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The aim is to answer a host of potential seasonal queries covering pay, work rights and health and safety.

Common areas of concern - including office party pitfalls, working on Christmas Day and taking leave over the holiday period - are all covered.

Less frequent problem areas are also addressed - such as what to do if you suffer from a latex allergy and are too embarrassed to ask the office party organisers not to use balloons.

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said: "Working around Christmas should not spoil anyone's festive fun".

The guide would help workers "make the most of the holiday season by staying safe and avoiding conflict with any bosses who are not sharing in the holiday spirit", he added.

PROBLEMS TACKLED BY TUC Accepting Christmas gifts from suppliers Drinking at work The boss making a pass at the Christmas party Whether photocopiers can support someone's weight if the office party gets out of hand Irritating Christmas songs being played non-stop in the workplace Asking for time off to see a child in a school Christmas play

TUC health and safety expert Tom Mellish told BBC News most staff problems at Christmas concerned "contractual issues" including hours of work, pay, and holidays.

Low-paid and non-union workers in the transport, hospitality and retail sectors had the most cause for complaint, he added.

But another area of concern was Christmas shoppers becoming violent and abusive towards staff.

The TUC's guide helps workers contact agencies, including the Health and Safety Executive and Department of Trade and Industry, that can provide practical help.

It also tackles problems caused by relationships struck up at office parties.

And it gives advice to workers who celebrate a different religious festival and want to work over the Christmas holidays.

Guidance is even offered on how to ensure bosses provide a free Christmas lunch.