The Insurance Risks of the Office Christmas Party

The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the annual office party. While these events are a fantastic opportunity for team bonding and celebration, at the end of a year’s hard work, they also carry inherent risks that businesses should not overlook as they make merry. From minor mishaps to serious incidents, being prepared can make all the difference between fun and fiasco. So, here's a guide to the potential risks of the office Christmas party, what you should insure against and practical tips to make sure your event runs smoothly.

Common risks

Alcohol-related incidents

With the booze flowing and festive spirits high, we all know that overindulgence in alcohol can lead to accidents, property damage or even altercations, and it needs to be remembered that employers could face liability for actions taken by employees under the influence.

Venue-related accidents

Slips, trips and falls are common at the annual company get-together, particularly when you bring into play festive decorations or unfamiliar venues. Faulty equipment like unstable chairs or malfunctioning heating appliances can also cause unexpected injuries in the venue.

Food allergies and poisoning

Undercooked food, or poorly-managed catering resulting in allergic reactions or foodborne illnesses can cause issues for your staff members, and potential liability claims.

Harassment or misconduct claims

Unprofessional behaviour amongst staff during social events can lead to complaints of harassment or discrimination, with potential legal repercussions.

Damage to property

Whether it's spilled drinks on expensive equipment, or broken furniture, property damage can add up quickly and put a real dent in festivities.

Cybersecurity risks

Sharing photos or details of the Christmas party online could inadvertently expose sensitive company information or lead to reputational damage.

Insurance policies to consider

Public liability insurance

Covers claims for third-party injury or property damage caused by the event. This type of insurance is essential if you're hosting the party at an external venue. This protects against claims made by employees injured during the party.

Event insurance

Tailored policies can cover cancellation, property damage or even adverse weather impacting the event.

Directors and Officers (D&O) insurance

D&O insurance protects senior staff from legal claims arising from allegations of negligence or misconduct.

Cyber insurance

This covers potential data breaches or reputational damage resulting from sharing event-related content online.

Tips to minimise risks

Choose the venue carefully

Conduct a thorough risk assessment of the venue, checking for hazards such as slippery floors or inadequate lighting. Ensure the venue has its own public liability insurance.

Set clear behaviour expectations

Circulate a pre-event reminder of the company’s code of conduct and the importance of respectful behaviour. Assign senior staff as designated monitors to handle any arising issues discreetly.

Limit alcohol consumption

Offer non-alcoholic alternatives and encourage moderation. Consider hiring professional bartenders trained to recognise when someone has had too much to drink.

Catering safety

Work with reputable catering providers who follow strict food safety standards. Collect everyone’s dietary information beforehand to cater to allergies and preferences.

Plan transportation

Arrange group transport options, like a minibus, or pre-book taxis to ensure employees get home safely. Avoid encouraging staff to drive if alcohol is being served.

Review your insurance policies

Check your existing policies provide adequate coverage for your event. If in doubt, speak to your insurance broker to ensure all bases are covered. Planning a Christmas office party involves more than just festive cheer. The right insurance policies and risk management strategies can help you focus on the celebrations without worrying about potential liabilities. At Ascend Broking, we specialise in tailoring insurance solutions to fit your business needs, ensuring you're covered no matter what the festive season brings. Let us help you protect your business this Christmas! Contact us today on 01245 449060 or info@ascendbroking.co.uk to review your coverage and make sure you’re prepared for a safe and happy celebration.