Burn injuries in the workplace can be severe and have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts on the employee. There are many common causes of workplace burn injuries and in this blog, Katrina Elsey looks at prevention strategies, and the legal rights of employees in the UK who suffer from such injuries.

Common causes of workplace burn injuries

Thermal Burns

• Hot surfaces and equipment: Contact with hot machinery, tools, or surfaces can cause severe burns
• Open flames: Workers in kitchens, manufacturing, and construction may be exposed to open flames
• Explosions: Explosions can occur in environments where flammable materials are present

Chemical Burns

• Exposure to corrosive substances: Chemicals such as acids and alkalis can cause burns upon contact with skin
• Spills and splashes: Handling or transporting hazardous chemicals increases the risk of accidental spills

Electrical Burns

• Faulty wiring and equipment: Poorly maintained electrical systems and equipment can lead to electrical burns
• Contact with live wires: Direct contact with live electrical wires can result in severe burns and other injuries

Radiation Burns

• Prolonged exposure: Workers in industries such as healthcare and nuclear power may be exposed to radiation sources
• Lack of protective gear: Insufficient protective equipment can increase the risk of radiation burns

Prevention strategies

Proper Training

• Safety training programs: Regular training sessions on handling hazardous materials and equipment
• Emergency procedures: Educate employees on emergency response procedures in case of a burn injury

Protective Equipment

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Ensure employees have access to and use appropriate PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and aprons
• Regular Inspections: Conduct routine checks to ensure all protective equipment is in good condition

Safety Protocols

• Safe handling procedures: Implement and enforce procedures for safely handling hot surfaces, chemicals, and electrical equipment
• Labelling and signage: Clearly label hazardous areas and substances with appropriate warning signs

Workplace Environment

Proper ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to reduce the risk of chemical and thermal burns

Maintenance and inspections: Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to prevent malfunctions that could lead to burns

Employees who suffer burn injuries at work are entitled to certain legal protections and may be eligible for compensation.

What you need to know

Employer Responsibilities

• Duty of care: Employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment. This includes proper training, equipment, and safety measures to prevent burn injuries
• Risk assessments: Employers must conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards

Reporting Injuries

Accident book: Report the injury to your employer and ensure it is recorded in the workplace accident book

RIDDOR: For serious injuries, employers must report the incident under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR)

Seeking Compensation

Personal injury claims: If your burn injury was caused by employer negligence, you may be eligible to bring a personal injury claim for compensation

Damages covered: Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering

Legal Advice

It's advisable to seek legal advice from a solicitor specialising in personal injury claims to understand your rights and the compensation process.

Burn injuries at work can have devastating consequences, but with proper training, safety measures, and awareness, many of these injuries can be prevented. By staying informed and vigilant, both employers and employees can work together to create safer workplaces and reduce the incidence of burn injuries.

If you suffer a burn injury at work, it's crucial you understand your legal rights and seek the appropriate compensation for your injuries. Contact us for no obligation advice - call 0800 1380 458 or email help@switalskis.com