It’s hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner, but here we are in the throes of the festive season and year-end celebrations. Most work places host a Christmas social event for their staff in one form or another, which can be a great way to boost staff morale and show appreciation for their efforts during the year. However, if you are serving alcohol at these work events you must be a responsible host and ensure your staff stay safe while they are enjoying themselves.
Being a responsible host could include:
- Supplying a range of low and non-alcoholic drinks as well as alcoholic beverages so there are plenty of options to choose from.
- Serving food – and making it available throughout the event.
- Limit the amount of alcohol available, and serve drinks as opposed to allowing self-service.
- Put on activities so everyone has more to do than just drink.
- Keeping the venue or activities a secret can be fun, but it’s also important to allow your staff to prepare for what’s planned. Tell them what appropriate clothing and footwear would be, if sunscreen and hats are recommended, and ensure that any activities you have planned are appropriate for the ages of your staff.
- Consider providing rides or even a bus to and from the venue, or ensure that everyone has options for getting home safely.