Remember a work event is considered an extension of the working environment and employment legislation will still apply. Therefore, you have more responsibility than you might think even if you organise the event at the pub after work.
You will often see the most senior person have one drink and then disappear, so they do not have to deal with issues later in the evening. Employees will be relaxed when large measures of alcohol have been consumed that is when incidents will happen.
There are a number of issues you should consider and these may not just be the obvious ones.
- Ensure employees understand that you want them to enjoy themselves but any activity that would not be acceptable at work would not be acceptable at the party.
- That discipline and grievance, bullying and harassment and dignity at work policies will still apply to employees who overstep the mark.
- Make sure there is food to soak up some of the alcohol and ensure there are soft drinks available.
- It is also advisable to ensure there are responsible non drinkers who are taking people home or arrange taxi's or minibuses.
Have a great festive season.
