Hosting a Holiday Party? What You Should Know 

Hosting a holiday party provides an opportunity to unite employees for celebration and socialization. However, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure your event runs smoothly and safely.

Safety Considerations

You may encounter several risks when hosting a holiday party, including the following:

• Unsafe venue—Decorations and crowded spaces can lead to trips, slips and falls, which may result in liability claims. Conduct a pre-party safety check to inspect the venue for potential risks, such as blocked exits or trip hazards, and have an incident response plan to address issues proactively.

• Food safety concerns—Improper food handling, preparation or storage can result in food-borne illnesses for attendees. Ensure that food is safe to consume to minimize workers’ compensation claims. If using a caterer, check their liability insurance before engaging their services.

• Alcohol-related issues—Alcohol consumption can lead to inappropriate behavior, altercations and impaired judgment. Party hosts can be held liable if they serve alcohol to individuals who become involved in an incident after leaving. To mitigate this risk, consider hiring professional bartenders trained to recognize signs of intoxication. Also offer non-alcoholic beverages and consider transportation to help party attendees get home safely.

Insurance Considerations

To ensure you can enjoy your hosting duties with peace of mind, consider the importance of the following insurance coverages:

• General liability insurance may offer coverage against claims of personal injury or property damage (e.g., a guest slips on a wet floor or accidentally damages property).

• Liquor liability insurance may provide financial protection from claims that arise due to alcohol-related incidents, such as injuries caused by intoxicated guests or property damage.

• Employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) may financially safeguard you from claims of harassment, discrimination and other employment-related issues arising from holiday events.

Business Insurance in Medford, OR

Reviewing the risks posed by holiday parties and acquiring robust insurance coverage can allow you and your guests to enjoy the holiday celebrations with valuable peace of mind. Contact AIC Insurance Agency - Medford today to review your coverage.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.