Don’t let your employees end up in bandages this Halloween

Dressing up and decorating the office at Halloween can be fun. However, there are a few things to consider to make sure the day doesn’t end up with a trip to casualty.

Decorations

Make sure suitable step ladders are used for putting up any decorations.  Don’t use office chairs, desks, filing cabinets or domestic grade steps.

Pumpkins with candles can be effective but do you need to introduce a naked flame into the workplace. Consider using battery powered tea lights or small torches in place of candles.

Costumes

Dressing up for work may introduce an element of fun but not all costumes are fire retardant and some can easily catch fire. Only buy a costume that is labelled “flame-retardant”.

In addition, be careful which employees are allowed to wear costumes, loose clothing on fancy dress costumes can easily become caught in moving machinery and could result in a serious accident.

Wearing a mask can hide many things. What it should not do is prevent you seeing where you are going and any traffic dangers (Try Face Paint).

Ensure that any costumes worn do not affect the safe use of any Personal Protective Equipment such as Eye Protection Ear Defenders etc.

Don’t forget footwear – stiletto heels may finish off the costume but if the employee needs to be on their feet all day then are they really suitable?

Treats

If you are planning a baking event be aware of peoples allergies, ensure that you make staff aware of any potential allergens which may be in food brought into the office. There are further deatils on our HR Hub, which are customers have access to.

A little bit of forethought and planning can result in an amazing office atmosphere on Halloween.  Make sure the only blood you see this Halloween is fake blood.

If you need help or advice on this topic, we can help. have a look at our employers resources or book a consultation.