Types of workplace injuries
Workplace injuries encompass a wide range of harm, both physical and psychological. Understanding what constitutes a workplace injury is important for proper reporting and workers' compensation claims.
Physical injuries
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Cuts, burns, fractures
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Occupational diseases
Psychological injuries
- Work-related stress
- Anxiety and depression
- PTSD from incidents
- Bullying/harassment trauma
Employer obligations
When a workplace injury occurs, employers have specific legal obligations:
Key employer duties
Workers' compensation
Workers' compensation provides a no-fault insurance system for workplace injuries. Employers must have coverage, and workers can claim regardless of who was at fault for the injury.
- Medical expenses: Treatment, rehabilitation, medication costs
- Income replacement: Weekly payments while unable to work
- Rehabilitation: Support to return to work or retrain
- Permanent impairment: Lump sum for lasting injuries
- Death benefits: Payments to dependents if worker dies
Notifiable incidents
Serious workplace injuries must be reported to SafeWork or WorkSafe in your state/territory immediately. This includes deaths, serious injuries requiring medical treatment, and dangerous incidents. Failure to report is an offence with significant penalties.
Return to work process
Employer responsibilities
- Provide suitable duties if available
- Participate in RTW planning
- Maintain contact with worker
- Make reasonable adjustments
Common suitable duties
- Modified hours (part-time return)
- Reduced physical demands
- Different tasks temporarily
- Workplace modifications
Common workplace injury mistakes
Late reporting
Not reporting notifiable incidents immediately or failing to lodge workers' comp claims within required timeframes.
Dismissing injured workers
Terminating employment because of a workplace injury, which may breach general protections under the Fair Work Act.
No investigation
Failing to investigate injuries to identify and fix hazards, leading to repeat incidents.
Key takeaways
Workplace injuries require prompt action—first aid, reporting, investigation, and supporting return to work. Employers must maintain workers' compensation insurance and meet their obligations to injured workers.
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