Understanding the Types of Injuries Covered by WorkCover in Queensland

Injuries can happen to anyone, at any time. When it comes to work-related injuries, it is important to understand your rights and options. In Queensland, workers who suffer an injury while on the job are entitled to compensation under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003. As an injured worker, you have the right to make a WorkCover claim to cover the cost of treatment and lost wages. In this blog, we will explore the types of injuries that are covered under Queensland WorkCover and how Ascent Lawyers can assist you.

1. What are the Common Types of Injuries?

WorkCover claims can cover various types of injuries, including physical injuries, mental health injuries, diseases, and systemic injuries. It is important to understand what kind of injury you have suffered.

2. Physical Injuries

Physical injuries are some of the most common types of WorkCover claims. These injuries typically occur from accidents at work or due to unsafe work practices. Some examples of physical injuries that are covered by WorkCover in Queensland include:

• Impact Injuries – These are injuries that occur due to a heavy impact, such as fractures, dislocations, and bruises.
• Burns – Burns can occur due to contact with hot objects or chemicals. Depending on the severity of the burn, they can cause tissue damage, scarring, or even death.
• Fractures – These occur when bones break or crack due to external forces. Fractures can be painful, limiting mobility, and require significant healing time.
• Dislocations – Dislocations occur when bones are moved out of their joint. These injuries can be quite painful and often require medical attention.

3. Mental Health Injuries

Workplace injuries can also be psychological, such as mental health injuries. Mental health injuries can be caused by a range of circumstances, including workplace bullying, harassment, violence, or work-related stress. Some examples of mental health injuries that are covered by WorkCover in Queensland include:

• Adjustment Disorders – Adjustment disorders occur when someone struggles to adapt to a major life change or event, such as a significant injury.
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – PTSD is a severe anxiety disorder that develops after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. This can occur in a range of occupations, such as emergency services or military personnel.
• Acute Stress Reactions – Acute stress reactions can occur in response to a stressful event. These reactions can cause emotional distress, physical reactions, and difficulty thinking.

4. Diseases

Work-related diseases can develop over an extended period of exposure to harmful substances, such as asbestos, solvents, or chemicals. These diseases can be severe and have long-term effects. Some examples of work-related diseases that are covered by WorkCover in Queensland include:

• Asbestosis – Asbestos is a carcinogen that can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma. Exposure to asbestos can also cause breathing difficulties, chest pain, and coughing.
• Q fever– Q fever is an infectious disease that is spread from animals to people by bacteria called Coxiella burnetii.

5. Systemic Injuries

Systemic injuries are injuries that affect the body as a whole. These injuries can develop over extended periods of exposure to harmful substances, such as loud noises or chemicals. Some examples of systemic injuries that are covered by WorkCover in Queensland include:

• Hearing Loss – Exposure to loud noises can damage the sensitive structures in the ear, leading to hearing loss.
• Respiratory Issues – Breathing in hazardous substances, such as dust, chemicals, and fumes can lead to respiratory issues, such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
• Vision Loss – Exposure to bright lights, lasers, and radiation can lead to vision loss.

6. What to Do if You are Experiencing a Work-Related Injury

If you are experiencing a work-related injury, it is important to take action.

Step 1: Report the injury to the employer

Step 2: Completing a work capacity certificate

• The injured worker must submit a work capacity certificate.
• This certificate can be completed by their treating GP.
• In some circumstances, if the injured worker was taken to a hospital as a result of a work injury, the hospital can also complete a Work capacity certificate on their behalf to help initiate the claim process.

Step 3: Lodge the claim

There are multiple ways in which the injured worker can lodge a claim:

1. Online claim: The fastest and easiest method is for the injured worker to complete and submit an online claim.
2. Phone: The injured worker can call 1300 362 128 and talk to a member of the WorkCover team.
3. Claim form: The injured worker can complete a claim form and either upload it using the WorkCover online service, fax it to 1300 651 387, or post the completed form to GPO Box 2459, Brisbane Qld 4001.

7. How Can Ascent Lawyers Help?

At Ascent Lawyers, we understand the complexities of WorkCover claims. Our team of experienced lawyers can guide you through the claim process and handle the negotiation on your behalf. We can liaise with all parties, including insurers, medical practitioners, and employers, to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We are committed to advocating for your rights and achieving a fair outcome. If you are experiencing a work-related injury, contact us today to explore your options