How to host a safe and enjoyable
holiday office party
Many people look forward to annual celebrations with coworkers during the holiday season . The holiday office party is customary at many businesses , but those traditions were largely shelved in 2020 .
COVID-19 had a direct impact on office parties , with the majority of employers opting out due to community-wide gathering restrictions . This holiday season , thanks to the successful rollout of vaccinations for people age 12 and up , social gatherings are once again increasing in frequency . However , that doesn ’ t mean caution should be thrown to the wind . Safety should be priority number one as businesses return to the tradition of hosting office parties this holiday season .
Take the party outside
Weather varies across the country during the holiday season . But if concerns of congregating in tight spaces still prevail , especially with new variants of COVID-19 driving up infection rates , it may be safer to socialize outdoors .
Heaters and fire pits can warm up spaces if the weather is chilly .
Opt for individually plated or prepackaged foods
Prevent the spread of germs and safely address the myriad food allergies employees may have by serving individually packaged meals . Similarly , suggest that well-meaning employees refrain from annual Christmas cookie or fudge exchanges this year .
Limit alcohol
Set parameters for how much alcohol is served , perhaps setting a drink limit for each employee . Alcohol can loosen inhibitions , which may make people engage in risky behaviors that can make them vulnerable to the virus and other threats to their health .
Provide transportation options
If the office party will include alcoholic beverages , develop a plan for getting attendees home safely afterwards . This may include hiring a ride-sharing or cab company , or financing rides in a town car . In addition , ensure employees who do not feel comfortable leaving a venue alone at night can get home safely . Pair up employees who can carpool together . Allow employees to expense ride services .
Carefully consider location Think about how location may play into overall safety risk . If there are plenty of bars or clubs nearby , then employees may indulge before or after the company party and their employer could be held responsible for their actions . Employers also must be cognizant of the neighborhood in which the event is held . Does it have a high crime rate ? Is it far from public transportation ? Is it desolate after certain times ? Let safety be a driving force when choosing a location for the party .
Holiday office parties are returning to holiday season social schedules , and there are many ways to make them safe and enjoyable .
36 • SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky november 2022