Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Alcohol at Social Functions

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With the Christmas event season upon us, we’d like to take this opportunity to remind you that employers need to be committed to the responsible serving and use of alcohol at workplace functions. This commitment is founded on the safety needs of individuals attending the function and the general public.


3 Steps to a Safer Christmas Event Season:


Step 1 – REVIEW YOUR POLICY

If you have not already, carefully read and review your policy as this is the document that is designed to protect your organisation.

Step 2 – BE AWARE OF ANY EVENTS BEING ORGANISED

This does not mean you have to fund the event but be aware of what is happening so you can place some safety controls at the early stages, rather than being in a position of reacting to situations that have become out of your control.

Step 3 – APPOINT A NOMINATED PERSON


It is important to have a nominated person, agreed upon by both management and workers, who will have the responsibility of overseeing any function where alcohol is served. That person will be responsible to brief those attending the function, staff members, caterers and those responsible for logistics at hotels, conference centres etc., about the company policy. This is best served in writing prior to functions if possible.

Drink
Guidelines to assist in the planning and hosting of your function when alcoholic beverages are served:


1. Alcohol is not essential to any function.
2. The use of alcohol is a personal choice. No one should feel pressured to either drink or not to drink, certainly they must not be made to feel uneasy or embarrassed because of their choice.
3. The organisation Drug & Alcohol Program policy shall be observed at all times, i.e. no return to work if dangerously affected by alcohol or other drugs.
4. Those that intend to consume alcohol be encouraged to use public transport or have a designated driver for the event.
5. The person responsible for organising any event where alcoholic beverages are served is accountable for ensuring that alcohol is served in a manner, which accounts for its potential to affect both health and safety.

a. An adequate variety and supply of non-alcoholic beverages shall always be visibly available. They should be presented in as appealing a manner as beverages containing alcohol.
Drug-Safe Workplaces – SEQ and Northern Rivers NSW – PH: 1300 546 105
b. Food such as non-salty snacks and hors d'oeuvres shall be provided with alcoholic beverages.
c. Bartenders or those responsible for mixing and serving drinks shall be instructed to use moderate to light amounts of liquor. Bartender must adhere to strict serving guidelines;

i. measure correct amounts of liquor in drinks, no doubles
ii. do not serve individuals who appear to be either intoxicated or impaired
iii. do not serve minors
iv. offer non-alcoholic beverages

d. No contract shall be made with a caterer that would require the supply of a minimum amount of liquor.
e. The Company shall specify how long liquor will be served and what time the function will cease. The Bar should close promptly at the end of the specified period.
f. Permit individuals either to accept or decline an alcoholic beverage. Avoid assumptions about what people want to drink at meals.
g. Where wine is served it shall be as a complement to the meal and served in moderation. They should also be instructed to only refill wine glasses once empty and with the authorisation of the person who is consuming the wine. Non-alcoholic choices should be offered (i.e. wine not automatically provided).
h. The Company shall assume responsibility for the function and take steps to see that these guidelines are observed.
i. The bar shall be closed at least an hour before the end of the event and non-alcoholic beverages, i.e. coffee, tea, soft drinks and dessert shall be available at that time. Efforts will be made to provide alternative attractive activities to drinking by providing an attractive environment, which is conducive to talking, relaxing and socialising.
j. If guests are charged a fee, the price of admission and food shall be separated from the cost of drinks. The Company should not force non-drinkers to share the cost of alcoholic beverages.


6. If anyone is aware that a guest has had too much to drink, he/she should contact the nominated person responsible for overseeing the function. The nominated person should attempt to provide supervised transportation home for that person. If in doubt about a guest's condition the person will be discouraged from driving. If the nominated person is not available, then individuals should attempt to provide supervised transportation.
7. Professional responsible behaviour and good judgement is expected when representatives of the Company are present at functions sponsored by another organisation where alcohol is available.
8. Any after work party will not be endorsed by the organisation.


This material is of a general nature and does not constitute a formal policy and does not take into consideration the individual requirements of a business or their regulated requirements under WHS.

If your company and/or Consultative Committee would like assistance or a presentation in respect of having a compliant policy, Drug and Alcohol Program or other related matters, please contact Rob Bruhl or Andy Truscott from Drug-Safe Workplaces 1300 546 105.

CHristmasWishing you and your Staff a very happy and safe Christmas Season.


Andy Truscott & Rob Bruhl

 

Drug Safe Workplaces

Related content: Drug and alcohol policy in the workplace 

 

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