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A Guide to Safe Workplace Celebrations

Our friends at NatRoad have put together some quick guidelines for looking after your employees during workplace parties this festive season. 

Working hard throughout the year is part of our industry, just like celebrating the end of the year with your team and workmates.

Safety in the workplace is everyone’s responsibility. Every person has a general duty of care to be safe. The employer has a primary duty of care and must take all reasonable steps to ensure that all persons in the workplace are safe – including at out-of-office celebrations and events. The first step in this is ensuring staff adhere to the following:

  • Company Policies
  • Legislation on Bullying, Sexual Harassment and Discrimination
  • Work Cover
  • Health and Safety Regulations

Hosting a Safe & Fun Workplace Event

Avoid any unpleasant incidents by following these practical guidelines:

1. Set the expectation: remind your team about expected standards of conduct/policies applicable.

2. Plan an event at a location that everyone can enjoy, including dietary requirements.

3. Invitations should set start and finish times, after parties are generally not part of the workplace.

4. Make this clear in advance – if employees need to arrange their own transport.

5. Provide non-alcoholic or low-alcoholic beverages as well as plenty of food.

6. Control the service of alcohol: avoid self-serve, unlimited alcohol, and drinking games or shots.

7. Remind managers to behave appropriately and to subtly control any inappropriate behaviour during the event.

8. After the event, if you get a complaint, deal with it promptly like any other complaint.

9. Investigate as required and take the appropriate disciplinary action.

10. Have fun, take many photos, and celebrate and share the memories.


FAQs

  • Be mindful of cultural and religious diversity when planning celebrations and avoid themes or activities that could potentially exclude or offend employees. Encourage participation from all team members and create a welcoming environment for everyone.

  • Plan workplace celebrations with sufficient lead time to allow for logistics, coordination, and employee RSVPs. For larger events or those held during peak seasons, consider planning several months in advance to secure venues and vendors.

  • If you encounter someone who is attempting to drive home after drinking, intervene and offer alternative transportation options such as rideshare services, taxis, or arranging for a sober friend to drive them home. Encourage them to prioritise safety and avoid driving under the influence.