Jewelry in the work place/food manufacturing unit

I apologize for bringing this up again in the forum.  I have included in our CPU Guidelines for Bakery Staff the "no jewelry(ies) allowed in the production floor except for the wedding band." I have also indicated that we are only allowing the "red thread bracelet" for a week, as a sign of respect to the country's (Cambodia) religion and culture.  

I'm in a dilemma regarding "sleeper" hoop earrings.  We hired a new bakery chef (French) and he is wearing earrings and the sleeper hoop earrings. He does not agree on removing his sleeper hoop earrings but the other earrings he has are ok to be removed.  Our local staffs are now questioning me, being the Hygiene and Quality Manager and is implementing the HACCP, why he is allowed to wear the earrings and they are not.  

My question is, is it ok - based on HACCP - to allow the sleeper hoop earrings in the production floor?  Because, according to him, it is his lifestyle and he is just that - he loves his sleeper hoop earrings.  My point - NO BUTs, IFs, EXCEPTIONS.

I would allow although hesitant and with reservation, as long as it is HACCP approved/allowed.  But if not,  NO BUTs, IFs, EXCEPTIONS.

Highly appreciate everybody's take on this.

BRC says no. I was a lowly QA during a BRC audit where we were given a minor for something similar. 

It's a peculiar lifestyle choice that makes your chef decide to be a chef and not be allowed to work in the food industry!

I had to Google sleeper earrings.  I say no, they can not be allowed, since they have the same chance as many earrings of falling out.

It may be time to part company with your chef!

Hygiene rules are just that RULES! What if the next person says she can't remove, lets say. a hindu glass bangle, because it is their lifestyle / religous choice?

Like you say, no "If's,  Buts or Exceptions"

Thank you all for your replies!  And I agree to all your responses...we'll see what happens next!  I will update everyone on this...might be interesting...