Corporate Christmas Parties
And Workplace Harassment In Alberta

An employer is generally responsible for any form of employee harassment that occurs at the workplace, during work hours and social events. This is especially important during annual events such as the company Christmas party where there may be the presence of alcohol. As an employer in Alberta, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of harassment that may occur amongst your staff and management.

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of Workplace Harassment

• Develop and communicate a harassment policy that clearly states that the policy extends to employer-hosted social events.
• Ensure that the policy includes an obligation to bring forward knowledge of conduct that is contrary to the policy and clearly sets out the process for bringing a complaint.
• Managers, in particular, should be reminded of company policy and expectations. Managers must understand the expectation for them to set an example of professionalism at such events.
• As part of their harassment training, managers should be given real-life examples of sexual harassment that include holiday party scenarios.
• Written invitations or notices about social events may include a reminder that the usual guidelines for conduct apply.
• Inviting spouses and significant others to corporate events can greatly reduce the incidence of harassment or offensive behaviour.

Take steps to limit the consumption of alcohol at company parties

• Provide non-alcoholic drink options.
• Provide food to balance alcohol consumption.
• Use certified or experienced bartenders who are independently insured.
• Limit the amount of alcohol that is available. Many party organizers use drink tickets as a means for regulating a “reasonable” number of drinks per person.
• Hold the party offsite.
• Appoint managers to casually monitor guests’ alcohol intake.
• Stop serving alcohol one hour before the end of the party.
• If an open bar is provided, limit the time that the bar is “open.”
• Avoid drinking with employees at other sites once the party has ended.

Contact Our Wrongful Dismissal Lawyers In Edmonton

If you feel that you have been harassed at your workplace by other staff or management, during work hours or a corporate event, you may have a case. Our employment lawyers will provide you with the counsel you need to take steps toward maximum and fair compensation. Employees in Alberta have rights. Let us defend yours. Call us today at 1-780-666-8161.