Most holiday party stories occur as a result of when alcohol is served. Here are some lessons and tips that can assist you to create a safe and happy holiday celebration for all.
- Consider hosting the party offsite at a professionally managed facility with trained bar staff who are familiar with the legalities of alcohol consumption for your state. Ask the facility about its policies on alcohol before booking the event.
- Remind employees that normal company rules of conduct apply to parties as well as a normal workday and that they should drink responsibly. You can refer them to your employee handbook for more details.
- Arrange for designated drivers or make an arrangement with a local hotel (with shuttle service) to offer discounted room rates to all employees.
- If you are providing alcoholic drinks, consider using drink tickets. Limit the number of tickets given to each person who attends, and keep the ones who state they will not drink, so the tickets do not go to other attendees.
- Shut down the bar at least one hour before the celebration concludes and set a solid time frame for the festivities.
- Don’t allow employees to tend bar or provide alcohol themselves, be sure to hire a trained professional (no BYOB).
- Designate a responsible person to monitor the party and work with the event staff at the location the day/night of the party.
- Consider scheduling the party on a weeknight, when employees are less likely to binge.
- Do not hang mistletoe as a decoration. This could lead to all sorts of harassment issues and potential complaints.
- Make sure underage employees or guests are not served alcohol, or simply limit who can be invited to the party (for example, no underage children), because alcohol will be served.
- Consult your insurance broker regarding your business policies for alcohol-related exclusions.