Minimising risks at Christmas functions & social events
Unfortunately the festive season has lost its charm with many employers as it has become synonymous with increased legal risks.
Armed with forethought and strategies to avoid certain incidents, employers can minimise legal exposure and still enjoy the festive season. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland has prepared a simple checklist to ensure both employees and employers can enjoy social functions.
- Ensure comprehensive policies relating to sexual harassment, equal opportunity and alcohol use are in place
- Issue formal (but friendly) reminders to employees about the dangers of excessive drinking, drink driving and aggressive behaviour
- Impose reasonable limits on supplies of alcohol at functions
- Set reasonable finishing and starting times for functions
- Serve food and provide soft drinks at functions
- Provide supervision to prevent excessive drinking
- Suggest the use of taxis, mini buses, public transport or 'designated drivers'
- Take special care of employees under the legal drinking age
- Ensure you can prove you have taken reasonable steps to make employees aware of policies and acceptable behaviour
Further information
For further information on minimising risks at social functions contact your nearest Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland regional office.