Some offices encourage staffers to bring in their children for all or part of the day; others allow workers to dress up in costume if they choose; and some departments hold Halloween parties for their teams, with or without children present, either during the workday or after hours.
It's an opportunity to let the workforce have a little good, clean fun – provided that's all it is. Like any office-related function, if alcohol is part of the mix, the potential for inappropriate behavior is significantly higher. With Halloween fast approaching at the end of next week, this week might be a good time for HR managers to review your company's (presumed) zero-tolerance policy for words, actions or appearances that could be deemed offensive or discriminatory.
As an example, someone dressed in a protective, anti-Ebola "haz-mat" suit might exacerbate fears about the spread of the virus. Above all, you want to be sure no one puts the firm's reputation – or legal liability – on the line.