Work party watchdogs

The West Australian, 12.12.16.

Grinch-like bosses are banning mobile phones from Christmas work parties and monitoring “Secret Santa” gifts that might offend thin-skinned staff.

Lawyers are even urging employers to appoint “designated sober staff’ to watch over drinking workmates.

Workers’ compensation consultant Logic Business Resources has prepared a party plan for bosses advising them to have a plan for ”a first aid kit” and a qualified first aider for the duration.

It suggests employers ration the booze to prevent a legal hangover. “If you thought your IT guy was a little clumsy, imagine him with 12 beers under his belt,” the document says.

“If you thought the marketing assistant was a little flirtatious, imagine her after six glasses of champagne. Sexual harassment complaints, offensive conservations, embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions, karaoke – they always happen aided by a little booze.”

Hopgood Ganim Lawyers has advised employers to “appoint a couple of sober senior staff to keep an eye on things” at parties.

It has also cautioned companies to take care in posting party pictures on the intranet because of the trouble they could cause.