For many workplaces, the festive season is a time of reflection and celebration, often culminating in parties and events to provide employees an opportunity to socialise and celebrate the year that’s been. As the number of social gatherings increase, it is vitally important to prioritise health and safety efforts to ensure a fun-filled and accident-free environment for all.

Festive Season Risks in the Workplace

Celebrations come with decorations — and with them, certain risks. Extra lights, cords and festive ornaments can create hazards, increasing the likelihood of slips, trips and falls. Overloaded electrical sockets and flammable decorations, such as string lights and candles, heighten fire safety concerns. Where seasonal parties include alcohol, there is an even greater risk of accidents and conflicts. From a health perspective, there are many concerns to consider: improper food handling at gatherings can cause foodborne illnesses, while the emotional pressures of the season can impact mental wellbeing.

We want you to have a safe and enjoyable festive season, so here are some of our tips to mitigate major risks in the workplace:

  • Setting the Standards for Festive Behaviour

Whilst the festive season is an excellent time to wind down and have fun, it's critical to ensure staff are gently reminded of your company's conduct, safety and respect policies. This includes OHS, bullying and harassment standards. Designate managers or responsible individuals to lead by example and ensure employees feel supported and informed about expected behaviour. Reinforcing holiday safety topics in team meetings or toolbox talks can also help reduce the risk of accidents.

  • Safe Drinking

When hosting an event with alcohol, it may be prudent to also offer food, water and non-alcoholic options. Providing non-alcohol-related activities can help to prevent over-consumption by shifting focus to games or events.

  • Power Up Safely

Office parties often involve lights and electrical displays, which can pose significant risks if not managed appropriately. Use only certified lights and check any decorations for faults. Ensure employees never place electric lights on metallic trees to prevent electric shocks or fires.

  • Venue Safety

Workplace functions, even those off-premises, become a ‘workplace’ for the purpose of the Anti-discrimination and OHS legislation. Ensuring the end-of-year functions are hosted at a safe venue is of utmost importance, so it’s key to inspect the venue before the event. Watch out for any tripping or slipping hazards, and ensure that fire exits, toilets, non-smoking areas and venue policies are clearly displayed.

  • Food Safety Precautions

Label foods containing allergens to protect employees with allergies and store perishable items correctly. If employees decide to bring in home-cooked food to share, it’s vital to remind them to communicate any allergens in dishes to keep everyone safe. Ensure to communicate with staff to ensure shared food is cooked adequately and stored at the correct temperature, to avoid food-borne illnesses.

  • Providing Safe Transport

Although it’s not a requirement to provide transport to and from your end-of-year events, it can provide peace-of-mind knowing everyone has a safe route home. You can ensure safe travel for employees by offering pre-arranged transportation options like bus hires, rideshares or taxi reimbursements.

 

From Gallagher Bassett, we sincerely hope you have a safe and happy festive season.