Safety Tips for Planning your Christmas Function

101857082

Planning a safe, successful office party

Parties at the office mean lots of fun with all the right ingredients – food, music, drinks and a celebratory mood. However it is important to also think about road safety when planning your annual party.

Some employees or guests may be tempted to drive home even though they’ve been drinking alcohol. Ignoring that possibility is a recipe for disaster –drink driving is still a major road safety issue.

Remember that pedestrians are also at risk. Drinking can affect their judgement, particularly when crossing a road. In fact, almost one-third of pedestrians killed on our roads have been drinking.

Party planning tips

  • Ask guests to plan well in advance how they will travel to and from the party.
  • Check the availability of late night trains, buses and ferries and include timetable information with the invitations.
  • Forward the Transport Info link to all staff – www.131500.com.au
  • Ask for volunteers (who won’t be drinking on the night) to do the driving.
  • Book taxis or a minibus for staff.
  • Arrange accommodation nearby so staff can stay overnight.

Many businesses have OH&S policies that cover functions and this is a good time to circulate drink driving/walking messages to remind staff of their responsibilities.

Catering suggestions

Be sure to stock-up on alternatives to full-strength alcohol – light beer and wine. Remember that pre-mixed brands (ready-to-drink or alcopops) often have a high alcoholic content, so leave them off the menu or limit availability. Without being too heavy-handed, consider discouraging drinking games, heavy liquor and shots.

Non-alcoholic beverages, such as soft drinks, juices, mineral water and ‘mocktails’ (alcohol-free cocktails) should also be on hand.

Serving hearty food that is rich in starch and protein slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream. Suggestions include lamb kebabs, honey soy chicken wings, spinach triangles and quiche.

Partygoing tips

Right – the organising is done and now it is party time! Pass these tips onto your guests to help them get home again safely:

  • Arrange to walk home with a sober friend and take extra care crossing streets.
  • Wear bright, easy-to-see clothes at night and/or carry a light coloured bag so you are more visible to drivers.
  • Stay overnight in the city if you have drunk too much.

Cyclists should keep in mind that penalties apply for negligent and drink riding. Check the RTA Handbook for bicycle riders for details.

More information

Visit the Hassle Free Nights website for more handy information.

Top