Toronto Star Interviews Lior Samfiru on Tattoos in the Workplace

Interview Summary

For many years, tattoos in the workplace were considered a hindrance to career opportunities. Many businesses and employers implemented strict dress codes that employees had to abide by. While many employees who used to cover their tattoos during the interview process now no longer do so, employers are still able to deny applications. Can tattoos still damage job prospects?

Lior Samfiru, an Ontario employment lawyer and co-founding Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, spoke with the Toronto Star about employee rights and employer expectations in the workplace.

Interview Notes

• Denying a job application: Samfiru noted that despite the changing norms, employers are still able to deny an application based on an employee’s tattoos. “It’s because having a tattoo is not a protected right, such as age, disability or sexual orientation,” said Samfiru. “Having tattoos … is not a right that’s protected under human rights legislation.”
• Workplace policies on tattoos: Employees refusing to abide by workplace policies can face termination or discipline. “If an employee doesn’t comply, they can be fired — but it would be considered without cause, and the employee would be entitled to severance,” Samfiru explained.
• Advice for employees: “It’s a good idea to tell your employer if you have a tattoo not visible during the interview process that may be visible when working.”

Related Resources

For further insights and discussions related to employee rights:

• Dress code policies in the workplace