Some workplace wisdom for surviving office Melbourne Cup Day functions…from your friendly Poet Lawyerate.
The first Tuesday in November
The day that stops the nation
Every workplace takes a spell
To join the celebration
It’s not my place to be a nag
But as a lawyer it behooves
The sharing of a friendly tip
About career limiting moves
Tis’ too late to shut the gate
After the horse has bolted
So pace yourself on Cup Day
Don’t leave others revolted
Don your hat and have a punt
But drink in moderation
Cos if you horse around too much
It may cost you your vocation…
REALLY? YES REALLY!
Melbourne Cup Day functions are great fun, but it’s important to remember that WHS and workplace laws apply to workplace social events.
EMPLOYERS
Don’t wear blinkers.
WHS laws require you to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of your employees.
If you want everyone to maintain good form, have a Cup Day Policy and share it prior to Cup Day.
Choose a safe venue. An off-site venue is still “a workplace.”
Monitor alcohol consumption, have non-alcoholic drinks available and serve plenty of food.
Set definite start and finish times.
Encourage employees to harness some restraint and not party furlong (get it?) past race time.
Your duty of care may continue after the function has ended.
EMPLOYEES
The expectations on employee behaviour at a workplace function are the same as when you are “working”.
Stay on track.
Don’t take free rein.
Follow your employer’s Cup Day Policy.
No-one wants to be warned off, given a spell by HR, or be that person on the video that goes viral on the first Wednesday in November!
FINAL TIP
Have a great day and I hope you back a winner!