Getting too drunk at your work Christmas party could get you fired

As the countdown to the big day creeps ever closer, we are officially in the midst of work Christmas party season.

This means getting drunk with people you may or may not actually like, and there’s a lot of scope for this night to end badly for you.

Even though the booze is free-flowing at these events and everyone’s having a laugh, you will still be held accountable for your actions if you take things too far – and this could even result in you getting fired.

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According to an expert, while at your work Christmas party you’re still technically on ‘company time’.

Priya Cunningham, a specialist employment lawyer at Watermans Solicitors, told the Daily Record: “The employer needs to bear in mind reputational damage to their business when considering an employee’s conduct on a night out.”

She continued: “Bosses are also vicariously liable for their employees’ actions. If an employee assaults someone on a night out, leaving them with a life changing injury – such as brain damage – the employer may also be liable for their actions. It’s important to get advice from our employment law specialist if you’re facing the sack after your Christmas work do.”

You’re fine to have a drink – obviously – but if you take things too far and end up assaulting someone, taking drugs or committing another crime there’s a high chance you’ll wake up with a P45 to go with your hangover.

Serious health and safety violations, like leaving the office party pissed and forgetting to lock up, for example, could also result in disciplinary action or dismissal.

And if you come into work the next day still steaming, there’s a chance you’ll face disciplinary or dismissal – especially if you’re operating machinery or driving.

So have a few drinks and a good time by all means, just don’t take things too far…