including: courtesy, service,
integrity, self-reliance and self-sufficiency. Employees who wear the
*Service* or *Field Uniform*, whether commissioned or not, also wear a
badge which connotes a certain level of formal authority.

Accordingly, uniformed employees of the NPS are held to high standards
of conduct and behavior, and are expected to comport themselves
accordingly.

####### Prohibited Activities

Although proper behavior is expected from uniformed employees under all
circumstances, employees are specifically prohibited from the following
activities **while in uniform or wearing a readily identifiable uniform
component**:

-   Purchasing or consuming alcoholic beverages, whether on or off duty.

-   Smoking or carrying cigars, pipes or cigarettes in their mouths or
    chewing tobacco while in public view.

-   Gambling in any form while on or off duty.

-   Participating in or attending any demonstration or public event
    wherein the wearing of the uniform could be construed as agency
    support for a particular issue, position, or political party.

-   Sleeping while on duty and in public view.

####### Public Events

Uniformed employees of the NPS participate in hundreds of public events
and ceremonies each year. These events impose higher standards of
uniformity, conduct and bearing than normal duty because of the
conspicuousness of the NPS uniform in public settings, particularly in
the presence of the media.

*General*:

It is imperative that uniformed employees look as similar as possible at
special events.

A special effort will be made to have all uniformed employees either
wear a prescribed and published \"uniform of the day\" or meet together
to assure that their uniforms conform. It is more important that
uniforms are identical than a particular standard be followed to the
letter (e.g. one employee lacks gloves, then all should forego them0. A
\"stand up\" inspection by the person managing the event or his or her
representative will be conducted before the event begins.

-   All metal components - badges, nametags, and USNPS collar ornaments
    should be highly lustrous and properly aligned.

-   Garments must be clean and pressed. All persons authorized to wear
    ranger hats must wear those hats except in extremely cold or windy
    weather.

-   Shoes, belts, and hatbands must be highly polished. Keys and
    accessory items on belts are prohibited.

-   Uniformed employees who will take part in ceremonies should rehearse
    movements together to assure that they conform to each other.

> Particular attention should be paid to the following:

-   Hand salutes - The right hand is raised sharply with fingers and
    thumb extended and joined. The tip of the right index finger is
    placed on the brim of the hat slightly above the right eye with the
    hand and wrist straight. The outer edge of the hand should be tilted
    slightly downward so that neither the back of the hand nor the palm
    is clearly visible from the front.

-   Standing at attention - The person stands erect with eyes straight
    ahead, feet spread at a 45-degree angle, and hands naturally curled
    with thumbs along trouser seams.

-   Standing at parade rest - The person stands erect with eyes straight
    ahead, feet spread at shoulder width, arms behind the back, hand in
    hand.

![](media/image6.png){width="2.1333333333333333in"
height="2.042361111111111in"}

####### Outdoor Ceremonies

**All** uniformed employees should salute with hats on under the
following circumstances:

-   Playing of national anthems (United States or other countries). Face
    the appropriate flag (if visible) or the music (if flag is not
    visible) and salute. Hold the salute until the last note is played.

-   Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance - face the flag and salute.

-   Presentation of colors - salute when the flag is approximately 6
    feet away until it is 6 feet past you.

-   Raising and lowering of the flag - salute from the moment it starts
    up the pole until it reaches the top, or from the time it begins
    descending until it reaches the base of the flagstaff. If flown at
    half-staff, hold the salute until the flag is lowered to half-staff
    **after** being raised to the top.

-   Raising and lowering of the flag when alone - stand back from the
    flagstaff and salute the flag before lowering and after raising.

-   Playing of \"Taps\" or \"Hail to the Chief\" - face the music and
    salute. Hold the salute until the last note is played.

-   Passage of the President in a parade or motorcade - salute as the
    vehicle passes.

During prayers and benedictions, **all** uniformed employees should
remain covered (i.e., the hat remains on the head) with heads bowed.
Hands should be held together in front.

In all other circumstances, emulate the military if they are
represented.

####### Indoor Ceremonies

1\. **All** uniformed employees should remove their hats, stand at
attention, and face the flag or music, but **not** salute. Those wearing
billed-caps should hold them by the bill in their left hands; those
wearing ranger hats should grip the front edge of the rim with their
left hands and rest the body on their left forearms, keeping them level
with the ground. These procedures will apply in the following
circumstances:

-   Playing of national anthems (United States or other countries)

-   Recitation of Pledge of Allegiance

-   Presentation of colors

-   Raising and lowering of the flag

-   Playing of \"Taps\" or \"Hail to the Chief\"

2\. Uniformed employees should rise and stand at attention but **not**
salute when the President of the United States passes.

3\. Uniformed employees should put their right hands over their hearts
during the Pledge of Allegiance.

4\. During prayers and benedictions, uniformed employees should remove
their hats (if they haven\'t already done so), hold them as noted above,
and bow their heads.

5\. In all other circumstances, emulate the military if they are
represented.

####### Funerals: 

####### 1. All of the above indoor and outdoor protocols apply. 

####### 

####### 2. Uniformed employees may wear a ¾-inch wide black band horizontally across the middle of the badge in tribute to public safety officers killed in the line of duty or NPS employees who died or were killed while in the performance of their duties. The band may be worn from the time of death until end of funeral ceremony.

> ![](media/image7.png){width="1.2347222222222223in"
> height="1.4520833333333334in"}

3\. The superintendent, regional director, or director, as appropriate,
will stipulate when the band is to be worn.

4\. Efforts should be made to assure uniformity in the wearing of the
band at an area or a specific event.

**4.** **THE PARK UNIFORM PROGRAM**

##### 

##### Requirements and Content

Park standards are brief and should not simply recapitulate either the
D.O. #43 or this R.M.. The contents will include the following, portions
of which are entered on the uniform program website:

####### Authorized Wear

-   Employees who will wear the uniform by division and position.

-   Uniform classes authorized for specified groups or individual
    employees. (Classes are: Service, Field, and Work).

####### Authorized Items

Uniform items (garments) in each class authorized for wear in the park.
Efforts should be made to minimize the number of required items,
particularly for seasonals, in order to diminish out-of-pocket expenses
in excess of authorized uniform allowances.

####### Special Work Apparel

####### Special garments and accessories authorized for wear in the park.

-   Employees who are authorized to wear them by division or position.

-   Components which are approved for each special category.

-   The use of PPE as special components.

####### Designated Uniforms

-   The procedures which will be employed to determine seasonal changes.

```{=html}
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```
-   The circumstances when particular uniforms will or will not be worn.

####### Personal Appearance Standards

-   Authorized local personal appearance, grooming, and adornment
    standards (where they deviate from the Servicewide stands in Section
    3 of this manual).

####### Exemptions

####### Limited circumstances (if any) when uniforms are not worn.

####### Procedures for an employee to request a waiver from wearing a specified uniform component (see paragraph on "Waivers," Subpart A, Section 3) 

####### **SAMPLE PARK UNIFORM STANDARD**

###### Spectacular Vistas National Park

Somewhere, US 00000-0000

Memorandum

To: All Park Uniformed Employees, Spectacular Vistas National Park

From: Superintendent, Spectacular Vistas National Park

Subject: Park Uniform Standards

####### Authorized Wear

The following employees are authorized to wear uniforms at Spectacular
Vistas National Park:

*Service Uniform* Superintendent, Division Chiefs, Public Affairs
Officer, staff of Visitor and Resource Protection, Interpretation,
Resource Management Divisions

*Field Uniform* Same as above.

*Work Uniform* Maintenance, Resource Management and Visitor and Resource
Protection employees

[Authorized Items]{.underline}

The attached matrix items, printed from the uniform program website, are
authorized for wear at Spectacular Vistas National Park. The website
will not accept orders for items that are not listed in the attachment.
The superintendent must authorize special requests for other items. A
special ordering override can be provided only for the following
reasons: Special out-of-park team requirements, special medical needs.

[Special Work Apparel]{.underline}

The following work apparel is approved for the indicated duties only:

*Horse Patrol* Riding breeches; riding boots; ball cap or wide-brimmed
hat

*Water Operations* Boat shoes (without socks), wide-brimmed hat.

[Designated Uniforms]{.underline}

a\) The time of year when the change will be made from winter to summer
uniform will be specified each season, by memo. Employees will be given
15 days advance notice of the seasonal change.

b\) Specific uniform classes will be worn in the following
circumstances:

*Formal Apparel* Only at special events by specific order of the
superintendent.

*Service* The uniform will be worn regularly by the public affairs
officer and division chiefs, and will be worn by all employees in
situations where a high degree of public service contact can be expected
during the working day **except** as noted below.

*Field* The uniform will be worn by employees of the Interpretive
Division during inclement weather. Visitor and Resource Protection
Division and Resource Management Division employees may wear the uniform
during inclement weather or while engaged in off-road patrol or work
activities in front-country areas.

*Work* The normal uniform for all Maintenance Division employees. Also,
worn by Visitor and Resource Protection Division and Resource Management
Division employees while engaged in outdoor work activities where public
contact is not likely or while involved in regularly scheduled
backcountry activities.

*Horse Patrol* Routine frontcountry Visitor and Resource Protection
patrols in the South and North Districts.

*Water Operations* Routine Maintenance and Visitor and Resource
Protection operations in the River District.

[Personal Appearance Standards]{.underline}

*Protection and*

*Emergency Service*

*employees* Makeup and adornment will conform with standards currently
in effect for the United Vistas Cluster (see attached).

*All Others* Makeup and adornment will conform to the aggregate
standards from the Rotary Club and the New Ideas Corporation in
Desertville, and the state Division of Natural Resources. These include
the following provisions (specify).

##### New Employee Packet

**NOTE: The required Condition of Employment Statement (DO #43, Exhibit
A) *must* be signed prior to the employee's appointment date.**

1\. A letter from a park representative (superintendent, supervisor,
uniform coordinator,

or uniform program administrator) containing the following information:

-   the amount of the employee\'s allowance;

-   the employee's uniform account number;

-   the minimum uniform the employee is expected to acquire;

-   a statement emphasizing the need for accurate sizing in accord with
    instructions found on the uniform program website;

-   a statement emphasizing the need for prompt submission to assure
    that the order will arrive as quickly as possible;

-   instructions on how to access the uniform program website; and

-   notification that the order will be shipped to the park, not to the
    employee\'s current or future residence.

2\. A set of park standards (see above).

3\. A paper copy of the ordering screen from the NPS uniform program
website.

# 5. ACCOUNTABILITY

**Employee Performance and Conduct**

Managers and supervisors have an affirmative obligation to ensure that
their employees understand all appearance requirements and that they
have all the forms and documents necessary to order uniforms. Managers
and supervisors are held to the same performance and conduct standards
as the uniformed employees whom they supervise, so it is essential for
managers and supervisors to set the correct example of proper uniform
and personal appearance.

Uniform appearance, personal appearance while in uniform, and employee
bearing and demeanor are components of both an employee's performance
and conduct. Managers and supervisors are both responsible and
accountable for assuring that uniformed employees meet appropriate
appearance and conduct standards. Employees may be appraised of
satisfactory and non-satisfactory appearance and conduct through the
performance evaluation process. Disciplinary action is also an option in
cases of misconduct.

##### Condition of Employment Statement

The letter in D.O. #43 (Exhibit A) will be completed by each prospective
employee **prior to appointment to any uniformed position, regardless of
length of NPS service,** and placed in his or her official personnel
folder to ensure that incoming employees understand that uniform and
personal appearance standards are conditions of employment.

**Uniform Ownership** (see also, DO #43, Section 5.4.1.)

Employees are accountable for uniform components entrusted to their
care. The badge and arrowhead patches protected by provisions of Title
18 USC 641 and 701, and Title 36 CFR Part 11.

Lost, stolen or unserviceable badges must be reported to the issuing
officer as soon as possible. Under certain conditions, the employee may
be required to pay for replacement badges (see DO #44, Personal Property
Management), at market value. In the year 2000, that value was \$22. per
badge.

##### Misconduct

The NPS supplement to the Federal Personnel Manual (FPM), Chapter 752,
Subchapter 1.2B, provides basic guidance on actions that can be taken
when an employee appears at work inappropriately uniformed or with
uniform components missing. Other FPM sections apply to improper
activities while in uniform:

####### First Offense

The supervisor should orally counsel the employee, pointing out his or
her deficiencies, and grant annual leave or excused time to allow the
employee to return home and report back to work properly uniformed. The
supervisor should point out that proper uniform wear is a condition of
the employee\'s position and that failing to be properly attired in the
uniform means that the employee is not \"ready, willing or able\" to
work.

[Second Offense]{.underline}

Depending on the situation, the supervisor may want to repeat the steps
outlined above. The exception would probably be the granting of annual
leave or excused time; generally, the employee will be absent without
leave until he or she reports to work in a proper uniform. An informal
counseling memorandum of letter or warning may be warranted.

[Third Offense]{.underline}

Progressive discipline and/or adverse action (i.e., a letter of warning
or reprimand, suspension, or removal) will normally occur. In dealing
with these issues as misconduct, the requirement that the employee be
given an \"opportunity to improve\" does not apply.

######### SUBPART B: Program Administration

# 1. UNIFORM PROGRAM WEBSITE

Much of the following can also be found as pull-down help menus on the
Uniform Program Website located at:
amoebawww.den.nps.gov/amoeba/nps_uniform.nsf. The purpose of the
Government portion of the website is to take care of the administrative
processes including fund commitment, allowance authorization, and
prevention of misuse of Government funds. The contractor part of the
website handles the placement and tracking of orders, invoices, and
annual closeout.

Automatic reporting systems associated with the websites make it easier
for the NPS to monitor for fraud, waste and abuse, and allow designated
agents to access real-time reports. WASO and regional uniform program
managers can monitor for excessive quantities and items that are being
ordered that are not part of the park's uniform standards.

**2. ORGANIZATION CODES**

The contractor is not permitted to establish new areas on the system
without the specific approval of the NPS. Once the Service has
established an organization code for a new area or park unit; it will
then be entered in the uniform program website system by the system
operator upon notification from the Servicewide program manager and the
NPS contract representative. This will serve as the contract amendment
allowing the contractor to accept orders.

##### 

##### 3. ANNUAL PROGRAM CYCLE

##### 

##### The uniform program largely operates on an annual cycle based on the fiscal year (i.e., from October to September). During that cycle, there are a number of formal and informal dates which program administrators should keep in mind. The dates and times listed below may vary slightly from year to year.

October 1 Allowance accounts for the new fiscal year are activated and
ordering may begin. New uniform prices go into effect.

June 1 Park uniform program administrators should remind managers and
supervisors of the September shutdown of the contractor\'s operations so
that the hiring of uniformed employees and/or ordering of uniforms can
be coordinated to take place before or after.

July 1 The park uniform program administrator should notify uniformed
employees of the impending shutdown and advise them to expend the
remainder of their uniform allowances by September 1^st^ or as otherwise
specified on the web site. **No portion of employee uniform Allowances
may or will be carried forward to the new fiscal year**.

# September 1-10

> Deadline for submission of uniform orders for current fiscal year and
> for completion of any remaining outstanding business with the
> contractor. The specific date will be posted on the website annually.

September 15 Or as specified, consolidated uniform allowance report,
which authorizes

> permanent employee uniform allowances for the coming fiscal year, sent
> to parks. **Prompt completion and return by October 1st is critical**.

September 20-31

> Contractor closed 2 days for annual inventory, system update,
> accounting and other purposes. Specific date posted on the website
> annually.

**4. ALLOWANCE SYSTEM**

While it is not encouraged, the NPS recognizes that there are special
cases where it is more cost-effective for the Government **AND** the
employee to purchase a uniform from the contractor via a purchase order
or other direct purchase process. This section does

not apply to direct purchases; it applies to units and employees using
the uniform allowance system.

Law sets \$400 as the maximum amount for initial and replacement
allowances; lower amounts are set by policy. Beginning October 1, 2000,
allowances are set at the following rates:

+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ##                | ##       | ##        | ##        | ## **Allowa  |
|                   |          |           |           | nce Amount** |
|                   | ## **S   | ##        | ##        |              |
|                   | ervice** | **Field** |  **Work** |              |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## **Permanent**  | ##       | ##        | ##        | ##           |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## First Year     | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$400.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Second Year    | ***X***  | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | \$400.00     |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Third Year     | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$400.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Fourth Year    | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$400.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Replacement    | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$320.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Occasional     | ## **X** | ##        | ##        | ## \$160.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## **Seasonal**   | ##       | ##        | ##        | ##           |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## First Year     | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$400.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Fall Period    | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$160.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## Spring Period  | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$160.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ## **Maternity**  | ##       | ##        | ##        | ##           |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+
| ##                | ## **X** | ## **X**  | ## **X**  | ## \$350.00  |
+-------------------+----------+-----------+-----------+--------------+

[Permanent Employees]{.underline}:

Initial Allowance \$400 (same as current)

First 3 years' Replacement Allowances \$400/year (new)

> Subsequent Replacement Allowances \$320/year (same as current)

Occasional Wear Replacement Allowance \$160/year (new)

[Seasonal Employees]{.underline}:

Initial Allowance \$400

Subsequent seasons \$160/employment period

[Maternity]{.underline}:

As needed \$350

1\. The park or other administrative unit in which the employee works
establishes a credit account with the uniform contractor via the
"Uniform Allowance Authorization (UAA) process on the website. Employees
then order uniform components against this credit account.

2\. Employees may purchase only those uniform items included in the
authorized uniform

categories.

3\. [Occasional Wear Allowance]{.underline}: Only for employees that are
required to wear the uniform less than 5 days per week on a consistent
basis. Since employees in this category are typically in office
environments, this category of allowance should be used for employees
that are only expected to maintain a *Service Uniform*. Examples may
include: central office employees, Public Affairs Officers, or employees
in a technical services division. **Managers and supervisors cannot
require employees to wear the uniform on a full time basis when this
allowance is authorized.**

####### Use of Allowances

1\. The uniform allowance is provided to help **defray** the cost of
wearing a uniform. It is not intended to cover the total cost of all
uniform items. Cleaning, tailoring, and upkeep are the responsibility of
the employee.

2\. The allowance amount authorized for each employee is to be used
[only]{.underline} by that employee. Since uniforms are procured with
Government funds and since unexpended allowances reduce net uniform
program costs to the Service, **ordering uniform items for other
persons, with or without remuneration, is prohibited**.

3\. **Employees are not required to expend the full amount of their
allowances**. Unexpended allowances directly diminish the assessments
made against the parks and administrative units where employees work.
Unexpended funds **do not** revert to the contractor.

4\. Employees are required to obtain uniform components sufficient to
meet the standards contained in D.O. #43, but are not expected to expend
their allowances unnecessarily. Replacement allowance levels have been
structured to provide adequate funds for most employees, but it\'s also
understood that others, particularly those working indoors, will not
always need the full amount provided.

####### Apportionment

1\. Both temporary and permanent employees will receive full initial
allowances. Initial and replacement allowances **cannot** be reduced
from the amount stipulated above. The website will not accept any
allowance amounts other than those set by policy.

2\) Permanent employees will receive full, annual-replacement allowances
after the period of their initial allowance expires. Intermittent,
temporary, seasonal, and other employees who do not wear the uniform
every day will receive semi-annual allowance amounts.

3\. Maternity uniforms are a special purpose uniform, and allowances for
these can be authorized in addition to other allowances.

[Definitions]{.underline}

1\. A permanent employee is one whose appointment does not have a time
limitation and who is in uniform on a regular basis. Includes career and
career-conditional appointments, whether full-time, part-time, or
subject-to-furlough.

2\. A temporary or seasonal employee is one whose appointment has a time
limitation of 1 year or less and who is in a uniform on a regular basis.

####### Initial Allowance

1\. The initial allowance is provided to employees when they are first
placed in a uniformed position. Initial allowances are a one-time
allocation granted to employees to **help defray** the cost of
purchasing required uniform items.

2\. Initial allowances are also authorized when an employee returns to a
uniformed position after having been out of uniform for **3 years**
since the end of the last allowance period.

3\. The entire initial allowance is to be given at one time to all
employees, whether permanent, seasonal or intermittent.

[Replacement Allowance]{.underline}

1\. Replacement allowances are granted to employees to help defray the
cost of replacing worn uniform items.

2\. Replacement allowances begin following the completion of initial
allowance periods.

3\. Permanent employees receive their replacement allowances at the
beginning of the fiscal year. Seasonal, temporary, and intermittent
employees receive their allowances in

pro-rated amounts according to the procedures established below.

*Maternity Uniform*

This allowance is also based on the fiscal year and provided in addition
to other uniform allowances through a separate UAA. Only one allowance
per pregnancy may be granted. The authorization can be issued any time
during the fiscal year.

####### Computing Allowances

## Establishing an Allowance

Allowance histories should first be completed for newly hired employees.
The employee allowance history work sheet can be found on the website.

A UAA must then be completed on the uniform website, and submitted via
the website. The website has a downloadable UAA form (in .PDF format).
This form can only be used for in-park purposes. It cannot be used in
place of the web screen nor faxed to the contractor for any purpose.

*Initial Allowances*

Permanent Employees: An initial allowance is authorized for the fiscal
year in which the employee is first authorized to wear the uniform. The
employee receives the full sum no matter when he or she goes into
uniform, whether on the first, last or any other day of the fiscal year.
The employee is due no other allowance for 1 year.

Temporary, Seasonal, and Intermittent Employees: An initial allowance is
authorized for the first two full periods worked. Although the entire
sum is received at one time, the employee is not entitled to a
replacement allowance until he or she has worked part of or all of
**two** periods. Period 1 begins on October 1st and ends on March 31st;
Period 2 begins on April 1st and ends on September 30th. **Example**: An
employee works June -- August each year. She receives a full initial at
the beginning of her first summer, but that initial is still in effect
when she works her season in the following summer. Her first replacement
will be authorized in her third summer. An intermittent employee who
works fewer than 130 days in a fiscal year is considered to have worked
one period; an intermittent who works more than 130 days has worked two
periods.

## Replacement Allowances

Permanent Employees: Permanent replacement allowances begin on the first
day of the fiscal year following the expiration of the employee\'s
initial allowance. A UAA must be submitted for the **first** replacement
allowance. After that, the employee is \"in the system\" and is
reauthorized annually through the consolidated uniform allowance report
(CUAR) (see the section on closeout procedures).

Temporary and Seasonal Employees: Seasonal/temporary replacement
allowances are issued semi-annually in order to prorate the amounts
received in approximate accord with seasons worked. Half of the
permanent replacement allowance is authorized for each period. Period 1
begins on October 1^st^ and ends on March 31^st^ Period 2 begins on
April 1st and ends on September 30th. The first replacement allowance
for a temporary/ seasonal employee begins after the employee has worked
**all or part of two periods**. Replacement allowances should cover the
anticipated length of employment within the fiscal year. An employee
working any portion of a period receives the entire amount authorized
for that period. These periods are for administrative purposes only and
do not correlate with winter and summer uniform categories. Replacement
allowance periods begin with the first day of the period during which
the employee starts work and end with the last day of the period in
which the employee terminates. If an employee works past the end of a
fiscal year, one replacement allowance will end on September 30^th^ and
a second will be necessary at the beginning of the new fiscal year to
cover employment from October 1^st^ until termination.

Intermittent Employees: The replacement allowance for intermittent
employees is determined by anticipating the number of days in the fiscal
year that the uniform will be worn. The appropriate number of periods is
authorized based on the number of days

worked; one period for employees who will work up to 130 days, two
periods for intermittents who will work more than 130 days.

[Maternity Uniform Allowance]{.underline}

Employees who have fully expended their maternity allowances may utilize
the balance of their regular allowances to buy maternity components.

####### Terminations and Transfers

*All Employees*

When any employee transfers, terminates or otherwise no longer requires
a uniform, initiation of the Personnel Action (SF-50) will automatically
terminate the employee in the uniform allowance system.

The contractor is **only required to ship items as long as the
authorization is active**.

*Permanent Employees*

A park or administrative unit receiving a transferred employee **must**
submit a UAA to the contractor to reactivate the authorization under the
new organization code.

## Temporary, Seasonal, and Intermittent Employees

Under the semi-annual payment schedule, an employee who terminates and
is rehired **within a fiscal year** will be reactivated automatically by
the contractor upon receipt of a new UAA. The new total (i.e., the
remaining balance plus the new authorization) will be activated under
the appropriate organizational code. Balances for employees not rehired
within the same fiscal year will be cancelled.

##### [Adjusted Allowances]{.underline}

An employee who received an initial allowance at a past initial
allowance rate who goes back into uniform following a break of **more
than 3 years** is entitled to a one-time initial allowance adjustment in
the amount of the difference between the two initials.

####### Employee Claim

1\. Claims for a uniform component damaged in a work-related incident or
through an event or circumstance beyond the employee\'s control may be
handled through an adjustment to the employee\'s allowance if the
component was acquired with Government or personal funds through the
uniform allowance system.

2\. The UAA with the adjusted initial amount must be accompanied by a
justification signed by the Superintendent or unit manager. The UAA and
justification must be sent to the regional uniform coordinator for
review and approval. If approved, the regional uniform coordinator will
forward the UAA and justification to the uniform contractor.

**5. UNIFORM PROCUREMENT PROCESS**

####### **Ordering**

1\. The entire uniform authorization and ordering process is automated
on the NPS Uniform Website. Paper forms can be downloaded from this
website for any administrative use (remote duty stations without World
Wide Web access; record copies), **but all submissions to the contractor
MUST be submitted electronically via this website**. All audits, reports
and tracking occur on this website; therefore the records on this
database must be complete.

2\. The contractor **cannot** enter UAA's or employee orders from their
terminals. The contractor cannot accept telephone or facsimile orders.
**NOTE: Although the UAA requires entry of the full social security
number, the full number is only used to verify employment. The
contractor *only receives the first seven digits* of the social security
number for use as the employee account number.**

3\. Incorrect sizing is a common ordering problem. Current measurements
should be entered on each order form. General sizing information is
provided on-line; specific details can be found beside each item entry.

4\. Information on making special orders can be found on-line*.*

5\. **New Employees**: Each new permanent and seasonal employee should
receive basic information and an ordering packet described in R.M. #43,
Subpart A, Section 4. Advance transmittal of the packet will
significantly shorten uniform delivery times and minimize confusion on
which items to order.

####### **Payment**

1\. Personal funds must be included with orders for amounts in excess of
the employee\'s current uniform balance. Payments by credit card must be
entered on-line on the order screen (this process is covered by the same
safeguards and security methods used throughout the World Wide Web and
is subject to all of the laws protecting against credit card fraud). The
minimum amount that can be charged to a credit card is \$5.

2\. When paying by check or money order, copy the order number from the
screen on to the check/money order and mail it to the contractor. Order
processing will not begin until the check/money order is received by the
contractor.

3\. Alterations must be paid for with personal funds.

4\. Cash-on-delivery orders will not be accepted by the contractor.

5\. The uniform contractor is authorized to charge employees for checks
that fail to clear due to insufficient funds.

####### **Order Fulfillment**

Orders and authorizations are handled by the contractor on a first-in,
first-out basis contingent on **date and time of receipt**.

####### **Completion**

1\. The contractor is required to fill orders for components within
standard size ranges within 15 working days unless an item is on
backorder. Every effort is made to assure sufficient inventory on hand
to minimize backorders. Backorders are nonetheless, unavoidable. When
they occur, the contractor will notify the employee of the expected date
of shipment on-line and/or on the packing slip for the balance of the
order.

2\. Deliveries for special, made-to-measure items outside normal size
ranges require a minimum of 45 days.

####### **Receiving**

1\. The contractor will absorb the value of packages sent by the
contractor but not received by the park.

2\. Once received, shipments are the responsibility of the park until
signed for by the employee. A report of survey is required when a
shipment is received by the park but lost before the employee receives
it. The park must issue a new uniform allowance authorization for the
full amount of the items lost. The report of survey number must appear
in the remarks section of the new authorization.

3\. The receiving employee must "sign for" the shipment by immediately
going on-line and acknowledging receipt in the appropriate place on the
website. Automatic acknowledgement occurs 30 days after the ship date in
order to allow contractor payment. The lag time between the shipment
carrier's receipt date and the employee's acceptance is tracked. This
will give employees a check on the amount of time that their order sat
in the mailroom before they were notified.

####### **Cancellations and Terminations**

1\. The park will take one of the following actions when an order is
received for an employee who has transferred or has been terminated:

-   return it to the contractor;

-   forward it to the employee if there is a reasonable expectation that
    he or she will be returning to duty; or

-   forward the shipment to the employee\'s current park duty station.

2\. If an order is cancelled, the shipment must be returned to the
contractor; the contractor should be notified by phone.

3\. Under no circumstances shall the park retain a terminated employee's
uniform shipment for use by other employees.

####### **Exchanges and Refunds**

1\. The employee must return all uniform items requiring refunds or
exchanges to the contractor within 10 days of receipt.

2\. The park will absorb the value of packages sent to the contractor by
the park but not received by the contractor. All returns should be sent
by certified mail to ensure that they can be tracked if lost.

3\. **Exchange forms** supplied by the contractor with the shipment must
be used for all exchanges and returns. Return addresses must be entered
in the space provided at the bottom of the exchange form.

4\. Return shipment boxes should be prepared as securely as possible to
prevent merchandise from being damaged upon return. All **hats must be
double-boxed** to prevent damage during shipment. The contractor is not
required to accept responsibility for returned hats that are damaged due
to improper packing.

5\. **Exchanges cannot be made of any garment or other component that
has been worn, washed, or altered unless the garment is defective**.
Garments and other uniform components that have failed as a result of
normal wear and tear are not considered to be defective.

6\. Credit adjustments will be made to the employee's account for items
ordered and charged against the employee\'s allowance.

7\. The contractor will reimburse employees for items purchased with
personal funds.

##### 6. DIRECT PURCHASES

**§**

## **Uniform Components Covered by Allowances** 

1\. Parks are permitted to directly purchase uniform items from the
contractor to meet those special needs not covered by the allowance
system**. Direct purchases cannot be used to supplement the uniform
allowance**. Issuance of Government-owned uniforms to an employee who
has been authorized a uniform allowance is an illegal augmentation of
the employee\'s salary. Such purchases have been expressly prohibited by
the Department of Interior, Inspector General and may be in violation of
18 U.S.C., Section 641.

2\. Uniforms and components may be purchased directly from the
contractor, subject to the above restrictions via a Government
purchase-card. Purchases must be approved by the superintendent (or
other designated official) and the order must be placed by a warranted
contract officer. Direct purchases must be accompanied by an appropriate
justification in the "remarks" block on the order screen including a
statement why the employee allowance system is not appropriate.
Government purchase card orders will be treated the same as employee
personal credit card purchases; third party drafts and purchase orders
will be handled by the contractor the same as orders that use checks or
money orders.

## **Uniform Components Not Covered by Allowances**

*Arrowhead Patches*: Supplemental arrowhead patches are available for
limited use and in an official capacity. To obtain additional patches:

-   Prepare a purchase request through IDEAS with a justification and
    submit to Central Supply\'s Brentwood or Rocky Mountain facilities.

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-   Law and regulation prohibit unofficial uses.

*Name Tags*: Several types of name tags and bars are provided directly
to parks by a subcontractor to the uniform contractor:

+-------------------------------+--------------------------------------+
| ##### Uniform name bar        | The standard gold name tag worn on   |
|                               | the uniform.                         |
+-------------------------------+--------------------------------------+
| ##### Service name bar        | A name bar with an arrowhead symbol  |
|                               | which is worn on civilian clothing   |
|                               | to identify the wearer as a          |
|                               | representative of the NPS who is     |
|                               | acting in official capacity. It is   |
|                               | **not** worn on the uniform.         |
+-------------------------------+--------------------------------------+
| ##### Sign language name bar  | The sign language interpreter bar is |
|                               | worn by employees who know or are    |
|                               | learning sign language.              |
+-------------------------------+--------------------------------------+
| ##### Language name bar       | Identifies employees as language     |
|                               | interpreters to visitors.            |
+-------------------------------+--------------------------------------+

To obtain one or more of these name tags:

-   Prepare a delivery order against the current contract on an Optional
    Form 347 or NPS Form 10-3470 and send to the uniform contractor.

*Badges* and *"USNPS" Collar Insignia*: provided for use on uniforms. To
obtain a badge or "USNPS" insignia:

-   Prepare a DI-1 and submit to Central Supply\'s, Brentwood or Rocky
    Mountain facilities.

# 7. PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

See D.O. #44, Property Management for:

-   disposal of retired badges and insignia;

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-   Government-owned property issued to employees, such as PPE, and
    Government-purchased work apparel;

-   accountability for the shipments

[Personal Property]{.underline}**:** Items procured under the uniform
allowance system are considered to be the employee\'s personal property
once delivery has been formally made to the employee. The Government,
however, has a vested interest in the property since the allowance comes
from appropriated funds. The uniform contract therefore, requires
delivery and receipt by the park. Parks are accountable for all uniforms
until delivered to the ordering employee.

[All Purchases, Employee Responsibilities]{.underline}**:**

-   Check shipments to verify that the contents match the packing slip
    and order.

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-   Enter acceptance on the uniform website.

####### Employee Claims

1\. Claims for a uniform component damaged in a work-related incident or
through an event or circumstance beyond the employee\'s control may be
handled through an adjustment to the employee\'s allowance if the
component was acquired with Government or personal funds through the
uniform allowance system. See RM #43, Subpart B, Section 4, "Adjusted
Allowances," and "Employee Claims."

2\) Claims for a uniform component or protective equipment procured with
park funds will be handled through standard tort procedures.

##### 8. DOCUMENTS AND REPORTS

See help menus on the uniform website.

##### 9. CLOSEOUT

Each year, the contractor is required to close down for several weeks in
September at the end of the fiscal year to complete several business and
contractually required tasks. These include, but are not limited to,
completion of all concluding fiscal year orders and exchanges, a
complete inventory of all the uniform components in the warehouse,
preparation of required reports for parks and central offices, closeout
employee accounts and creation of new accounts, and final balancing of
books.

The contractor must accordingly suspend all business so that these tasks
can be completed by the end of September. Once the website is locked for
closeout, **no exceptions to this ruling can be granted**.

####### Park Responsibilities

Employees should be advised of the impending fiscal year closeout in
July. Since price changes occur with the new fiscal year, it is
particularly important that employees purchase items at this year\'s
prices with funds remaining in their current allowances.

Supervisors and managers should also be reminded of closeout to expedite
hiring of uniformed summer employees before or after the September.

####### Procedures

1\. Uniform allowances authorized for the concluding fiscal year cannot
be applied beyond the end of the fiscal year. Uniform orders placed
against current allowances must be entered on the website no later than
the closeout date posed on the website. After that date, the website
ordering system is locked.

2\. Existing backorders are charged against current allowance balances
and are shipped as

soon as the contractor receives the merchandise.

3\. All outstanding dealings with the contractor must be resolved before
the end of September. Credits should be applied, refunds made, and
exchanges completed as soon as possible.

[Establishing Accounts for New Fiscal Year (Permanent
Employees)]{.underline}

1\. Individual allowance authorizations for permanent employees
currently on the rolls are not required for the new fiscal year.
Instead, each park receives a CUAR via the uniform website. This must be
certified on-line as indicated in the on-screen instructions. This must
be done on or before September 31^st^ or as otherwise instructed on the
CUAR screen.

2\. All necessary changes or deletions to existing information should be
made on the CUAR.

3\. Accounts for permanent employees for the new fiscal year are
established and activated from the information furnished by this report.

####### Establishing Accounts For New Fiscal Year (Temporary, Seasonal, and New Hire Employees)

1\. New UAA screens must be completed for all temporary, seasonal and/or
new employees (including transfers) to establish their uniform accounts
for the new fiscal year.

2\. Authorizations must be computed according to the semi-annual
schedule and must accompany the consolidated report to the contractor.

##### 10. PROPOSALS AND FEEDBACK

####### Director's Order, Reference Manual, and Garment Revisions

1\. Recommended revisions which are not submitted according to the
following procedure or which are incomplete will not be accepted for
review.

2\. Information must be submitted via E-mail to the regional uniform
program manager; all information must be complete.

3\. Regional uniform managers will review to determine: a) Servicewide
need and applicability, and b) need for referral to a subject-matter
specialist. Subject-matter review may include members of advisory
committees, employees in duty-specific disciplines (e.g., boating,
backcountry), or consultant contractors. Specific reasons for either
supporting or opposing the proposal must be appended to it before it is
forwarded. The employee will receive a response to the suggestion within
60 days of submission.

4\. After any additional review, the Servicewide uniform committee will
review the proposal. Action may have to wait for the annual committee
meeting. Some factors in Servicewide adoption might include:

-   field demand;

-   cost/benefit including potential for other agencies in the contract
    to adopt;

-   compliance with the NPS image as stated in D.O. #43 and R.M. #43;

-   National Leadership Council support

-   inventory costs;

-   contracting officer and contractor's assessment on the proposal\'s
    feasibility.

[Wear Test]{.underline}

If a field wear test is warranted, the Servicewide uniform manager will
take the following steps:

-   Seek candidates for the wear test through calls to regional uniform
    coordinators.

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-   Prepare evaluation instructions, order samples, and arrange to have
    evaluations and samples sent to testers through park uniform
    coordinators.

-   Call testers individually to assure that they understand
    instructions.

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-   Follow up on evaluations at end of test to assure all are forwarded.

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-   Prepare a report of findings for contracting officer, contractor,
    branch and division chiefs, and affected program specialists.

The Servicewide uniform manager will meet with contracting officer and
contractor to determine if the item should be phased in or if a buy-out
of existing inventory should be considered.

##### 11. Problem Resolution

1\. **All problems will be resolved at the lowest level possible**.

2\. Information must be submitted via E-mail to the park uniform
coordinator.

####### Procedures

1\. Employees will work with their park uniform program administrator or
uniform program coordinator to resolve any problems with the contractor
through direct contacts. Park uniform program administrators or
coordinators are the **only** persons who will call the contractor\'s
customer service representatives to resolve problems.

2\. Problems that can not be resolved in this manner will be documented
for further action. The employee should prepare a document with the
following information:

-   employee\'s name and phone number;

-   his or her uniform account number;

-   date the document was prepared;

-   park address; and

-   **specific** nature of the problem (e.g., order number, date of
    order, dates of calls to the contractor, and exact description of
    component, including employee size).

3\. The park uniform coordinator or park uniform program administrator
will review the complaint or problem. That person will add the following
information:

-   his or her name and phone number;

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-   the date of review;

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-   **specific** information regarding efforts to resolve the problem at
    the park level; and

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-   reason the problem was sent to the regional uniform manager for
    resolution.

4\. The regional uniform manager will review the complaint or problem.
If the regional manager is able to resolve the problem, he or she will
return the complaint or problem document to the park uniform
coordinator, who will in turn forward it to the employee. If not, the
regional uniform manager will add the following information, and
expeditiously transmit it to the Servicewide uniform manager:

-   his or her name and phone number;

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-   the date of review;

-   **specific** information regarding efforts to resolve the problem at
    the regional level; and

-   reason that the problem was forwarded to the Servicewide uniform
    manager for resolution.

5\. The Servicewide uniform manager will review and will work toward a
solution to unresolvable complaints or problems. Once the problem is
resolved, the Servicewide uniform manager will prepare a report, attach
it to the complaint or problem, and forward it to the regional uniform
manager. The regional uniform manager will then forward the document to
the park uniform coordinator who will in turn, forward it to the
employee.

\-\-\-\-- End of Reference Manual \-\-\-\--