"Sleighing" Workplace Risks: A WHS Guide to Christmas Party Planning

Ah, the office Christmas party—a time to let your hair down and bond with colleagues outside the fluorescent glare of the office lights. But before you grab a cold one and hit the dance floor, it's worth remembering that what happens at the party doesn’t always stay at the party—especially if it lands you in hot water. With a little planning, your workplace celebration can be filled with holiday cheer while steering clear of any post-party headaches. 

Identifying Potential "Grinch" Moments 

Christmas parties are about fun, but failing to address common risks could leave you saying, "All I want for Christmas is a lawyer." Here are the big-ticket risks to watch out for: 

1. Alcohol-Fuelled Mishaps: 
   Excessive drinking can lead to embarrassing karaoke, inappropriate behaviour, or worse—legal claims of harassment. The recent case of Return to Work Corporation of South Australia v Valentine [2022] SAET 134 serves as a cautionary tale. In this instance, an employee injured herself during a spa-related mishap at a Christmas party fuelled by unlimited alcohol, and the court deemed the injury compensable due to the employer’s failure to manage risks. 

2. Sexual Harassment: 
   The festive season can blur professional boundaries, and sexual harassment is a risk that cannot be ignored. This issue may arise alongside alcohol consumption but should be addressed as a distinct and serious concern. A proactive policy and pre-event reminders can go a long way in ensuring everyone feels safe. 

3. Injuries from Physical Activities (Like Overenthusiastic Limbo): 
   Sure, a game of backyard cricket might seem harmless—until someone goes full Shane Warne and twists their ankle. Keep games low-risk and avoid activities that might lead to "workplace limbo" (literally or figuratively). 

4. Weather-Related Risks: 
   Whether it’s a heatwave or a sudden downpour, Mother Nature isn’t always on your party-planning committee. Prepare for all scenarios with sunscreen, hydration, or an indoor backup plan. 

5. Aggression, Violence and Bullying: 
   In WorkSafe Victoria v Yousif [2023], a company director’s shocking behaviour at a Christmas party—including taping an apprentice to a crane—resulted in a $60,000 fine. The case underscores the importance of anti-bullying policies and leadership accountability. 

6. Transportation Woes: 
   “Driving home for Christmas” should remain a festive tune, not a WHS nightmare. Unsafe transport arrangements for intoxicated staff could leave your party under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.  

7. Inclusion of Non-Employees: 
   Contractors, suppliers, and even customers might attend your event. Your duty of care extends to these guests too, so don’t let "plus-ones" become your Achilles’ heel. 

Festive Foresight: Pre-Party Risk Assessment 

Before stuffing your stocking with safety measures, take a step back and identify potential risks. A pre-party risk assessment can help you spot hazards early— like slippery floors or tangled tinsel. A pre-event safety check is essential to avoid any "fa-la-la-la-falls. Evaluate factors like the venue, the activities, and the mix of attendees (including non-employees). It’s the best way to ensure that your festive plans don’t come with a side of workplace liability. 

Stuffing Your Stocking with Safety Measures 

Once you’ve scoped out the risks, it’s time to put safeguards in place: 

• Communicate the "Nice List": 
  Remind all attendees—such as employees, contractors, suppliers, and other guests—that workplace policies, including those on harassment and bullying, apply to all work functions. Be sure to also address social media conduct, advising attendees to avoid posting photos or comments that could harm the reputation of others or the organisation. A pre-party email can set the tone, clarify expectations, and prevent misunderstandings. 

• Serve the "Holiday Spirits" Responsibly: 
  Limit alcohol consumption through drink tokens or a capped bar tab and ensure there’s plenty of food available to balance alcohol intake. Offering substantial snacks or meals not only keeps the party-goers satisfied but also helps minimise the effects of drinking. Keep the fizzy water and mocktails flowing so the "holiday spirits" don’t take over. 

• Plan Activities Thoughtfully: 
  Games are fun until someone gets injured trying to outdo their boss in a three-legged race. Keep activities low-risk and make sure everyone can participate safely. 

• Prepare for Weather Challenges: 
  Whether you’re sweating it out under the sun or braving summer storms, have shaded areas, hydration stations, and a wet-weather contingency plan in place. No one wants a Christmas party to end with "raindrops keep falling on my head." 

• Arrange "Sleigh Safe" Transport: 
  Organise ride-share vouchers, shuttle buses, or designated drivers to ensure everyone gets home safely. Employers must take reasonable steps to ensure everyone gets home safely. Because no one wants a WHS incident in their stocking. 

• Lead by Example: 
  Managers and senior staff should set the tone. If they’re modelling responsible and professional behaviour, it’ll encourage others to follow suit. 

• Appoint a Responsible Person: 
  Have a designated "party monitor" who knows the workplace safety policies and can act quickly if something goes awry. Think of them as your WHS Santa, keeping the naughty in check and the nice on track. 

Final Thoughts…

Christmas parties should be the highlight of the year, not a liability waiting to happen. By checking your list twice and addressing these potential pitfalls, you can ensure your Christmas party is remembered for all the right reasons.  
 
After all, the only thing that should be "lit" this season is the Christmas tree.  

Here’s to a holly, jolly, and incident-free celebration! 

---

Need Expert Support?

Risk Collective supports businesses in creating safer and more respectful environments—whether it’s for everyday operations or special events like your Christmas party. From tailored policies to practical risk controls, we’re here to help you celebrate responsibly.