Acas issue guidance on employee dress codes

There are many reasons why an employer might set out a dress code. It may relate to wearing a uniform or ensuring employees are recognisable or presenting a professional, corporate image. It may be for health and safety or hygiene purposes. Acas has issued some guidance on how employers can implement dress codes without straying into the territories of discrimination, that we have read about over recent months, in the news.

Summary

• Employers must avoid unlawful discrimination in any dress code policy
• Employers may have health and safety reasons for having certain standards
• Dress codes must apply to both men and women equally, although they may have different requirements
• Reasonable adjustments must be made for disabled people when dress codes are in place

The guidance also provides direction with regards to tattoos and piercings and religious dress.

You can read the full guidance here.