A new law that grants Sikhs permission to wear their turban in all workplaces has come into force in the UK.
Under the previous Employment Act it was possible for Sikhs to be allowed to wear a turban rather than safety equipment however, it did not grant those working in less dangerous work environments, such as factories and warehouses, the same exemption.
Long Campaign
The amendment comes following a long campaign by pressure groups and Sikhs to allow all Sikh workers permission to wear their turban regardless of their workplace. The previous employment law only had the exemption if the workers operated in dangerous areas.
According to the Sikh Council, many workers that worked in factories and other workplaces had faced discrimination and disciplinary hearings as a result of their refusal to wear helmets, other safety equipment, or remove their turban.
Although the new rule means that effectively Sikhs can wear their turban at any time when working, there are some occupations that still require safety equipment such as service in the armed forces.
Secretary General of Sikh Council UK, Gurmel Singh said: "We are pleased that our long campaign has enabled a vital change in the law.
"It will make a real difference to Sikhs in the UK by increasing the number of workplaces that members of the community can work in while maintaining their religiously mandated identity."
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