The holiday office party is something that many employees look forward to at the end of the year. However, some groups look forward to the event a little too much, and it tends to become a bit rowdy. If you decide to throw an office holiday party for your team, you may be wondering what would happen if there’s an accident at the celebration and if your employee will be entitled to workers’ compensation.

Your Guide to Work Injuries at the Office Holiday Party

What Happens If Someone Is Hurt?

Immediately following the accident, you should get your employee to a safe place to avoid any further risk of injury. Get a clear picture of the situation so that you know exactly what happened and what caused the incident. If the injuries are mild, you may only need basic first aid supplies to treat your employee. If they’re more serious, enlist the help of emergency medical services to ensure your workers get the treatment they need.

After the injuries are addressed, jot down notes on the specifics of the accident and take photos of the scene. Document every injury in case your employee decides to file a workers’ compensation claim.

What Do I Do Next?

If your employee files a claim, it’s in your best interest to be helpful and cooperative. Work with your employee, your insurance provider, and any other interested parties. If the workers’ compensation claim becomes a lawsuit, you should still try to maintain open communication. You should also hire an attorney skilled in handling cases based on work injuries.

How Can I Protect the Company?

Make your business’s holiday celebration less of a liability by holding it outside of work hours and at a third-party venue. Keep partying and working separate, and invite your employees’ family members to discourage the event from becoming an extension of the workday. Make it clear that attendance isn’t mandatory, and avoid serving alcohol. You may even want to choose an alternative holiday celebration, like an informal after-work happy hour or a half-day, to allow your employees to go home early and spend time with their families.

If you need legal assistance handling a workers’ compensation claim or lawsuit, contact the Charles H. Brower Law Corporation in Honolulu, HI. Attorney Brower has extensive experience in helping employers navigate work injury cases. He and his team will take the time to review your case, ensuring you get the attention and counsel you need. Learn more about their approach to worker’s compensation cases online, or call (808) 526-2688 to schedule a consultation.