Work Christmas parties will be very different this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Safety precautions include social distancing, venue capacity & the way people are expected to interact. Despite continued relaxations, it is important for businesses to know what they can & can not do as well as the importance of reiterating your Code of Conduct policy.
2020 has certainly been an unprecedented year which has impacted and influenced the way we live. We all experienced periods of isolation and were encouraged to work from home (where possible) and avoid physical contact with people outside our household. Fortunately for Australia, the crisis has begun to ease, and most businesses have been able to resume operations.
With staff members reuniting after a rather tumultuous year, most will be looking forward to getting together and farewell the work year at the Christmas party.
It is very important for Employers to remind staff of the current restrictions and their responsibility to behave responsibly and uphold the company values. They could do so via written communication (email) or by holding a meeting prior to the event.
Employees should be reminded of their obligations under the business’ Code of Conduct as well as items such as:
- responsible consumption of alcohol
- transportation to/from the party
- appropriate behaviour around the colleagues
- companies’ zero tolerance for drug use
With public health rules in NSW eased to allow up to 300 people at a corporate event. Employers are being encouraged to use outdoor venues or reduce the number of people sitting together. Each state/territory currently have different guidelines which are regularly changing, so it is recommended you check before your specific event.
As per current regulations, people will be expected to be seated for most of the event (no dancing).
For further information, please contact us or refer to the following:
Source: Sydney Morning Herald
Title: No mingling or dancing: How COVID-19 will change your work Christmas party
Read Time: 2 minutes
Source: NSW Government
Title: Functions and corporate events
Read time: 3 minutes