According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 1.1 million people suffer burn-related injuries requiring medical treatment each year in the United States. The primary causes of burn injuries include fire-flames, scalds, contact with hot object, electrical and chemicals.

The first week of February is National Burn Awareness Week.

Across the country, employers and employees are called to pay extra attention to fire hazards, burn risks and prevention methods and general safety on the worksite. The campaign sponsored by the American Burn Association, is also designed to provide an opportunity for burn, fire and life safety educators to unite in sharing a common burn awareness and prevention message in our communities.

Types of Burns

 Thermal burns are burns resulting from contact with fire, hot liquids, hot surfaces, heated objects or other sources of high heat.
 Electrical burns are caused by coming in contact with an electrical source. When electricity passes through the body, the current meets resistance from the skin and body systems and can cause temporary or permanent damage to the skin, tissues and major organs.
 Chemical burns occur when living tissue is exposed to a corrosive substance, such as a strong acid or base. The main types of irritant and/or corrosive products found in the workplace are: acids, bases, oxidizers, solvents and alkalis.
 Friction burns can occur when skin repeatedly rubs against another surface or is scraped against a hard surface.
 Radiation burns is damage to the skin or other biological tissue as an effect of radiation.
 Cryogenic burns are cold burns caused from coming in contact with extremely cold liquified gases (e.g. liquid nitrogen, helium, oxygen, C02).

Tips for Preventing Burn Injuries at Work

1. Evaluate the workplace to identify burn dangers and fire hazards associated with the job or work space.

2. Train workers to be aware of burn safety protocols.

3. Wear appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment) and clothing to protect yourself.
Remember it can happen in a flash with a splash!!

4. Awareness – make sure staff are aware of potential burn dangers at your worksite. Post warning signage on equipment/materials and high risk areas.

5. Train workers on electrical safety and hazards.

6. When performing electrical work, follow Lockout/Tagout procedures and wear appropriate clothing and PPE.

7. Store and handle chemicals correctly according to the products safety data sheets (SDS) and labels.

8. Be prepared for the worst and to handle emergency situations. Make sure your workplace has properly functioning fire-extinguishing equipment, first aid kits, and eyewash stations available. If hazardous materials/chemicals are used, suitable spill containment and cleanup kits and materials should be available in the immediate area.

9. Pay attention – everyone should always be continually aware of their surroundings and movements.

10. Employers should consistently enforce fire and burn safety rules and prevention procedures for all employees.