Could a Christmas party result in an employment tribunal?

With the office Christmas get together just around the corner, awareness of party etiquette is important for employees hoping to keep their job or keen to avoid an employment tribunal.

Patricia Leonard, employment barrister at 7 Bedford Row, explained that employees can be dismissed at a Christmas party if they get into a fight or display inappropriate sexual behaviour.

According to Ms Leonard, just because a worker may not be at their place of employment, they can still be dismissed for their conduct towards their colleagues.

"It's not a blatant 'I'm at a Christmas party so therefore I am not liable for my actions', you can still be dismissed and probably will be," Ms Leonard stated.

To avoid an unfavourable situation, employees and employers are advised to watch their consumption of alcohol.

If a free bar is provided, employment tribunals may also be unsympathetic if there is an issue later on because employees are getting out of control, according to Ms Leonard.

Employers are also advised not to put up mistletoe. Policies on harassment and discrimination still apply at an office party and mistletoe can create uncomfortable situations.

Published by Kevin Round