The World Cup is due to kick off on 11 June with one of the host nations, Mexico, meeting South Africa in the opening game. Events like the World Cup can lead to increased camaraderie and (hopefully!) national pride, but they can also lead to increased rivalry, potential conflict and an uptick in the number of alcoholic beverages bought and sold! While one would hope this would have minimal impact on employers, rivalries, hangovers and late nights due to less-than-ideal fixture times can spill over into the workplace meaning it would be wise for employers to give some thought to how they intend to handle any such issues ahead of time in order to maximise the celebrations and minimise the red cards!
Particularly in multi-cultural workplaces, there may be differences of opinion as to who should win what matches. While a certain amount of healthy competition is unlikely to cause major issues, it is important to make sure that this doesn’t spill over into aggressive or even racist behaviour. Set out expectations as to what language/behaviour is acceptable at work and make sure that staff understand that racist language or language that could be perceived as racist will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and that includes under the guise of so-called “banter” about national football teams.
Due to the time zone of the host nations (Mexico, Canada and the USA), the majority of games are scheduled to be played in the late evening and into the early morning UK time. This will avoid the need for most employers to consider whether to allow staff to watch matches during working hours or not. However, for those who operate on 24-hour schedules or whose business hours are less usual, this may be a consideration. Bear in mind, that if you allow staff to watch one nation’s matches during work time, you should allow staff supporting other countries to do the same to avoid any potential discrimination issues. Thought should also be given as to whether you expect staff who take time out to watch a game to make up that time or if you are happy with a good faith arrangement whereby staff need to ensure that they still meet all deadlines/productivity requirements rather than being required to work set additional hours. If it is more practical to allow the game to be followed on the radio, be sure that this does not negatively impact on any safety factors, such as the ability to hear warning alarms or announcements. While we are some way away from the final at present, be mindful that it is due to be played on a Sunday evening. This could result in some sore heads the next day, particularly if England (or another national team that is well supported in the workplace) makes it that far.
Although, regardless of the participants, the World Cup Final is a sporting spectacle that will attract millions of viewers, and no doubt an element of some sociable drinking and the late night that goes along with that! Employers may decide to allow a little leeway (especially if England beats the odds and makes it to the final!), but it may nevertheless be worthwhile reminding staff in advance about reporting requirements for sick days, any evidence of sickness you would normally require and details of any return-to-work process you may have which may discourage staff from overdoing it and being unable to report for work on the Monday as planned!
Sporting events like the World Cup are undoubtedly exciting and can have a positive impact on the work environment if approached and managed in the right manner. Planning ahead of time and making expectations of staff clear at the outset will hopefully ensure a successful tournament for the whole team!
