Violence at work

The number of violent incidents at work shows a downward trend over the last decade, with incidents remaining fairly constant over the last four years. Findings from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) show that in 2011/12.

• There were 643 000 incidents of work related violence estimated in England and Wales in the 2011/12
• Of these 324 000 were classified as assaults and 319 000 classified as threats. This was broadly similar to the number estimated for the previous year at 654 000 incidents (2010/11 CSEW)
• The risks of being a victim of work related violence are low for both men and women at 1.4%. However, 41% of victims were assaulted or threatened twice or more in 2011/12
• The occupations with the highest risks of experiencing work related violence were those involved in protective services, health and education
• A substantial proportion (40%) of offenders were known to victims of violence in the workplace
• Alcohol and drug use remain a factor in many incidents and whilst in the majority of cases no injuries are sustained, in 12% of cases physical trauma is indicated with possibly serious physical and psychological consequences for the individual involved
• In 2011/12 5493 cases of violence at work were reported under RIDDOR

Number of victims of violence at work for adults of working age in employment, 2001/02 to 2011/12 Crime Survey for England and Wales

Source: Crime Survey for England and Wales

• Violence at Work: Findings from the 2011/12 Crime Survey for England and Wales