Many
businesses impose a dress code on their employees. It is natural for
business owners to want their employees to be well-dressed and
well-groomed, especially when the business involves dealing with many
people everyday. Coming to work in a well-groomed and well-dressed
manner is one way of representing the business positively.
But
is there a limitation when it comes to the kind of dress code that
employers can impose? When is a dress code infringing on employee
rights?
If
the dress code is considered discriminatory, an employee might see
this as a ground to file a lawsuit. This is why when establishing
dress codes, so to it that it isn’t discriminatory in any way. For
instance, you need to take into account your employees’ gender and
religious beliefs. Forcing an employee to wear something that might
be offensive or against their religion can be considered infringing
on their employee rights.
Avoiding
imposing dress codes that will sexualize employees is also important.
Letting women wear only heels or tight skirts can be considered
sexualizing them.
Employers
should also be accommodating about the preferences and needs of their
employees. If an employee is uncomfortable about a certain dress code
or a complaint about how it will go against there religious beliefs
is escalated, employers should listen.
If
you think a dress code is infringing on your human rights, don’t
hesitate to get the help of North Vancouver employment lawyers such
as Lakes, Whyte LLP. Employment
Lawyers
in North Vancouver
can also help employers develop company policies and codes that will
not trample on human rights.
