28 October 2015

Advice from BPIF HR on how to survive the office Christmas party

The office Christmas party is a great chance for colleagues to socialise outside of the workplace at the end of the year.

However, in recent years there seems to have been an increase in stories of drunk and disorderly behaviour and harassment following festive gatherings.

In essence, the office party is an extension of the usual work environment, no matter where or when it is held. According to UK law, the employer is responsible for the actions of their employees at such events.
Here are some helpful tips to avoid any possible discrimination or health and safety claims:

• Carry out a risk assessment of the venue in advance of the party, to identify possible hazards - this should include travel to and from the event, as well as accessibility
• Consider the suitability of the venue for under 18s if any of your employees are underage
• Cut down the amount of alcohol supplied and have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks available. Employers could be legally responsible for any drunk disasters, during or even after the party
• Advise managers to avoid discussing legally binding matters such as salary, promotion or prospects in an informal setting where they may not remember what was discussed
• Advise employees on protocol for the day after the office party, deciding on how lenient you will be with working hours and ensuring they are in a fit state to operate machinery
• Investigate all allegations of discrimination promptly, fairly, and in a sensitive manner
• Remind staff of normal rules for behaviour and discrimination policies
• Remember to invite staff who are on Maternity/Paternity leave, as well as agency workers, fixed term temporary and part time staff

Be mindful of the above and you can help ensure the evening is fun for all.

This will help minimise the risk of misconduct or HR issues resulting in grievances, or even more severely, a Tribunal claim.
This can not only cost you in terms of compensation awards, but also in the extensive management time required to address any concerns.