trendz - our client newsletter

keeping Christmas merry, but also safe, in your office

Christmas gives all of us the chance to get some rest and revitalization, while all those pre-Christmas parties can provide both employers and employees with a unique chance to get to know each other in a relaxed environment. However, the much-anticipated annual Christmas party can go seriously wrong. As  an employer, it is worth being aware of possible problems and their consequences.

Some of the most common risks to be aware of are alcohol related, especially accidents caused by driving under the influence of alcohol. Also common are injuries caused by pranks and trauma resulting from harassment. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that these events to do not occur and that his/her employees are kept safe at Christmas parties. As nobody wants to start the New Year dealing with a personal grievance claim, these risks should be taken seriously.

Here are a few tips for employers to ensure that the Christmas period is all that it should be:

• The employment agreement and policies and procedures of the work place must be observed at Christmas parties as at any other time. If you alert employees to this prior to the Christmas party they will not be able to plead ignorance in the event of recourse against unacceptable behaviour.

• While the odd prank is inevitable, make sure that this does not involve sexual harassment or racial, or any other, discrimination prohibited under the Human Rights Act. Also ensure that it does not result in physical injury or psychological trauma.

• Provide sufficient food and non-alcoholic drinks, monitor drinking and arrange for taxis to get people home. Ensuring that at least one sober person is left in charge is also a good idea.

If you have any questions relating to the above or to holiday pay requirements please do not hesitate to contact us. We wish you a happy and stress-free Christmas!

send to a friend

Know someone who might find this article useful? Send this page to a friend.

privacy 

View our privacy policy.

about us | what we do | fyi | what's new | contact us | our site | home

© Copyright Barbara Buckett & Associates 2001. Website created by e-Xpert developments limited.