After 3 years of COVID, lockdowns, travel cancellations and missed key moments of life, workplaces are returning to ‘COVID-normal’. For many Australian workplaces, workers are eagerly anticipating the return of the end-of-year work / Christmas parties. So what do businesses need to do?
Despite NSW and VIC currently experiencing the 4th wave of COVID, this year sees the return of the end-of-year work party or Christmas parties. With many workers working remotely or hybrid working, the end-of-year work function is a time to reconnect with co-workers and socialise but these celebrations can also lead to inappropriate conduct by employees that can lead to workers’ compensation claims involving bullying, sexual harassment or discrimination, but also include health and safety breaches. Employers have a duty of care to ensure that these events are COVID-safe for their staff’s health and well-being. Employers can monitor the environment where intoxication could lead to inappropriate behaviour or physical harm which could lead to dismissal and legal consequences.
Employers can minimise risks to the health and safety of employees by:
- implementing a COVID-safe plan e.g social distancing, cleaning and hygiene protocols, providing masks, RATs
- updating internal policies and procedures such as work, health and safety, outlining appropriate conduct
- remind employees of their obligations ie to stay home if they are unwell, understand Code of Conduct
- monitoring issues such as responsible alcohol consumption and ensuring employees can return home safely
Employers also need to consider COVID-19 restrictions as NSW and VIC are currently experiencing the 4th wave which employers have to take into account when organising any work functions. Restrictions could include that:
- venues will only permit fully vaccinated people,
- facilities have the capacity for a number of people per specific area
- limit of attendees allowed at the venue
- permissions to dance or eat/drink whilst standing
- COVID safety supervisor required at event
Above all remember to have fun and be safe.
If you need help, contact our team or for further information, please refer to:
Source: Lander & Rogers
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