For those running hospitality venues, December is both the busiest and most demanding time of year. Christmas party nights, corporate gatherings, and family celebrations bring packed houses, long shifts, and plenty of cheer. But with the surge in activity comes increased risk. As operators, the responsibility is clear: keep staff and guests safe while delivering a seamless festive experience.
Managing Staff Safety
- Shift planning: Long hours are inevitable, but smart rota management reduces fatigue. Build in breaks and avoid back-to-back late finishes followed by early starts. Tired staff are more likely to make mistakes.
- Floor awareness: With venues at capacity, staff must navigate crowded spaces carrying trays, glasses, and equipment. Regular checks for spills, broken glass, or blocked walkways are essential.
- Alcohol-related behaviour: Party nights often mean guests drinking heavily. Staff should know how to spot early signs of disorderly conduct and when to escalate to security should it become necessary.
- Clear communication: Daily briefings keep everyone aligned on guest numbers, event timings, and potential risks. A well-informed team is a safer team.
Keeping Guests Safe
- Capacity control: Stick to legal safe limits and ensure exits remain clear. Overcrowding is one of the biggest risks during festive events.
- Responsible service: Train staff to refuse service when guests have had enough. It protects the individual and prevents wider disruption.
- Slip prevention: Drinks get spilled, dance floors get wet. Regular inspections and quick clean-ups reduce the chance of falls.
- Fire safety: Decorations, fairy lights, and candles add atmosphere but must be checked for compliance. Fire exits should never be obstructed.
- Safe departures: Encourage guests to pre-book taxis or use public transport. Visible signage with local travel options helps reduce unsafe journeys home.
Practical Steps for Incident-Free Operations
- Position security staff where they are most needed – entrances, exits, and busy bar areas.
- Keep first aid kits stocked and ensure staff know who is trained to use them.
- Run through emergency procedures before the season begins so all staff are confident in what to do.
- Document incidents promptly and review them to improve processes as the season progresses.
The Goal: A Safe, Successful Festive Season
For operators, the festive period can make or break reputations. Guests remember not only the atmosphere and service but also how safe and well-managed the venue felt. By staying proactive, enforcing clear standards, and supporting our teams, we can get through Christmas accident and incident free – and set the stage for a strong start to the new year.