You work for a specimen collection site for a large reference laboratory, where all the employees conform to a strict uniform policy. You have a strict “look policy” and dress code. All employees must be free from facial hair, cover all tattoos, and wear only company scrubs with white lab coats. Hats are not allowed.
Laila, a woman of Islamic faith, is applying for a sales position at your company. She wears a headscarf. You tell her that, according to the “look policy,” she will not be allowed to wear it. It is a hat, so it does not conform to the company’s dress code. Laila replies that Islam requires her to wear a headscarf.
What is your course of action? Can you refuse to hire Laila because she refuses to conform to the "look policy"?
