Like a horde of zombies rising from their graves, reopened US businesses are resurrecting Halloween-inspired events throughout October aimed at entertaining both employees and customers after 19 months of lockdowns and remote working.

But while the chance to cut loose and perform the “Monster Mash” or “Thriller” with colleagues and clients – until recently only seen over Zoom – may appear a tantalising prospect, Halloween parties may lead to frightful experiences among unwary and ill-prepared employers.