Share

The Joke’s on You!

Every office has a joker and it has been reported that one in five workers expect to be the victim of an April Fool’s prank in the work place.

Amongst the top office pranks are gluing pen lids on, gluing mugs to desks, swapping desk drawers, unplugging keyboards and hoax flirty emails.

Although April Fool’s day is ideally for light hearted humour, it is important for employers to remember not to let office pranks go too far as this could involve breach of office procedures. Procedures at risk of being breached are office codes of conduct, bully and harassment procedures and grievance policies.

Leading Aberdeen-based employment law, HR and health & safety firm, Empire, are keen to raise awareness that although an April Fool’s prank can be funny at the time, it is vital for employers to know when to draw the line with unacceptable behaviour.

CEO of Empire, Steve Cook, said: “It’s very well having a bit of humour in the office and as an employer it is inevitable that a certain amount of jokes will be played on April Fool’s day. However it is important to keep in mind that not all employees enjoy being the victim of a joke. Employers must ensure that a line must be drawn if another employee becomes upset or if the joke is costing the company time and money.”

It could be argued that humour in the office can help increase morale, creativity and team work, so maybe some light hearted pranks in the office could be good for the workforce, but remember it is easy for pranks to be misinterpreted and that could lead to disciplinary actions, so don’t let the joke be on you and your business this April Fool’s.

To find out more about Empire and what they could offer your business call a member of the advice line team on 01224 701383 or visit www.empirehr.com for free downloads and to see Empire’s forthcoming events.