An airport ramp worker in his 20s has spent Christmas Day in hospital after he was seriously injured in a workplace incident on the tarmac of the Brisbane Airport International Terminal.

Paramedics reported the man had significant lower leg injuries and was transported to the Royal Brisbane Women and Children’s Hospital about 8pm on Christmas Eve, after he received first aid from airport staff at the scene.

He was working for Brisbane Airport contractor Swissport, with both the company and Transport Workers Union launching preliminary investigations into the incident.

“Safety is of paramount importance across Brisbane Airport,” said Brisbane Airport spokesman Peter Doherty.

“We are working with his employer Swissport to understand how this injury occurred.”

At the airport, Swissport ramp agents perform a number of support services for aircraft and air crews, including baggage handling, cabin cleaning, and manoeuvring planes on the tarmac before takeoff.

A Swissport spokesman promised a “full and thorough” investigation into the cause of the incident.

“The safety of our employees is Swissport’s greatest priority. We are also working closely with our other team members and first responders to provide assistance to those in need,” he said.

“Our priority at this time is supporting the well-being of the injured team member and his family as he undergoes treatment.”