Checking it Twice: A List of 12 Legal Considerations for the Holidays

Health and Safety at Company Events

The definition of “workplace” under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (“OHSA”) is broad. Thus, an employer’s obligations under the OHSA apply to company-sponsored social functions, such as a holiday party.

Employers should take reasonable steps to ensure worker safety at off-site company events such as holiday parties. Specific examples of such steps are outlined further, below.

Responsible Alcohol Use

Courts have held employers liable for an...