Overview

• Article L.1121-1 of the Labour Code upholds employee freedom to choose everyday clothing but permits employers to impose dress code limits for safety, hygiene or brand image.
• Article R.4323-95 enshrines that personal protective equipment—such as helmets, safety shoes and gloves—must be worn at all times on construction sites and cannot be waived even during extreme heat.
• To prevent heat-related illnesses, INRS guidelines require firms to shift working hours, increase hydration breaks and provide light, breathable uniforms when temperatures climb.
• Under the latest interpretation, staff without client contact may wear shorts in non-formal roles if all mandatory PPE remains on, though office culture still often deems shorts inappropriate.
• Working shirtless remains forbidden without explicit employer authorization because of hygiene, safety and decency norms, and infractions can lead to disciplinary action or dismissal.