A uniform can be even as important as your skills
You may find it hilarious to pop up in the hospital in a clown suit. But what you will surely find not that amusing is the grim expression on the boss’s face. They may gift you with a cheerful smile in the same. But such a venture is still risky. You had better grab some new FIGS coupon codes now to show up at work wearing anti-wrinkle, stretchy, moisture-wicking, and silk-soft scrubs.
Dress code can be as important to an organization you work for as your credentials and skills. Even the wrong pair of socks may put an end to your attempt to get a position. But a uniform may present an extra burden to your budget. And since you wear it 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week, the attire wears out quite fast. You may need to replace it several times a year to look neat and professional. The question that bothers many industrious people goes as follows. Does an employer have to pay for my uniform? Let’s see what the law has to say about this matter.
OSHA has the last word
The federal Fair Labor Standards Act allows employers to require their employees to wear work clothing. But the act doesn’t make it mandatory. Simply put, you have to put on a uniform if the employer orders so. If your professional duties require a uniform that according to the Occupations Safety and Health Administration is regarded as personal protective equipment, the employer is obliged to pay for it. In any other cases, if OSHA doesn’t regulate your field of activity, the employer can charge you for the cost of your work clothing.
Who takes care of the matter?
Unless you deal with dangerous microorganisms and chemicals, you are likely to pay for your work clothing. You have two options at this point. You can either request the employer to provide you with a uniform or assemble a professional outfit yourself. Let’s look into the advantages of each option to see what may work best for you.
Advantages of choosing a uniform by yourself:
- You get what you pay for – your work clothing will meet all your expectations in terms of style, fabric quality, size, etc. For example, a healthcare professional will find moisture-wicking, stretchy, and super comfortable scrubs at FIGS.
- Exchanges and returns come easy – if you don’t find it comfortable or suitable, just ship it back the same day, with no formal requests and bureaucratic procedures.
- Free shipping, promo codes, sales, and other ways to save money – you can save on buying a uniform yourself in a couple of ways at the same time. FIGS scrubs are shipped for free. You can check the store for sales and promo codes to upgrade your work clothing closet at a sweet discount.
Advantages of having a uniform provided:
- Time-saving – you don’t have to look for it yourself. The employer will take care of the matter.
- A uniform will be standardized – you won’t have to return the clothing if it fails to complies the dress code.
- Safety – if your uniform also serves as a piece of personal protective equipment, it is better to have the employer take care of the matter. They will count all risks and safety aspects to make sure you are properly protected at all times.
Bottom line
Having to deal with dangerous substances or pathogens, you need a specific uniform that also serves as a piece of personal protective equipment. Your employer bears full responsibility for your safety at work. They have to provide you with the proper uniform. But if your professional duties don’t involve teasing deadly viruses or stirring a deep pot full to the edge with a dark green steaming substance, it is best to choose a uniform yourself. You will find work clothing that matches your preferences in all aspects, including style, fit, fabric quality, durability, etc.
