It’s always safer to book your office bash at a hotel, bar or restaurant, where facilities are designed for people having a good time. But if, like many workplaces, you do end up hosting a Christmas do in the office, there are a number of issues you need to be aware of.
Firstly, make sure to tell your employers of what you’re planning. Their responsibilities don’t end at 5.30pm, so they could be liable for any accidents or damages if the premises or the event organisation are under their control.
Involving safety representatives and office first-aiders might be a useful part of planning. A trained union safety rep will be able to spot any potential problems and prevent them ruining the party.
Make sure you and other party organisers know what the late night security arrangements for your office are. Some offices may lock doors and stairwells at night, which could cut off an emergency escape. Check also that you know where the nearest fire extinguishers and alarms are. There should be some in designated places in every workplace.
If you’re going to be serving alcohol at the party, make sure you’ve read your company’s alcohol policy if there is one. You may need to make sure you have personnel department or your manager’s agreement if your policy prohibits alcohol at work.
Get colleagues to plan how they’ll be getting home. Make sure people who normally drive to work go home by another route if they drink. Management can help by thinking ahead and ensuring people don’t have to drink and drive - booking taxis or offering overnight stays can help.
These are only a few pointers though. If you want to make sure that your colleagues only hear jingle bells, and not alarm bells, then you need our free checklist for safety at office parties. You can download it here.
