5 Questions You Should Consider on Whether You Should Allow Alcohol in Your Office

Alcohol is a very common social lubricant and a fun way to bond with co-workers. As such, it is not entirely surprising that many employers allow employees to drink at work events or even on the job.

You might think alcohol consumption in the workplace is relatively innocuous, save for a few people who get out of hand. However, there are potential downsides to allowing your employees to drink while they work.

Take a look at these five questions you should consider on whether you should allow alcohol in your office.

Who is responsible for overseeing the consumption of alcohol on-site?

It can be tempting to overlook employees drinking at company functions or after work hours. However, you must establish a clear policy about drinking and carry out those responsibilities as an employer. If you do not plan to serve employees drink during official company events, make sure your employees know the policy.

If you plan to allow them to drink, make sure they know what is expected of them before, during, and after the event. While most employees won’t cause problems at an alcohol-centered event, some might need guidance or supervision on how much to consume.

At what point does consumption turn into overconsumption?

Many companies allow their staff to drink, but that doesn’t mean they approve of employees getting drunk at company functions. You should establish clear guidelines on how much is too much before you decide whether you are comfortable with your employees drinking on the job.

Some companies choose not to serve alcohol to employees until after work hours. Other companies will put limits on the number of drinks employees are allowed to have.

What happens if a drinking employee drives home?

If you allow employees to drink on the job, they mustn’t get into vehicles and drive. While it varies per individual, alcohol can stay in your system for quite some time. If a car accident occurs, your company could face serious legal action if they knew the employee got drunk while on the job.

You should establish a policy about leaving events where alcohol has been served early, taking a designated driver, or arranging other transportation. You should also make the consequences known to your employees if they break this policy.

What happens if an employee has too much to drink and causes trouble during the event?

Depending on how much alcohol is served at events you host, employees might become intoxicated. When people become intoxicated, they tend to lower their inhibitions and might cause conflicts. This could manifest in them having heated discussions or getting into a shouting match.

However, if one of these employees becomes disruptive or violent, you could be held legally responsible. Make sure your company policy is clear about handling intoxicated employees, and always have several planned responses ready in case an incident occurs.

How will alcohol consumption affect workplace morale?

Although some people regard drinking with co-workers as a bonding experience, others feel uncomfortable when their colleagues drink around them.

If you allow employees to drink on the job, it is important that you create a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Make sure nobody’s feelings get hurt if an employee decides not to drink alcohol. Aim to keep events lighthearted and fun as opposed to stifling or dry.

You may be thinking that allowing your employees to drink at work functions or after hours is harmless fun. However, you can never be too careful when it comes to alcohol use in the workplace.

You should consider the risks that come with drinking in the office and plan accordingly. You don’t want to be in a situation where you face legal repercussions.

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