require-dockerfile-workdir

Require a WORKDIR instruction in Dockerfiles.

Targeted pattern scope

• Repository-root Dockerfile content.

What this rule reports

This rule reports Dockerfiles that do not set an explicit working directory.

Why this rule exists

Without WORKDIR, command path behavior can be inconsistent across images and future image updates.

❌ Incorrect

FROM node:22-alpine
RUN npm ci

✅ Correct

FROM node:22-alpine
WORKDIR /app
RUN npm ci

When not to use it

Disable this rule if container build scripts intentionally rely on the default root working directory.

Rule catalog ID: R091

Further reading

• Dockerfile reference: WORKDIR