Take steps to ensure acceptable conduct at work-related social events
Key points
Employers should be aware that they can be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employees at office parties and other work-related social events, if those actions are deemed to have been committed in the course of employment. The most likely claims to arise are harassment claims.
An employer will have a defence to such a claim if it can show that it took such steps as were reasonably practicable to prevent the employee doing the act. Having a policy providing clear written guidelines on required standards of behaviour will assist with any reasonable steps defence.
The materials and information included in the XpertHR service are provided for reference purposes only. They are not intended either as a substitute for professional advice or judgment or to provide legal or other advice with respect to particular circumstances. Use of the service is subject to our terms and conditions.