5. Why this female worker wants to ditch her shirt

In recent years, discussions around gender equality in the workplace have taken center stage, addressing everything from wage disparities to representation in leadership roles. However, a new debate has emerged that questions dress code policies in physically demanding jobs—specifically, why men are often allowed to work shirtless in extreme heat while women are required to remain covered.

This conversation recently gained traction due to an Australian tradeswoman, Shianne Fox, who publicly questioned workplace dress code standards after being told she could not remove her shirt while working in the scorching 40°C (104°F) heat. Her viral social media post sparked discussions on gender norms, workplace expectations, and professional conduct.

The Workplace Double Standard: Men vs. Women in Physical Labor

In many labor-intensive industries, such as construction, landscaping, and roadwork, it is common to see male workers shirtless in extreme heat. This practice is generally accepted as a way to prevent overheating and discomfort during long hours under the sun. However, the same leniency is rarely extended to women in similar roles.

Shianne Fox, known as "The Bikini Tradie" on social media, works in construction and landscaping. She recently shared her frustration on TikTok, highlighting what she sees as a double standard.

"It’s a 40-degree day today, and I’m the one who has to wear my shirt while all the boys on-site don’t have to wear theirs," she stated.

Fox argued that this rule is not only unfair but also a reflection of outdated workplace policies that assume women’s bodies are inherently more "distracting" than men’s.

“I just want to be able to do my job comfortably, like the guys. But apparently, it would be ‘inappropriate’ if I removed my shirt like they do,” she added.

Fox's comments raised important questions about workplace regulations: Should dress codes be adjusted for extreme weather conditions, or should companies maintain a uniform policy that applies to all employees regardless of gender?

Professionalism vs. Comfort: The Arguments on Both Sides

Fox’s viewpoint received mixed reactions. Many social media users supported her argument, agreeing that gender equality should extend to workplace policies on attire. Others, however, argued that professionalism should take precedence over personal comfort.

Arguments in Favor of Relaxing Dress Code Restrictions:

1. Equal Treatment in the Workplace: If men can work shirtless in extreme heat, women should be allowed to do the same. The assumption that women’s bodies are inherently more inappropriate than men’s reinforces outdated gender norms.
2. Health and Safety Considerations: High temperatures can pose serious health risks, including heat exhaustion and dehydration. Allowing workers—regardless of gender—to wear cooler clothing could prevent heat-related illnesses.
3. Breaking Stereotypes in Male-Dominated Industries: By advocating for equal treatment, Fox hopes to encourage more women to join blue-collar trades, where female representation remains significantly low.

Arguments for Maintaining Current Dress Code Policies:

1. Professionalism in the Workplace: Many believe that maintaining a professional image is crucial, especially in industries where workers interact with clients, businesses, or the public. While men going shirtless may be common, it is not necessarily considered professional.
2. Workplace Safety Regulations: Many companies have strict dress codes that are in place for safety reasons. Protective clothing may be required to prevent workplace injuries, such as sunburns, chemical exposure, or abrasions.
3. Societal Norms and Expectations: While attitudes towards gender and dress codes are evolving, some argue that businesses must adhere to general workplace standards to maintain order and avoid unnecessary controversy.

The Reaction: Backlash and Support

While Fox received support from many social media users, not all women in the trades industry agreed with her stance. Some female workers expressed concerns that her advocacy could negatively impact their credibility in male-dominated fields.

"She does not speak for all female tradies," one woman commented.

"She makes real female workers look bad," another user added.

Despite the criticism, Fox remains firm in her belief that discussions about gender equality in the workplace should extend beyond traditional issues like wage gaps and leadership opportunities.

“I want women to feel like they can work in these industries without unnecessary restrictions,” she said. “If my message can help even one woman feel more comfortable entering a trade, then it’s worth the backlash.”

The Bigger Issue: Women in Blue-Collar Industries

While Fox’s debate is centered around workplace attire, it sheds light on a larger issue—women’s underrepresentation in skilled trades.

A 2023 Deloitte survey found that for every 12 men working in trade-related fields, only one woman is employed in the same industry. This gender imbalance highlights the challenges that women face when entering and thriving in traditionally male-dominated careers.

Common barriers include:

• Workplace Culture: Many women report experiencing discrimination or skepticism about their abilities when working in trades.
• Lack of Female Role Models: The limited visibility of successful women in these industries can discourage new generations from pursuing careers in trades.
• Restrictive Workplace Policies: Dress codes and other outdated rules may contribute to a feeling of exclusion or inequality.

The Path Forward: Finding a Balance

While Fox’s argument is unlikely to lead to an immediate change in workplace policies, it has ignited an important conversation about fairness and representation in blue-collar jobs.

Employers looking to foster inclusivity in the workplace may consider:

• Reevaluating Dress Code Policies: Companies should assess whether their dress codes are practical and equitable for all employees, especially in extreme weather conditions.
• Encouraging Open Dialogue: Organizations should create a space for workers to voice concerns about workplace policies without fear of backlash.
• Supporting Women in Trades: Efforts to recruit, train, and retain women in traditionally male-dominated fields can help create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

Conclusion: A Debate Worth Having

The question of whether women should be allowed to work shirtless, like their male colleagues, is about more than just dress codes—it’s about equality, workplace standards, and representation in trades.

While some may see Fox’s argument as a bold challenge to societal norms, others believe that maintaining professionalism should remain the priority. Either way, her viral discussion has put a spotlight on the broader issue of gender equality in blue-collar industries.

At the end of the day, the most important takeaway is that workplaces should strive for policies that balance inclusivity, practicality, and professionalism. The more these conversations take place, the closer we get to a workforce where everyone—regardless of gender—can thrive under fair and equal conditions.

What are your thoughts? Should workplaces reconsider dress code policies to reflect modern gender equality standards, or should professionalism take priority? Share your opinions in the comments!