Preventing Burn Injuries in the Workplace

Here are the common types of burns that occur at work.¹

• Thermal burns are caused by exposure to the heat from liquids, open flames, hot objects and explosions. They can be prevented by wearing personal protective equipment, using fire prevention tactics, and by having an emergency action plan to identify hazards and communicate procedures to workers.
• Chemical burns are the result of skin or eyes coming into contact with strong acids, alkaloids, or other corrosive or caustic materials that “burn” skin and deeper tissue. These burns can occur after exposure to industrial cleaners (such as rust removers or drain cleaners) or exposure to chemicals in laboratories or in manufacturing workplaces. Chemical burns can be prevented by making sure all workers are familiar with hazard communication, which covers the symbols and labels that communicate chemical risk. The labels also include steps workers can take if they come into contact with dangerous chemicals. Employers are required to train workers on the labels’ elements and safety data sheets to facilitate recognition and understanding.
• Electrical burns occur when electrical current travels through the body and meets resistance in tissue. To avoid burns from electrical sources, high-voltage areas and machinery must be clearly marked. Workers must identify live wires, avoid contact with water while working with electricity, and wear proper personal protective equipment to avoid burns by electricity. Electricity has long been recognized as a serious workplace hazard. OSHA’s electrical standards are designed to protect employees exposed to dangers and help avoid accidents.
• Sun exposure burns can technically be considered thermal burns, but they are worthy of special consideration. Employers and employees should follow sun exposure recommendations to prevent burns. Work hours under harsh direct sunlight should be reduced, shade or indoor break areas should be provided, and sun-protective work clothing, hats and sunscreen should be worn to reduce the risk of burns from sun exposure.⁴

One of the most important steps an employer can take in communicating the risk of burn injuries is providing proper training to their employees. Training should cover any hazards that the employee might encounter on the job site, as well as an overview of OSHA standards. Employees should be trained on their specific job functions, including safety training for any machinery, chemicals or other worksite hazards that are specific to their job.¹ 

If you have questions about OSHA training requirements, please contact your Summit loss prevention consultant. When employees are trained to work safely, through the requirements, they should be able to anticipate and avoid injury from job related hazards.

1. “Preventing Workplace Burns.” USFOSHA.com, www.usfosha.com/osha-articles/workplace-burn-prevention/ (Accessed January 11, 2023).
2. “Workers’ Compensation Costs.” Injury Facts, National Safety Council, https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/work/costs/workers-compensation-costs/ (Accessed January 11, 2023).
3. “Burn Awareness Week.” American Burn Association. http://ameriburn.org/prevention/burn-awareness-week/ (Accessed January 11, 2023).
4. “Sun Exposure Recommendations.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, NIOSH, https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/sunexposure/recommendations.html (Accessed January 11, 2023).

The information presented in this publication is intended to provide guidance and is not intended as a legal interpretation of any federal, state or local laws, rules or regulations applicable to your business. The loss prevention information provided is intended only to assist policyholders of Summit managed insurers in the management of potential loss producing conditions involving their premises and/or operations based on generally accepted safe practices. In providing such information, Summit Consulting LLC does not warrant that all potential hazards or conditions have been evaluated or can be controlled. It is not intended as an offer to write insurance for such conditions or exposures. The liability of Summit Consulting LLC and its managed insurers is limited to the terms, limits and conditions of the insurance policies underwritten by any of them.