WORKERS gearing up for their annual Christmas parties were today warned that their antics could end in more than red faces.

And Blackburn employment law specialist Wendy Backhouse is urging companies to take sensible steps to ensure celebrations don't get out hand. She has warned that firms could be liable for the actions of their employees, even if the party takes place outside working hours and away from the office.

Every year, thousands of workers across Lancashire join in the festive fun determined to have a good time. However, Wendy says reports of bad behaviour are increasing and she has some handy hints for this Christmas.

"Be wary of any drink-induced 'liaisons' between staff or overt sexual behaviour towards others," said Wendy, head of employment law at leading Blackburn commercial law firm, Taylors.

"It may seem a good idea at the time, but, in the cold light of the next working day, regretful."

Wendy said employers should issue a warning to staff that any extreme behaviour would not be tolerated and result in disciplinary action. The higher up the managerial ladder, the more serious the offending behaviour would be judged.

"The more senior an employee, the more they will be expected to appreciate the consequences of their actions," said Wendy.

Drugs for most people are definitely out, but what happens if one of your managers decides to join the rank and file with a 'smoke'?

"In a case concerning a major DIY chain, a senior manager imbibed freely on some cannabis being passed around," said Wendy.

"Following a complaint from an employee, he was summarily dismissed for gross misconduct, which was upheld to be fair."

The advice was backed by fellow employment lawyer Rachel Power. She said: "Employers are likely to be liable for any acts of sexual harassment, whether perpetrated by fellow employees or guests.

"It is no longer acceptable for employers to permit employees to tell lewd jokes or behave lecherously towards their colleagues".