Businesses are being advised to remind staff of their company policies ahead of Christmas parties this month.
It's the first time group festive celebrations have taken place since before the pandemic.
Large-scale Christmas parties are taking place again this year, for the first time since December 2019.
Under employment law, rules around discrimination and inappropriate behaviour apply to all company-organised functions.
Partner and Head of Lewis Silkin's Dublin office, Síobra Rush, says even though Christmas parties take place outside of normal working hours company policies and employment laws still apply.
"I think when alcohol is taken, and that can happen particularly in the festive season, it is a good idea to warn employees to have a good time but it is a work related event and they need to make sure their behaviour is in line expectations and the policies.
Career Consultant Lynda Barry, says staff should make an effort to go to their office Christmas party, especially in the current remote and hybrid-working environment.
"It's a really good chance for you to reconnect with people, to maybe connect with other people in different teams and departments because maybe there are new starters there that you haven't met before.
"From my view, it's a great opportunity to meet people, old and new, and just reconnect again."
Employment Rights Advice.ie says it's a good idea to appoint someone as a 'designated survivor' at the Christmas party - who will remain sober and can deal with any crisis or dispute which may arise during the night.
