Assaut at Work Compensation Claims.

Under UK legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, a workplace assault includes any physical attack, threat, or aggressive behaviour which causes harm or fear. Types of assault include:

• Physical Assault: Forceful acts like hitting, pushing, or throwing objects.
• Verbal Assault: Threats, abusive language, or bullying.
• Sexual Assault: Unwanted touching, sexual comments, or rape.
• Psychological Assault: Stalking, harassment, or intimidation.

If you have experienced any type of assault or violence in the workplace you may be eligible to claim compensation. Our specialist team of personal injury lawyers can offer advice and guidance, so please don’t hesitate to contact us.

In workplace assaults, employees can sustain a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. These injuries can be categorised as physical and psychological. Physical injuries include:

• Bruises
• Lacerations
• Fractures
• Internal injuries
• Head injuries
• Sprains and strains.

Psychological injuries include anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, and sleep disturbances such as insomnia.

The most common causes of workplace assaults typically vary by industry, but generally include interactions with frustrated or angry customers, financial disputes, workplace bullying, personal grudges, and unmanaged mental health issues in employees or clients. High-stress environments, overwork, fatigue, and substance abuse also contribute to aggression. Organisational factors such as the lack of clear policies against violence, and poor management practices can exacerbate the risk, as can inadequate security measures and unsafe work environments. External factors like domestic violence can spill over, and the risk of robbery in certain sectors can also play a role.

There are several circumstances where an employer might be held responsible if an employee is injured in an assault in the workplace. This includes environments in which employees are working alone or the premises are understaffed, leaving workers vulnerable to potential assaults. Employers who fail to provide adequate training and/or PPE to workers can be held liable if an employee is then assaulted due to being in a situation for which they are ill-prepared. Employers can also be held liable for a workplace assault if they have hired somebody without adequate vetting, e.g. a DBS check, or they have hired someone despite knowing they have a violent background, and this worker has gone on to commit an assault in the workplace.

Employers have a duty to ensure a safe working environment and take measures to protect employees from assaults at work. Here are some of the key steps they should take:

• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential situations that may place employees in danger.
• Have clear and concise policies regarding violence and harassment in the workplace, and ensure all employees are aware of these policies.
• Provide ongoing training to enable employees to recognise, prevent, and respond to workplace violence.
• Implement security measures such as cameras, access controls, and alarm systems, and ensure that all areas are adequately lit.
• Design the workplace to minimise the risk of assault, e.g. clear escape routes, and partitions to protect employees from aggressive customers.
• Implement a comprehensive response plan for dealing with violent incidents, and conduct regular emergency procedure drills.
• Ensure that all policies and procedures in the workplace are fully compliant with the relevant legislation, and regularly review and update as necessary.
• Foster a positive workplace culture by ensuring the work environment is inclusive and respectful, and address signs of bullying or harassment promptly.

As an employee, you have responsibilities to help prevent workplace assaults by following policies and procedures, reporting incidents and concerns, maintaining a secure and organised work environment, and practising clear and respectful communication. Stay vigilant for potential violence, support a positive workplace culture by avoiding and not tolerating aggressive behaviour, use personal safety measures, participate in safety programs and drills, and seek help if you experience stress or mental health issues. By fulfilling these duties, you can help to foster a safer and more secure workplace for everyone.