It is that time of year again where many companies prepare to celebrate their end of year work functions and Christmas festivities.
While this is a great time to celebrate the achievements of the past year, and for workers to socialise with their colleagues, employers are reminded that they are still responsible for the health and safety of workers at these events.
Do your workers know how they are expected to behave at work functions?
It is important to remember that WHS responsibilities extend to work functions. A company’s WHS policies, procedures and responsibilities still apply when celebrating.
In some cases, employers may be liable for inappropriate behaviour, including bullying, harassment and discrimination that may occur at a work celebration.
Workers are responsible for behaving safely and respectfully at work functions. Therefore it is important to make sure workers understand what behaviour and conduct is acceptable, and what disciplinary procedures are in place, should misconduct occur.
Do you serve alcohol at work functions?
The presence of alcohol can come with an increased chance of risky or inappropriate behaviour.
It is recommended that if alcohol is service, employers should ensure plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks are available.
It is also important to encourage workers to look out for their workmates. If a workers is concerned that a colleague is under the influence, they should speak to their manager to keep them safe.
Other safety measures
Other safety measures you may wish to incorporate into your workplace function can include:
- Setting clear start and finish times
- Offer various transport options for workers to get home safely
- Consider activities as part of your workplace function. Ten pin bowling, playing a game of cricket, a boat cruise or fishing charter, are just a couple of ideas that takes the focus away from drinking and can be fun team-building activities too
These steps aren’t difficult to implement, but can go a long way to ensuring everyone celebrates safely this Christmas.
