Have a holly jolly work Christmas party

On the 9th day of Christmas Cedrec gave to me, a safe, HR friendly, party.

It is the time of the year where workplaces everywhere celebrate the festivities. It is great for team building, strengthening relationships and supporting mental health.

Nevertheless, work Christmas parties are also where health and safety policies can sometimes be forgotten.

The Christmas party is an extension of the workplace, and under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, an employers duty of care extends to functions organised by the company, including Christmas parties.

Under common law, employers can be held directly liable if they do not take reasonable care of employees and their guests attending work parties.

How to have a safe Christmas party

Tips to have a safe Christmas party include:

• choosing a safe venue, whether that be staying in the office where you can control risks or risk assessing an external venue before the party;
• consider any known or reasonable foreseeable hazards, and take appropriate steps ahead of time to either remove them or minimise the risk;
• try to encourage sensible alcohol consumption, as over consumption can reduce brain and bodily function, and impair judgement;
• appoint an appropriate person to monitor health and safety during the party, and have the authority to take action if necessary;
• make first aid provisions, if in the office check first aid kits are up to date, and have at least one first aid trained employee present;
• offer transport, even if it is just the number for a local taxi service, to avoid any unnecessary risks being taken regarding alcohol and driving;
• remind staff that this is technically a work-related activity and refresh them on workplace policies around sexual harassment, drug and alcohol consumption, discrimination and bullying;
• set clear boundaries before the party, establishing a serious stance on unacceptable behaviour and potential consequences.

Taking into account these tips can help employers to keep their employees healthy and safe, whilst still enjoying the party!