I just started working for a small compnay. I just found out that two of the managers consume alcohol in the office after most of us have gone home. Apparently the VP was aware of this and for some a long time did not say anything about this behavior. Recently he sent out an office e-mail stating effective immediately the presence and consumption of alcohol is prohibited on company property with out the consent of the president.
I think they may have a liablilty issue here? Am I wrong? Isn't there something wrong here?

Hello gg:

I don't think so. And, if they were before, the memo ended it.

What kind of liability are you thinking about? Like if they get drunk at work and kill somebody on their way home??

Nahh, even if the VP knew about their after hours drinking, the company couldn't be held liable. Indeed, bars who SERVE alcohol have just recently been found to have some liability regarding their drunken customers.

How else do you think they could be liable?

excon

Yes excon, I was thinking in that since. If the VP knew and saw them drinking (and from what I understand they would end up drunk) and they got hurt on the job or went out and hurt someone else or even hurt someone at the job; would they (the Compay) be liable? There are a few people still in the office when they are having there drinking fest. Isn't the company putting other employees at risk? Thanks for responding

Hello again, gg:

Well, in a sue happy society you're probably right.

excon

Yes, this is part of the reason many companies no long have drinking at company parties, because of posible liablity,
If the drinking is on company property, with company permission, it is very possible there was or is a legal issue.