# Physical Bullying > Physical Bullying means harmful force or obstruction to a person's safety involving actions like pushing, hitting, inappropriate touching **Term:** Physical Bullying **Last updated:** 2026-07-29 ## Definition ## What Physical Bullying Means in a Contract Physical Bullying is a defined term used in contracts, policies, and codes of conduct to describe conduct that goes beyond verbal or psychological harassment and involves actual or threatened bodily contact. It typically covers actions like pushing, hitting, shoving, kicking, blocking someone's path, damaging their belongings as intimidation, or inappropriate touching. The purpose of defining the term within a contract is to give both parties a clear, shared understanding of what behaviour is prohibited so that obligations, complaint procedures, and consequences can be applied consistently. Because physical bullying sits at the intersection of workplace safety, conduct standards, and sometimes criminal law, contracts often treat it as a serious breach that can justify immediate action, including suspension or termination, without requiring the usual notice period given for lesser infractions. The definition anchors that severity by describing observable, physical acts rather than subjective feelings, which makes it easier to apply consistently across different situations and reduces disputes about interpretation. In most agreements, the clause defining Physical Bullying works alongside broader anti-harassment or anti-bullying provisions, ensuring that both physical and non-physical forms of mistreatment are captured. This layered approach helps organisations demonstrate that they have addressed safety risks comprehensively, which is particularly relevant in sectors where physical proximity, shared facilities, or hierarchical relationships increase the risk of such conduct occurring. ## How Physical Bullying Is Defined or Measured Contracts typically define Physical Bullying by listing specific example behaviours rather than relying on a single abstract description, since physical acts are easier to observe and record than emotional harm. Common examples include hitting, pushing, tripping, spitting, unwanted or inappropriate touching, and deliberately obstructing someone's movement. Some definitions extend the term to include damage or theft of personal property when used as a means of intimidation. Measurement or assessment usually depends on factors such as intent, repetition, and impact on the victim's safety or ability to work or study without fear. A single incident may be serious enough to qualify if it involves significant force or clear intent to harm, while lower-level conduct may need to be repeated or part of a pattern before it meets the contractual threshold. Contracts often distinguish physical bullying from horseplay or accidental contact by requiring evidence of intent or disregard for the other person's safety. - Direct physical contact intended to harm, intimidate, or control another person. - Obstruction or confinement that restricts someone's freedom of movement. - Inappropriate touching that violates personal boundaries or consent. - Repeated minor physical acts that cumulatively create a hostile environment. ## Where Physical Bullying Appears in Agreements The term most commonly appears in employment contracts, staff handbooks, and standalone