Injury Compensation for Utilities Workers in Queensland: What Are Your Legal Rights?

In Queensland’s utilities sector, working with electricity, chemicals, and heights isn’t just part of the job – it’s what keeps the lights on, water running, and so much more. However, those same critical tasks come with serious risks. 

With hazards like electrical shocks, chemical burns, and dizzying heights, the stakes are high, and accidents happen in an instant. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Here’s how to understand your rights, common injuries, and the steps to stay safe on the job.

Key Injury Statistics for Utilities Workers

Utility work is high-risk, especially when working with hazardous substances, live wires, and elevated structures. Statistics show the impact:

1. In Australia, between July 2014 and June 2016, around 1,065 people were hospitalised due to electrical injuries. In that group, 47% of these injuries occurred on the job. However, 14% related to unpaid work, such as household maintenance.
2. Chemical burns account for 3–5% of all burn-related hospital admissions. Yet, despite this small percentage, they are responsible for a staggering 30% of all burn-related fatalities. A chilling reminder of the dangers posed by exposure to harsh chemicals
3. Falls are among the most common and fatal accidents in the utilities sector. Inadequate harnesses and ladders contribute to the highest number of fatalities at 16%. 

Common Injuries and Their Causes

Electrical Shocks

Electric shocks are often caused by faulty equipment, exposed wires, or lack of insulation. Workers must stay vigilant when working with these live wires. To reduce the risk:

1. Utility workers need to ensure they carry out regular maintenance of the equipment they use for electrical work.  
2. Also, the importance of using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) cannot be emphasised enough.
3. Finally, always ensure you are adhering to safety protocols and measures. Never take risks or shortcuts around live wires. 

Burns

Burns from chemical splashes or fumes are frequent in environments where chemicals are handled. To prevent serious burns take these precautions: 

1. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Never risk touching or letting your skin come into contact with these serious chemicals. 
2. Ensuring proper ventilation is also paramount in areas where these chemicals are used. 
3. Another important tip is to follow all safety measures carefully. If these protocols are not clear to you, stop immediately until you feel you feel well educated on how to handle chemicals. 

Falls from Heights

Working on elevated surfaces or platforms without appropriate safety harnesses is a known hazard. Falls often occur due to inadequate safety harnesses, poor ladder use, or lack of proper training. To mitigate this risk:

1. Safety Training: Comprehensive, hands-on training with safety equipment is essential. Workers should receive regular refresher courses to stay updated on best practices and new technologies, ensuring everyone knows exactly how to operate safety tools and equipment under varying conditions.
2. Regular Maintenance & Checks: Establish a schedule for routine inspections to catch wear and tear early. This includes checking safety gear, machinery, and electrical tools for any damage, with immediate repairs or replacements to prevent accidents.
3. Follow Safety Measures: Strict adherence to established safety protocols reduces risk. Reinforce these guidelines through ongoing education, clear signage in high-risk areas, and periodic audits to ensure they’re followed consistently across all teams.

Recent Incidents and Safety Concerns

The following real-life accidents reported by WorkSafe Queensland underscore just how critical rigorous safety protocols are in high-risk environments. WorkSafe Queensland regularly reports on workplace incidents involving utility workers. Take a look at these recent examples which highlight the importance of safety measures:

1. In a shocking accident, young worker suffered serious injuries from an electric shock whilst he was assisting an electrician at a residential site. He suffered severe injuries due to an electric shock caused by inadvertently making contact with an exposed live cable hidden in a crawl space. This incident underscores the life-or-death importance of maintaining safety awareness in confined spaces. Electrical safety in tight areas isn’t just about avoiding danger; it’s about comprehensive checks, knowing the space, and strictly following protocols.
2. In another sobering case, a man in his 50s sustained severe injuries after falling five metres into a water tank in Daisy Hill, south of Brisbane. The incident occurred while he was performing maintenance duties. The fall led to serious injuries and a complex rescue operation involving firefighters and paramedics. This incident highlights the sometimes-overlooked risk of heights, especially in seemingly secure work environments. Fall protection protocols are not just guidelines—they’re lifelines. In cases like this, each layer of protection counts, from harnesses and secure footing to proper training on fall risks in confined areas.

Compensation Rights Under WorkCover QLD

Injured utility workers in Queensland are eligible to claim compensation under WorkCover Queensland. This helps cover expenses such as lost wages, medical bills, and ongoing care.

Statutory Claims

These no-fault claims are designed to provide quick, comprehensive assistance. Any worker injured during their work hours is eligible for statutory compensation, regardless of fault. These benefits may include:

1. Weekly payments for income replacement.
2. Lump sums for permanent impairment.
3. Reimbursement for hospital and medical expenses.

Common Law Claims

If employer negligence can be proven, workers may pursue additional compensation through a common law claim. A common law claim seeks restitution for economic losses, pain, suffering, and long-term medical needs. The process involves:

1. First of all, you need to lodge a statutory claim.
2. Then you will need to have your claim accepted by WorkCover Queensland.
3. Proceeding with a common law claim if necessary. It is advised to seek professional legal support at this stage in order to receive the best outcome. 

Common law claim benefits for an injury at work may include compensation for economic loss, pain and suffering, legal costs, and ongoing medical expenses.

Advocating for Safety: Tips for Utilities Workers

Safety in the utilities sector isn’t just up to employers. Workers also play a vital role in maintaining a safe environment. It’s important to take actions to advocate for your safety at work. Take these steps for best practice: 

1. Follow lockout and tagout procedures strictly to prevent accidental equipment start-ups during maintenance.
2. Use proper safety harnesses when working at heights and ensure regular inspections to avoid falls.
3. Report any safety concerns you notice to your supervisor or directly to WorkSafe Queensland immediately. 
4. Ensure the equipment you use is regularly maintained and checked, either by you or another utility professional. 
5. Participate in workplace health and safety committees and training sessions to improve safety standards. These sessions will also keep up-to-date with recent safety procedures. 

Protecting Your Rights and Seeking Help

The utilities industry is a balancing act between critical services and high-stakes risks, demanding more than just routine safety checks and protocols. Knowing your rights with WorkCover Queensland offers protection, but it’s a starting point, not the full story. 

Real security lies in a proactive approach—an environment where every worker feels empowered to advocate for safety, spot hazards, and support colleagues. By actively fostering a culture that values well-being, workers and employers together create a resilient, safer workplace where health isn’t just a priority—it’s the foundation.

If you've been injured while working in the utilities sector, seek medical attention immediately and lodge a claim with WorkCover Queensland. For more information on workers' compensation and safety procedures, visit the WorkCover Queensland website or contact them directly. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if my employer doesn't report my injury? 

If your employer does not report your injury you need to report it yourself to WorkCover Queensland immediately. This helps ensure prompt processing of your claim for compensation. 

How long do I have to lodge a claim? 

Generally, you have six months to lodge a claim with WorkCover Queensland. However, this can vary depending on circumstances. That is why it is so important to lodge your claim as soon as possible after the injury to minimise costs and receive compensation quickly.

Can I claim compensation if I was partially at fault? 

Yes, you can claim compensation if you were partially at fault for causing your injury at work in Queensland. However, the compensation amount is likely to be reduced relative to your contribution to the injury.

What if I need to return to work but am not fully recovered? 

You can return to work in Queensland even if you have not fully recovered from your injury. In most cases, your duties may be modified while you are still recovering. WorkCover Queensland will help you develop a suitable return-to-work plan.

For more information, visit these relevant websites:

1. WorkCover Queensland
2. WorkSafe Queensland
3. Business Queensland

Check your rights: Smith's Lawyers are work injury compensation experts offering risk-free claims with no upfront costs and free initial consultations. Request a free case review below or call us now on 1800 960482.