Key Points
- Hidden hazards emerge when workplaces decorate for Halloween, as seasonal decor and altered lighting introduce risks outside normal safety controls
- Costumes can compromise visibility and mobility, making emergency response difficult
- Flammable materials and open flames create major fire risks, with synthetic fabrics igniting rapidly
- Fog machines and themed chemicals require COSHH compliance documentation
- Clear accountability during setup and cleanup prevents festive events from becoming dangerous
Halloween Scares Lurking in Workplaces
Small environmental changes - such as a cape near a candle or fog machine in a tight corridor - create genuine risks. Below are five primary hazards that can turn workplace celebrations into safety incidents.
Halloween Scare 1: Decorations That Turn Into Fire Hazards
Fake cobwebs and similar decor are highly flammable, especially near warm equipment or electrical sources. Candles, lanterns, and plug-in lighting amplify fire risk. Fires spread rapidly in temporary, unassessed displays.
Why This Gets Overlooked
Decorations are perceived as harmless fun rather than fire-safety hazards.
Halloween Scare 2: Costumes That Limit Vision and Mobility
Masks create tunnel vision. Floor-length outfits snag and cause trips. Some costumes prevent proper PPE wear.
Why This Gets Overlooked
Safety rarely factors into costume selection.
Halloween Scare 3: Seasonal Chemicals Forgotten in COSHH Files
Fog machines, theatrical smoke, fake blood, UV paints, and certain glues introduce chemical hazards requiring COSHH assessment and control, even for one-night use. Inadequate ventilation triggers asthma and respiratory reactions.
Why This Gets Overlooked
Temporary products feel too minor to document formally.
Halloween Scare 4: Dim Lighting That Hides Hazards
Darkened rooms mask hazards. Masks and flashing lights further impair hazard detection.
Why This Gets Overlooked
Creating atmosphere takes priority over safety visibility.
Halloween Scare 5: Unclear Roles When Something Goes Wrong
When celebrations disrupt routine, accountability lapses. Staff assume others handled checks. Delayed responses amplify incident severity.
Why This Gets Overlooked
Event organization overshadows safety responsibility assignment.
No Tricks, Just Safe Treats: A Halloween Workplace Safety Checklist
Before the Celebration Begins
- Keep all decorations away from heaters, electrics, and open flames
- Ensure pathways, stairs, and fire exits remain clear of props and cables
- Confirm costumes are flame-resistant and allow safe movement
- Ensure masks maintain clear vision, or substitute face paint
- Double-check PPE compatibility with costumes
- Add fog fluids, UV paints, sprays, or adhesives to COSHH documentation
- Assign someone responsible for safety checks and fire marshaling
During Festivities
- Avoid overcrowded or poorly lit shortcuts; use marked crossings
- Prevent tripping by fixing loose costume pieces
- Stay cautious around smoke machines and dark corridors; ensure ventilation
- Replace PPE immediately after photos
- Confirm emergency exits remain unobstructed as decorations shift
After the Fun
- Properly store or dispose of event chemicals
- Record observations, near-misses, and improvement needs
- Switch off all electrics and extinguish flame sources before leaving
Real Hazards on Halloween
Fire Service Warning
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service notes that "plastic capes or bin-liners, which are often used as costumes, can engulf the wearer in flames in as little as nine seconds once ignited."
Lesson: Verify costume flammability, avoid open flames near decorations, and treat every prop as a potential risk.
How Sevron Keeps Halloween (and Every Day) Safe and Compliant
Every workplace change affects existing controls. Sevron's Safety365 system documents temporary hazards properly without slowing celebrations.
Sevron's Accelerated Compliance Framework Provides
- Certified: COSHH and SDS library stays accurate and automatically updated
- Competent: Staff receive guidance for seasonal safety changes
- Compliant: All updates are logged and audit-ready
Keep the fear in the costumes, not in your safety records.
When you're ready to ensure your workplace celebrations stay safe and compliant, schedule a consultation or book a demo for support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Halloween workplace fire safety tips for office celebrations?
Keep decorations away from heat sources and electrical equipment. Designate a responsible person to check lighting and cables for overheating throughout the event. Ensure emergency exits and fire extinguishers remain fully accessible and visible.
How can we reduce chemical exposure from fog machines and Halloween sprays?
Follow manufacturer instructions and keep fog machines out of confined spaces. Include all chemical products in COSHH assessments with accessible safety data. Provide alternative areas away from fog effects for staff with asthma or breathing sensitivities.
What costume safety rules should workplaces set?
Avoid trailing fabrics and sharp accessories. Ensure PPE remains usable and unobstructed. For staff around flames or chemicals, require flame-retardant, properly fitted costumes.
How do businesses update COSHH requirements for Halloween decorations and cleaning products?
Any new substance introduced must be logged in COSHH inventory and reviewed for hazards. Even short-term items may require additional PPE or ventilation controls. Safety Data Sheets must be accessible, and supervisors must brief teams on new risks before celebrations.
How can workplaces keep exits and walkways safe during Halloween parties?
Emergency signage and exit doors cannot be blocked by decorations. Secure cables from lights or fog machines to prevent trips. Avoid placing decorations in stairways and near high-traffic areas. Assign monitoring to maintain hazard-free environments throughout the event.
Looking for help managing workplace safety during seasonal events? Discover how Sevron can help you maintain COSHH compliance year-round, including during workplace celebrations.
Customer Support Specialist
Beth-Louise has been supporting Sevron customers since 2016, making her one of the most experienced members of the team. She handles day-to-day customer queries via Intercom, supports the Rapid Transfer Service, and delivers Done For You services to help clients get set up quickly. Beth's deep knowledge of the Safety365 platform makes her the go-to person for practical tips and troubleshooting.
