Half of workers don't make a hot drink at work so to avoid including colleagues in a tea round, a new survey suggests.

Research among 2,000 adults also indicated that four out of five found small talk with other office workers "irritating", especially when it involved football or children.

Talking about the weather, or asking someone how their weekend was, also emerged as annoying, according to the study by Hyper Recruitment Solutions.

Most of those surveyed said they had experienced rudeness at work, including being sworn at, reprimanded in front of colleagues or personal remarks about their clothes.

Half admitted to avoiding making themselves a cup of tea or coffee at work so they don't have to make one for colleagues.

"While employees are direct on some issues, they'd rather avoid the situation completely than feel obliged to make a brew for others," said the report.

The study also suggested that most employees find physical contact in the workplace is acceptable, including a kiss on the cheek, high fives or hugs.

Ricky Martin, founder of Hyper Recruitment Solutions, said: "We often hear and read in the media how physical contact at work isn't acceptable, yet the results suggest otherwise.

"Of course, physical contact isn't always appropriate or well received so I'd advise it's essential to be aware of factors such as personality, religion and culture.

"What might be regarded as friendly in one culture may be deemed as deeply offensive in another.

"However, as the results suggest, should the relationship be there and requited, it shouldn't be frowned upon for colleagues to hug, high-five or give one another a pat on the back."