Are There Work Uniform Laws in the UK?

17 Jul 2024

Work uniform

Compulsory work uniforms have long since been a topic of debate, but are there any specific laws in the UK that discuss dress codes and uniforms in the workplace?

In this blog, we will explore the rules and regulations surrounding workplace uniforms and dress codes so that employees and employers alike can better understand their working rights.

UK Uniform Laws

In the UK, there is currently no existing law that specifically relates to dress codes and uniforms at work. This means that as an employer, you are not legally required to create a dress code. 

However, if you do require your staff to wear a specific dress code for work, it is illegal if that dress code discriminates based on any of the nine protected characteristics listed below.

  • Race
  • Sex
  • Sexual Orientation
  • Gender Reassignment
  • Age
  • Pregnancy and Maternity
  • Disability
  • Marriage or Civil Partnership
  • Religion or Belief

How Can a Dress Code Discriminate?

An example of an unlawful dress code would be requiring female employees to wear something different from male employees, such as high heels or makeup. Although dress policies for men and women do not have to be identical, they must apply to both genders equally.

Failure to make a reasonable adjustment to a work uniform when there is an employee with a disability or religious belief would also render your dress code policy unlawful.

Who Should Pay for Work Uniforms?

As an employer, if you require your staff to wear a uniform at work, there is no legal obligation for you to pay for it unless it is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Depending on the terms of the employment contract, you may also be entitled to deduct the value of any unreturned PPE from their wages at the end of their employment.

If you are looking to order uniforms for your employees, here at My Printed Clothing we have a wide range of options available. We can use a selection of printing and embroidery techniques to customise any item on our site with your company logo.

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