Shorts & Workplace Safety

This question is asked every year as spring turns into summer. Ken Smylie with MADSIF has shared the following information…

There are no OSHA or MIOSHA rules that specifically address shorts in the workplace. However, when discussing with safety consultants, they recommend that mechanics wear long pants to avoid hazards…and to minimize dealer liability.

While OSHA standards say nothing specific about wearing shorts, OSHA requires that a business identify all workplace hazards and implement a dress code that is designed to promote workplace safety. OSHA leaves it up to employer to decide whether clothing provides adequate protection. Whatever your decision, your dress code should be written in a way that protects workers from specific hazards in the workplace while also allowing them to perform their jobs in comfort.

If you do allow shorts, pay attention to the incidence of potentially related injuries. If there is an increase in leg burns or cuts, the policy may need to be reevaluated.

OSHA guidelines do address shoes and workplace safety. Standard 1910.136(a) states:

The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses protective footwear when working in areas where there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, or when the use of protective footwear will protect the affected employee from an electrical hazard, such as a static-discharge or electric-shock hazard, that remains after the employer takes other necessary protective measures.

If you have further questions please call MADSIF at (866) 919-9578 or reach out to MADA.