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The festive season is upon us, and for many businesses, that means it’s time for the annual Christmas Party.
According to EventBrite, more than a third of Australian employees attend a Christmas party. The most popular gathering is a lunch, next is a sit-down dinner, cocktail party or taking part in an activity or experiential event. There are no clear figures yet on the popularity of hybrid or virtual Christmas parties, but they could be an option.
On average, Australian employers spend just shy of $10,000 on their work Christmas parties, but it could cost your business a lot more if there are liability claims.
Preparation and the right insurance can help protect your business from risk exposures, ranging from minor mishaps to major claims. This article covers the major risks and what you can do to minimise them – it’s not too
Slips, falls, or damage to property can flip a festive celebration into a legal concern.
For example, a spilt drink could lead to a guest injuring themselves or damaging the venue’s property. In more serious cases, intoxication-related accidents or allegations of harassment could result in costly claims against your business.
Below, we’ll detail other specific risks and how particular insurance policies can come into play.
But first, here are those all-important tips!
Consider these proactive steps to reduce risks and keep your event safe and enjoyable:
And, be sure to review your insurance policies beforehand. As your broker or adviser, we can review your existing liability coverage to ensure it includes protection for seasonal events like Christmas parties.
Evaluate your Management Liability insurance to ensure it includes critical covers such as Workplace Health and Safety Costs, Employment Practices Liability, Third-Party Discrimination or Sexual Harassment Coverage, and Employee Theft and Third-Party Crime Coverage. These provisions can safeguard your business against potential losses and expenses stemming from employee complaints or incidents related to workplace events.
Because Christmas parties are an extension of the workplace, be mindful that company policies on harassment and discrimination still apply.
At times, though, inappropriate behaviour can occur at social events. Management Liability coverage can protect your business from claims of misconduct, including harassment or discrimination, that results from incidents at the event.
If an employee is injured at your Christmas party, workers’ compensation could apply, particularly if their attendance was compulsory. Ensure you check your state or territory’s workplace health and safety laws.
Injuries sustained during work-related events, even social ones, could trigger your workers’ compensation policy.
We can help you review your workers’ compensation coverage before your party to check it addresses potential risks.
Christmas is a time for celebration, not stress. Ensuring your holiday gifts are covered by insurance means you can focus on the joy of giving without worrying about the unexpected. Reach out to us to review your policy and make sure your festive season goes off without a hitch.
As the holiday cheer unfolds, let your biggest concern be finding the perfect gift—not what happens if it goes missing. As your broker or adviser, we and our team wish you a safe, joyful festive season filled with love, laughter, and well-protected presents.
If your party is being held at a third-party venue, verifying their insurance is crucial. Many venues will include contract clauses making your business responsible for damages or incidents that occur during the event.
Peruse contracts with venues or event planners to clarify liability responsibilities before signing.
So, once you’ve worked through those risk minimisation tips and checked with us to review your policy coverage, you’re set for a wonderful festive season!
Article Supplied by OneAffiniti
Photo by Vasyl Dolmatov on Unsplash