The TUC is urging employers to drop ‘inappropriate’ requirements for workers to wear uncomfortable or dangerous footwear.

The call comes following the publication of its new guide, Working feet and footwear, which found that while many companies allow employees to wear sensible and safe footwear, a number of big-city institutions and upmarket shops insist female staff who deal with the public wear slip-on shoes or high heels.

The TUC warns that such dress codes – apart from being sexist – can lead to long-term foot and back problems, especially when combined with prolonged standing.

Said general secretary Brendan Barber: "When researching case studies for the guide on footwear we were surprised how many times we found that employers' dress codes did not permit the wearing of comfortable, sensible footwear by women."

He continued: "Feet bear the brunt of the daily working life, and instead of worrying about what their staff look like, employers should focus on the effect that the wrong shoes and prolonged standing can have. Employers should look at encouraging their staff to come to work in comfortable shoes and, where possible, provide the option of sitting."

The guide, which includes a footwear checklist for union safety reps, can be found via the link below.