Planning Ahead for Holiday Party Risks
While holiday office parties are a good opportunity to bring employees together, they present a variety of potential risks for organizations. And with social media, even slight misconducts can be amplified if they go viral. What might have been an embarrassment that could be handled quietly, internally, can quickly become a reputation issue.
According to an article by Lloyd’s, the addition of social media “can seriously impair a company’s ability to manage a crisis.”
“Social media and business entertainment can be a challenging mix—whether it is a sales conference, awards dinner or a Christmas party—the use of social media in the work environment has to be carefully considered,” he said, adding that websites like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram enable almost instant sharing of information, but even email can cause problems. An employee intending to send a funny email to a coworker, for example, could accidentally send it to clients.
Steve Adcock, Underwriting Manager at QBE Europe observed that alcohol can lead to a heightened risk of inappropriate comments, behavior or even assault. “People can lose their inhibitions and may not think about what they say or do,” he said. “Employees will not always get along at the Christmas party. Disagreements can lead to hurt feelings through to a potential assault.”
Paul Griffin, Head of Employment and Labor at international law firm, Norton Fulbright cautioned that an employer is liable for the wrong doings or injuries of their employees, unless they can show they have taken all reasonable steps to prevent them.
To protect themselves and their employees, organizations need to advise staff attending a party that the usual company rules still apply, Alter advised. “A company policy should make it clear that any event that is associated with work should be treated as work, and that the social media policy continues to
To help you avoid safety mishaps and mitigate your holiday risk, risk management professionals advise you:
• Inspect all venues (both on- and off-site) it to ensure they meet safety standards. Note exits, emergency lighting, and flooring to prevent slips and falls, particularly if there is a chance of bad weather.
• Consider the effects weather may have on safe travel to and from the party. If needed, take precautions to keep sidewalks and parking lots clear if the event is outside of normal business hours.
• Consider potential security needs, especially if the event is in an unfamiliar neighborhood or if the venue is closed to the public.
• Observe party-goers to ensure no one drives drunk, one wanders off, or enters a parking lot or garage alone after dark.
• Create an emergency plan in case someone is injured or needs medical assistance. Locate the closest hospital and designate anyone who can perform CPR or use a defibrillator.
• Review situations for employees with disabilities who may require special attention. For example, if a disabled employee must use a wheelchair, check that there is a safe entrance, navigate the event and know how to deal with a possible emergency.
Enjoy a happy, risk-free holiday season!