Tribunal Awards set to increase from February 2012

Just as everyone starts to enjoy some festive cheer, details of how Tribunal awards are going to increase are released.

As from 1st February 2012, new limits for compensation will come into force.

The main changes that employers need to be aware of if that for anyone making a claim in the Tribunal , the maximum rates that they will be able to recover will increase. Largely the increases are in line with the Retail Price Index but even so, any claims that need to be met are going to become more expensive.

The maximum amount that can be awarded for a week s pay will increase from £400 per week to £430 per week, in turn meaning that the maximum compensatory award that the Tribunal will be able to make will increase by £3,900 to £72,300.

Time to cancel Christmas

Cancelling the Christmas party this year might not just save you money in these tight economic times but it may also save you ending up in the Employment Tribunal.

If you are going to celebrat Christmas still and you will provide drinks at the office party, limit the number of free drinks and make sure there are plenty of non alcoholic choices available. This will avoid any issues of religious discrimination. Be prepared to send an employee home if their conduct becomes inappropriate.

Remember that employers can be held responsible for employee’s actions during and after the Christmas party. If your employees have been drinking make sure that they don’t drive home, especially in the Company vehcile, and give some thought to providing pre-arranged transport. It doesn’t have to be at your cost but paying for a cab or mini bus could save you a lot in the long run.

Driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs in the course of employment can have serious consequences for an employer at Christmas, or any other time. If your employee causes a death as a result of driving under the influence you as the employer can be held liable and the Courts have the power to order huge fines that could bankrupt a small company. Even worse, you could be faced with a prison sentence for corporate manslaughter.

If you are planning on decking the halls of the office with boughs of holly you must also be aware of health and safety issues. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents last year reported that over 1,000 people were injured by unsecured Christmas trees. If you are planning on party balloons, just be aware that over 3.6million people have a latex allergy.

Needless to say, it is essential to make sure that you have an up to date policy and a no-nonsense approach to disciplining any employee found to have acted untowardly at any Christams party or indeed even in the office and it is essential those who are found to be driving whilst under the influence are dealt with swiftly and fairly. Getting this right isn’t just for Christmas.