April fools not so funny for employers, as 7 in 10 employers consider banning April fool pranks

- 76% of employers are banning April Fools jokes in fear of litigation.
- 42% of employers have had complaints made against April Fools Day pranks in the past

76% of employers will be banning April Fools jokes this year according to a telephone poll to 871 employers this week by employment law firm Peninsula. Not surprising as 42% of employers have already had complaints made from disgruntled employees regarding April Fools Day pranks.

David Price, Head of Employee Relations at Peninsula today said; ìPractical jokes this April 1st may seem funny at first but the chances are, as an employer, you wonít be laughing as victimised workers can take you to employment tribunal. Indirect pranks made by workers can lead to harassment claims made by disgruntled employees, so I am urging employers to be extra careful. Any workers who feel so strongly may have reason to take their complaint to court. Even the pranks which seem innocent can result in harassment claims.î

ìEmployers need to discourage workers against practical jokes. Especially if it has anything to do with race, sex or disability. What seems an innocent joke may be taken completely out of context or be seen as offensive by the employee concerned. If this is the case the employee can then make a complaint and if the employer doesnít take their complaint seriously then they could end up at employment tribunal.î

Price concludes; ìThe employer needs to make it clear that pranks will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will be taken against workers who cause offence. Ensure that you have equal opportunities policy in place and that it is communicated to all staff. Those who feel victimised should be able to approach you, and it is important that you take the complaint seriously and taking action where appropriate. It is not like in the past where practical jokes were common. Increased employee and culture changes in the workplace make it easier for disgruntled workers to make a claim. Pranks which cause offence could open the door to the expense of the employer, then who will be laughing when the case goes to court?î

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