One common type of injury that may occur in the workplace is burns. Employers must identify burn hazards in the workplace and create a fire prevention plan.
Employees also play a role in workplace safety culture and burn prevention. If you suffered a burn in the workplace, our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help with filing or appealing your claim.
Lawyer Robert “Bobby” Jones discusses 10 ways to prevent burns in the workplace.
10 Ways to Prevent Burns in the Workplace
Know the chemicals you’re working with
Most people use chemicals in their job. Even chemicals that seem harmless may be flammable or cause burn injuries when exposed to skin. Workers should know the chemicals that they’re working with and whether they are flammable or corrosive. They should know what to do if an accident occurs when working with chemicals.
Perform routine and necessary maintenance
Vehicles and equipment need inspection and maintenance. Vehicle and equipment care should be routine, and it should also address any specific issues that arise. When things need attention, they should be tagged out of service until they can be addressed. Power sources and electrical supply should be shut off during service.
Wear the right clothing
Personal protective equipment and flame-resistant clothing can prevent burns in the workplace. The personal equipment that a person uses should be specific to the risks associated with their job duties. Hair and dangling objects should be secured away from heat sources.
Store chemicals appropriately
Chemicals should be labeled and stored correctly. OSHA requirements address the storage of flammable liquids in approved containers and tanks. Flammable liquids may not be kept in areas people commonly use for passage like exits and stairways. Safety Data Sheets communicate hazard information including when chemicals are flammable or corrosive.
Train employees about hazardous materials
Employees must be adequately trained in storage, use and safety practices regarding hazardous materials. They must be aware of the possibility of fires and corrosive burns. They should understand prevention and response protocols.
Stay safe from lightning
Workers should seek shelter when there is lighting in the area. Lightning can cause burns as well as electrical shock. Burns from lighting range in type and severity. Burns may be superficial or full thickness. Burn injury from lightning often accompanies other types of harm including blunt force trauma, optic damage and damage to the nervous system.
Develop a safety program
Employers can empower their employees to contribute to safety in the workplace. A safety program should emphasize safety and the expectation that workers follow safety directives. Employees should know how they may report safety violations and should be encouraged to do so without retaliation. When safety violations occur, the response should be appropriate.
Train employees to use fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers can reduce heat, remove oxygen or otherwise remove fuel from a fire. They can prevent a small fire from becoming worse, and in turn, prevent burn injuries in the workplace. Employees should be trained to know where the fire extinguishers are located. They should understand the different types of fire extinguishers and how to use them.
Keep unauthorized people away from hazards
Patrons, children and anyone else that is unauthorized should be kept away from burn hazards. Warning signs and personnel may assist in helping to prevent unauthorized people from encountering dangers. Efforts may protect employees and other people from suffering burns.
Don’t leave dangers unattended
When burn dangers exist in the workplace, they should be monitored. A location may need consistent attention or safety inspections may need to occur periodically. Debris should be removed from a place where it may accrue. Leaks should be repaired. Risks should be assessed and appropriately monitored to prevent burn injury.
Legal Help for Burn Injuries in the Workplace
If you have suffered a burn injury in the workplace, we invite you to contact burn injury lawyer Robert “Bobby Jones.” Bobby Jones Law represents people who have been hurt and their families.
A burn injury can significantly impact your life. A lawyer can look at all possibilities for you to receive financial help, compensation and the benefits that you may deserve under the law. We can assist you with evaluating the situation, preserving evidence and taking steps to pursue your rights.
Contact our law firm today to talk about your case.
