What kind of burns can people suffer on the job?

Louisiana industrial, oil and construction workers understand that their jobs can be dangerous. One jobsite risk involves skin burns. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), over 40,000 people go to the hospital each year for burns. To avoid injury and possible death, Louisiana workers should be aware of the different ways a person can suffer workplace burns.

Some scenarios may produce thermal burns. Open flame, a hot surface, or an explosion can all burn the human skin. If a worker is going to be exposed to flammable or hot substances, the employee should wear proper protective clothing and gear. In case of an emergency, workers should also know how to control and stop out of control fires.

Secondly, construction and industrial workplaces involve the use of corrosive substances that can burn human skin on contact. These substances can range from acids to laboratory chemicals to industrial cleaners. To avoid chemical burns, workers should be trained in the use of dangerous chemicals. Furthermore, chemicals should be labeled according to their level of risk.

Working around electricity also runs the risk of suffering electrical burns. Sometimes workers may underestimate the amount of voltage that flows through electrical connections. This is why areas with high voltage should be labeled with appropriate caution notices. Additionally, workers should avoid water while working with electricity to prevent electrocution.

Finally, workers may incur burns from being out in the sun. These are not much different than thermal burns, but people usually do not see these burns coming. If workers are outside for too long, they could suffer some nasty sunburns. Employees that are going to be outside for a prolonged period should wear clothing and gear that will guard their skin from the rays of the sun.

This article is written to educate readers on the subject of workplace accidents and is not to be taken as legal advice.