Conditions for purchasing and maintaining workwear by employees themselves

2 August 2023

In the new royal decree that came into force on August 1st, the conditions are clarified under which employees may purchase and maintain their work clothing themselves, against payment of a premium.

PPE vs work clothing

When the clothing is intended to both to protect against risks (PPE) and against dirt (work clothing), the clothing is considered a personal protective equipment (PPE).

The code on well-being at work specifically defines work clothing as "any clothing intended to prevent the employee from getting dirty due to the nature of their activities, but which is not considered PPE, because it is not intended to protect the employee against risks that could threaten their safety or health at work." Specifically, this refers to overalls, a suit consisting of trousers, a T-shirt and jacket, a lab coat or an apron.

Adjusted conditions

A collective labour agreement may provide for the possibility that employees may maintain their work clothing themselves against compensation if the following conditions are met:

The results of the risk assessment show that the work clothing poses no risk to the employee, other persons, or the environment;
The prevention adviser and the committee have issued prior advice;
The employees have received the necessary instructions to adequately carry out the cleaning, repair, and maintenance of the work clothing.