10 Most Common Work Injuries and How Seymour Furlong Lawyers Can Help

Aug 24, 2026Workcover, Workers’ Compensation

At Seymour Furlong, we’ve helped thousands of Queenslanders recover from work injuries—both physically and financially. Every injury, no matter how minor it may seem at first, deserves proper legal attention. Many workers don’t realise that common work injuries can result in significant compensation entitlements under Queensland’s workers’ compensation scheme.

Below, we’ve outlined the most frequent types of injuries we see—and how our experienced lawyers can support your claim.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

These are among the most reported injuries across all industries. Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or loose cables can cause serious harm—from sprains to fractures.

How we help: We gather evidence quickly, including workplace incident reports and CCTV footage, and ensure your claim is filed on time. We also challenge insurers if liability is denied.

Muscle Strains and Sprains

Manual labour, repetitive lifting, or awkward movement often results in back, shoulder, or neck strains. Even sedentary workers can suffer muscle injuries due to poor posture or improper workstation setup.

Legal insight: Muscle injuries that develop gradually can still be compensable. We guide you in documenting symptoms and proving their connection to your employment.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)

RSIs such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis are common among office workers, tradespeople, and healthcare staff. These conditions often worsen over time if left unaddressed.

Our role: We help establish a timeline of injury and secure expert medical reports—key in proving causation and permanent impairment.

Machinery and Equipment Accidents

Injuries from unguarded machinery, malfunctioning equipment, or lack of training can lead to amputations, crush injuries, and long-term disability.

Our approach: We investigate employer negligence, equipment safety history, and safety protocol breaches. We may also seek lump-sum compensation for serious injury or permanent impairment.

Falling Objects

This is a daily hazard in construction sites, warehouses, and loading bays. Workers often suffer head, neck, or spinal injuries from falling tools or materials.

How we support: We ensure fast access to treatment funding and file claims that reflect the full extent of your injury—especially if there’s risk of ongoing disability.

Vehicle-Related Injuries

From forklift incidents to road accidents involving delivery drivers, workplace vehicle injuries are common and often severe.

What we do: We coordinate with both WorkCover and CTP insurers (where applicable) to ensure you’re not short-changed. We also help with overlapping claims involving third-party negligence.

Workplace Violence and Bullying

Verbal abuse, threats, or physical assault can lead to psychological trauma and physical injury. Sadly, we’ve seen a rise in workplace mental health claims across many industries.

Our expertise: We help victims navigate complex psychological injury claims, providing evidence of unsafe environments or toxic management practices.

Exposure to Harmful Substances

Contact with chemicals, asbestos, or biological waste can cause burns, respiratory issues, or long-term illness.

Our focus: We engage medical experts to assess long-term exposure and potential future health risks—key factors in securing compensation.

Electrical Injuries

Electric shocks, burns, or arc flash injuries often occur due to faulty wiring, lack of PPE, or inadequate training.

Legal response: We push for accountability if your employer failed to provide safe systems of work or adequate supervision.

Burns and Scalds

From kitchens to factories, burns are common—and can be physically and emotionally devastating.

Compensation strategy: Our legal team ensures you’re not just compensated for medical costs, but also for pain, disfigurement, and lost earning capacity.

When Should You Contact a Lawyer?

If you’ve experienced any of the above, it’s critical to seek legal advice early. Delays in reporting or gathering evidence can impact your eligibility or reduce your compensation.

At Seymour Furlong, we operate on a no-win, no-fee basis. This means no upfront cost to you—just experienced guidance from Queensland’s trusted workcover lawyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What should I do immediately after a workplace injury?
    Notify your employer, seek medical attention, and contact us for a free consultation.
  2. Can I claim if the injury developed over time?
    Yes—many conditions like RSIs or psychological injuries are covered under gradual-onset claims.
  3. What compensation can I receive?
    You may be entitled to weekly payments, treatment costs, travel expenses, and lump-sum payouts for permanent impairment.
  4. How long does the claim process take?
    Simple claims can resolve in weeks. Complex or disputed cases may take several months.
  5. What if my employer denies the injury happened at work?
    We’ll gather independent evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, and escalate to tribunal if needed.
  6. Is there a time limit to claim?
    Yes—strict timeframes apply. Don’t delay seeking legal advice.

Let Seymour Furlong Protect Your Rights

Workplace injuries are common—but you don’t have to face them alone. Our lawyers are here to ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve. Contact Seymour Furlong Lawyers today for a free consultation and start your recovery with confidence.