Kevin Marshall
December 5, 2022
Holiday parties are a great idea to express appreciation to your employees and contractors: Done well, they boost team morale and improve individual working relationships. However, done poorly, they can harm staff relationships, and they can lead to claims against your firm and/or your employees. Be aware that you, as an employer, can be held liable for what happens during the holiday party – and, in some instances, what happens after the party. Be aware of these possible scenarios and take proactive measures to address them, for example:
* Keep the invitation voluntary.
* Before the party and at the beginning of the party, communicate your expectations on company policies, such as anti-harassment guidelines, practicing safety and respect, and the use of cannabis.
* If alcohol is offered, make sure that non-alcoholic beverages are also served.
* Promote responsible drinking, manage drink consumption and offer Über or taxi rides.
* Ensure plenty of food is available that covers all dietary restrictions and religious practices such as meat/vegetarian, halal/kosher, or sugar-free.
* For small parties, designate someone to monitor the party; for larger parties, consider hiring security or delegating a small team to monitor the party.
* Always stay alert for the entire duration of the party to take action as needed. Focus on removing any immediate danger.
* Should discipline be required, reserve that for the next business day. In your investigation, particularly consider the employee’s conduct, the reputation of your company, and past incidents, if any.
And remember the risks of infectious diseases:
- Review and follow the latest directives and recommendations from municipal and provincial authorities re COVID-19 and other transmissible diseases.
- Require testing for COVID within 24 hours before the party begins. ANY guests testing positive or exposed to the virus will not be permitted to attend.
- Ensure that there is adequate ventilation and easy access to the outdoors.
- Provide masks and recommend they be worn as the occasion befits. Can you make it fun? What about a costume party requiring the face be covered, except while eating or drinking?
Have a wonderful celebration! On behalf of my staff, I wish you and yours all of the very best this holiday season. Merry Christmas!
