Don’t let your Christmas party become a workplace claim

Employers Beware: Christmas parties can be a Work, Health and Safety (WHS) minefield

Work Christmas parties provide a well-earned opportunity to have fun with your staff and celebrate your achievements. But employers beware: Christmas parties can be a WHS minefield.

Under workplace laws, employers have a positive duty to ensure a safe workplace by proactively preventing sexual harassment and other WHS hazards.

How can employers minimise risks at work functions?

Preventative measures for employers to minimise risks at work functions include:

• Policies & Procedures: Establishing and regularly reviewing your policies and procedures, including psychological WHS risk management and managing serious workplace incidents.
  

• Code of Conduct: Ensuring ahead of time that your staff know the workplace guidelines and expectations around behaviour and alcohol consumption, including reviewing your code of conduct.
  

• Alcohol Consumption: Limiting the amount of alcohol being served and ensuring your staff are not intoxicated.
  

• Inclusion: Considering the diverse needs of your employees when planning the event, such as accessibility, dietary restrictions, religious beliefs, and cultural practices.
  

• Third-Party Safety Checking: Checking the venue for safety hazards.
  

• Safe Transport: Providing suitable transport to ensure everyone gets home safely.
  

• Clear Reporting Pathways: Remind staff how to report concerns and ensure prompt, sensitive follow-up.

How should employers respond to issues or complaints related to the staff Christmas party?

Be prepared to investigate any issues or complaints: If an accident or WHS incident occurs at your workplace function, or if you receive a complaint or allegation of inappropriate conduct, it is important to respond in a timely manner by conducting a fair and confidential workplace investigation. In some cases, hiring an experienced and independent workplace investigator is the best option.

Read Five reasons to engage an independent workplace investigator >

Christmas should be a happy time, not a time to worry about unplanned workplace claims

Don’t pay more for your Christmas party than you had planned – make sure you are complying with safety policies and reminding your staff to adhere to your code of conduct.

For more information, please contact us today.