Workplace burn injuries are serious. Although forklift injuries, slips, trips, and falls are often discussed, burns are an even more frightening and severe injury. If you suffer such an injury, understanding your rights and compensation options is key to protecting your livelihood. Contacting a personal injury attorney who understands the ins and outs of workplace burn injuries and compensation can help you protect your rights.
What are Workplace Burn Injuries?
Workplace burns range in type and severity.
Types of Burns
- Chemical burns are caused by exposure to hazardous substances like acids or harsh chemicals that eat away at the skin.
- Electrical burns occur when skin comes in contact with electrical wiring, outlets, or equipment.
- Thermal burns result from contact with hot surfaces, flames, or steam.
Severity of Burns
- First degree – burn affects the top layer of skin, causing redness without blistering
- Second degree – burn affects both the outer and underlying layers of skin, causing pain, redness, swelling and blistering
- Third degree – burns reach deeper tissues and nerves, potentially causing permanent damage
- Fourth degree – burn damages skin, fat, muscle, and bone
Workplace burns occur in a variety of industries and scenarios. In manufacturing and industrial settings, employees might come into contact with hot machinery, molten metals, or steam, leading to thermal burns. Chemical burns are common in laboratories and chemical plants where workers handle corrosive substances. Electrical burns are often seen in the construction and electrical industries, where employees are exposed to faulty wiring or live electrical circuits. Additionally, kitchen staff in the food service industry are at risk of burns from hot oils, open flames, and heated surfaces.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 16,550 workplace burns and corrosions in 2020. Of these cases, 2,230 caused employees to miss 31 or more days of work.
Steps to Take After Suffering a Workplace Burn Injury
Take immediate action if you suffer a burn at work. Here’s what to do:
- Seek medical attention. Even if the burn seems minor, you need to seek prompt treatment to prevent complications and ensure you have documentation.
- Notify your employer. Report the injury as soon as possible to officially record the incident and initiate workers’ compensation claims.
- Collect evidence. Take photos and videos of the injury and accident scene, collect witness statements from co-workers, and keep detailed records of all medical treatments and consultations.
Compensation for Burn Injuries
Victims of workplace burn injuries are usually entitled to workers’ compensation, which can cover a variety of costs:
- medical expenses
- lost wages
- long-term disability support
- additional compensation, which may include death and burial benefits
Compensation for burn injuries can differ based on how severe the burn is and how it impacts the victim’s life. For instance, second-degree burn claims might receive less compensation than third-degree, because recovery times and the possibility of long-term effects are different. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the average workers’ compensation claim for burns was $52,161 in 2020-202. That was higher than the average for any other claims during that period.
How a Workplace Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
A personal injury lawyer can help guide you through your burn injury claim. More specifically, they can:
- Thoroughly investigate the injury, gather evidence, and identify liable parties.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and employers on your behalf.
- If necessary, represent you in court and advocate for your rights and interests.
- Make sure all legal deadlines and requirements are met to prevent any issues that could delay your claim or cause it to be denied.
Understanding your rights and the compensation process is essential. If you’ve suffered a burn at work, seek legal advice quickly. Contact the law office of Timberlake, League & Brooks to help you get the compensation you deserve.
