Appreciating Your Team Safely: Managing Liability for Employee Appreciation Day

This Friday, March 6, 2026, is Employee Appreciation Day. After the long winter months, showing your team that you value their hard work is essential for retention and morale. Whether you are hosting a catered lunch, an off-site bowling trip, or an awards ceremony, these events carry a specific set of Business Insurance considerations.

1. Off-Site Liability

If you are taking the team to an off-site location (like an escape room or a park), your General Liability policy typically follows the business. However, you should verify if the venue has its own insurance. If an employee is injured during a “work-sponsored” recreational activity, it often falls under Workers’ Compensation, even if it happens away from the office.

2. The Gifting “Audit”

If you are giving out high-value gifts (electronics or equipment) as part of your appreciation, remember that these items should be tracked for BPP (Business Personal Property) if they remain in the office, or noted if they are being sent home with employees.

3. Food Safety

Hosting a catered lunch? Ensure you are using a licensed and insured catering company. This shifts the “Product Liability” risk to the vendor if a group of employees becomes ill from the meal.

A little appreciation goes a long way, and a little insurance preparation ensures that your “Thank You” doesn’t turn into a “Claim Filed.”