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A staggering eight per cent of work-related injuries sustained by employees result from a physical assault by either a customer or colleague, according to the latest research from AXA Insurance.

The study also shows that one in ten employees are injured at work with employees in large companies (over 250 employees) almost twice as likely to suffer an injury at work compared to those in small and medium-sized companies. The majority of common accidents in the workplace are due to falls and trips and employees aged over 50 are the most likely group to have a fall whilst doing their work.

Unexpectedly, the highest level of physical assaults is experienced by employees in the professional services sector, which includes lawyers, consultants and accountants, with as many as 15% of employees in this sector being assaulted by a customer.

The issue of violence at work is a growing concern for businesses. Accidents and injuries sustained can be very costly, both in terms of employees having time off work to recover and due to potential compensation pay outs. AXA strongly advises businesses to carry out full risk assessments to minimise the risks their employees may suffer at work and to ensure they have rigorous health and safety procedures in place.