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9 ways that the office holiday party needs to be policed

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With the festive season upon us, many HR professionals have been tasked with planning the perfect holiday party.

While these parties are a good time to thank employees for a job well done, XpertHR pointed out that such celebrations may carry a great deal of risk for employers - from claims of religious discrimination and sexual harassment to drunk driving.

In line with that, XpertHR summed up nine ways employers can minimise the risk of liability when it comes to holiday parties:

1. Enforce discrimination, harassment and employee conduct policies

Remind everyone that workplace policies regarding discrimination, harassment, employee dating, employee conduct and its dress code will remain in effect even during the holiday party, and employees as well as supervisors will be liable for violations.

2. Have supervisors set a good example

Leading by example is the best way to get employees to follow the rules. Get supervisors to lead the way and set a good example for the rest of the employees by enforcing and complying with policies regarding discrimination and harassment as well as the employer's code of conduct.

3. Exercise caution if serving alcohol

Excessive consumption of alcohol can result in myriad issues such as car accidents, injuries, discrimination, harassment and inappropriate and offensive conduct. If your organisation decides to serve or allow alcohol, a management employee should be designated to monitor alcohol intake and make sure employees do not become too intoxicated or incoherent.

Source: Giphy

4. Keep the focus off religion

In planning for any holiday party, it is important for employers to avoid overly religious symbols such as Christmas trees, nativity scenes and mistletoe when it comes to party decorations and avoid overly religious music.

5. Do not make attendance mandatory

Some employees may not want to attend the holiday party and if attendance is mandatory it may be considered working time and hourly employees may be entitled to overtime.

6. Carefully plan the menu and entertainment

Make sure to take the individual needs and concerns of diverse employees into account. For example, if any of your employees are vegetarians, ensure that vegetarian options are available.

Source: Giphy

7. Be inclusive of all employees

While not all employees will want to attend the party, as an employer, you should still invite all employees to the party - from those working in the various offices or job sites and even employees who telecommute or work remotely.

8. Consider whether to invite spouses or significant others

Remember to be inclusive of all employees and respect their personal relationships.

9. Respond to complaints in a timely fashion

Once on notice that an employee is complaining of discrimination, harassment or inappropriate conduct, the employer and HR have a legal duty to follow up and document the complaint and begin an investigation if warranted.

Source: Giphy

Beth Zoller, legal editor, XpertHR, commented: "Even though the event may be held away from the employer's premises and during what is generally considered to be nonworking hours, the employer should reiterate that the same policies are in effect and that employees should treat each other with respect and common courtesy.

Photo / 123RF

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