When one becomes two, becomes ten

A recent workplace poll conducted by the Australian Drug Foundation (ADF) has prompted a timely reminder about employer responsibilities with respect to the service of alcohol at organised functions.

The study, carried out in Victoria, discovered that one in five workers has experienced unwanted or inappropriate behaviour at an organised work function where the other person had been drinking alcohol. It also found that three in 100 workers suffered an injury due to the amount of alcohol consumed.

The ADF warns against letting drinking snowball at Christmas and end-of-year parties and the head of workplace services, Phillip Collins, says these results should raise a red flag for business - especially big business.

“For organisations with a couple of hundred staff, these statistics warn us that if a Responsible Service of Alcohol policy is not adhered to, you could have a dozen injuries and potential liability claims,” said Collins.

“It’s not just about protecting the safety of your employees but ensuring the reputation of your business remains intact. Better still, work functions are a good opportunity, if a strong alcohol service policy is in place, for business to promote the company’s image of being a responsible employer and [provider of a] safe, healthy workplace.

“It’s important companies plan for and deliver a function which ensures all staff members enjoy an incident-free night and get home safely.”

The Australian Drug Foundation strongly recommends workplaces follow some simple rules when it comes to making sure staff stay safe while enjoying a fun night.

1. Serve ‘mocktails’ (non-alcoholic drinks) at the start of the party. It’s a lot of fun and gives staff choices.
2. Increase the amount of non-alcoholic drinks available.
3. Consider limiting drinks to beer and wine and avoid high alcohol-content drinks.
4. Promote your organisation’s Code of Conduct before the event so everyone knows what’s expected of them.
5. Appoint someone to be responsible for overseeing that the festivities run smoothly and to be the point of call should any problems arise on the day. Ensure this person is not drinking.
6. Ensure your employees are being served by Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) trained bar staff.
7. Avoid table service and ‘top-ups’ as it makes it harder for employees to keep track of how many drinks they’ve had.
8. Stop service of alcohol during formalities and speeches. This will help reduce the chance of high levels of intoxication.
9. Provide plenty of free water.
10. Promote your event as a fun, activity-filled celebration where alcohol is not the focus.