No matter the industry you’re in, the way you dress at work can have a huge impact on how customers and clients perceive you, and how your colleagues interact with you. This is especially true in the pharmacy field, where proper attire is critical to ensuring a safe and sterile environment.
What is the Standard Dress Code?
When it comes to pharmacy technician dress codes, the overarching goal is for everyone to present a professional and polished front. Generally speaking, this includes long pants and closed-toe shoes, along with a collared shirt in either long or short sleeves. In the summer months, women can wear skirts, provided it’s conservative and not too short. Hair is expected to be neat and away from the face, and jewelry is expected to be minimal or even absent altogether.
Safety Considerations
In addition to looking professional, appropriate pharmacy technician attire also has a lot to do with safety. This not only applies to the patient, but to the technician themselves, as well. Certain items of clothing should not be worn, to avoid the potential of a hazardous situation. This includes loose-fitting or baggy clothes that could catch on a chair or machine, as well as ties, necklaces, and other long items that could get stuck somewhere. Additionally, jewelry should be kept to a minimum, as it could potentially be broken and end up in someone’s medication.
Analysis of Dress Code Compliance
At the end of the day, it’s up to the individual pharmacy to analyze and review the dress code compliance of their technicians. The pharmacist in charge should make sure that his/her employees are adhering to the dressing code and take disciplinary measure accordingly if they are not.
Example
As a pharmacy technician, Bobby must strive to maintain a professional and sterile workplace. On his shifts, Bobby wears standard closed-toe shoes, black slacks, and a polo shirt with his name and job title embroidered onto a name badge that is visible to customers and colleagues. Additionally, Bobby keeps his hair neat and away from his face, and his jewelry minimal so as not to interfere with his work. By adhering to the dress code, Bobby demonstrates to customers and colleagues that he is dedicated to providing a safe, efficient service.
FAQs
Q: Are slips, high heels and make up permissible?
A: No, it is not appropriate to wear shoes with a high heel, open-toe shoes, or slip-on shoes. Nor is it appropriate to wear heavy make up.
Q: Are piercings and tattoos allowed?
A: Visible body art and piercings are highly discouraged. All piercings should be removed and tattoos should be kept completely covered during the shift.
Q: Is a name badge required?
A: Yes, all pharmacy technicians must wear a name badge that includes their full name and title.