A word on Dress Codes...

Guest Blogger Suzie Bogle of Breathing Space HR looks at some of the lengths employers have gone to, in order to protect their reputation and brand.

How far should an employer go in policing employee appearance?

Some pointers on introducing a dress code:

• Give examples of what constitutes "smart", "business-like" or "smart casual"


• Consider the Health and Safety implications and Personal Protective Equipment required


• Consider how and why you would wish employees to wear branded work wear and how you might provide them with the items of clothing


• When drawing up and introducing a dress code, consider consulting with employees on any potential issues or comments on what they would like to see in the workplace


• Communicate the dress code or uniform policy to all employees. Make sure that they are aware of it and of the penalties for non-compliance, including the potential for disciplinary action.


• Apply the dress code equally to all employees. Do not differentiate between the sexes unless absolutely necessary. This will minimise the risk of allegations of sex discrimination.


• Ensure that any requirements are set out as broadly as possible to allow for flexibility for employees with particular cultural or religious obligations.


• Check any employee objections to compliance for potentially discriminatory grounds. Handle the situation sensitively and try to accommodate the employee's needs.


• Ensure that the dress code is enforced consistently and fairly.


• Review the code regularly to ensure that it is up to date and reflects changing conventions.

The usual offenders that employers would prefer to avoid their employees turning up in:

• scruffy/torn trousers;


• micro- or very short miniskirts;


• low cut t-shirts, blouses and transparent clothing;


• shorts;


• sports clothing, for example tracksuits and football shirts;


• sweatshirts or t-shirts with slogans or symbols that could cause offence;


• trainers; and


• excessive or unconventional jewellery.

At Key Appointments we want to supply you with relevant and useful information, if there are topics you would like more information on then please email us at info@key-appointments.co.uk