The American Burn Association hosts National Burn Awareness Week each February to provide burn injury prevention education. This year’s theme is about preventing burns in the workplace.
Burn risks exist in every workplace, from offices to factories, but simple steps can help keep everyone safe. According to the CDC, more than 398,000 Americans sought medical care for burns in 2021. Keep reading to learn how to improve burn prevention in your workplace.
Burn Prevention at Work
No matter your workplace, burn hazards exist. Identify the burn risks in your space and address any issues right away. Hot equipment, electrical panels, fuel storage, chemicals, and cooking areas are examples of areas to evaluate.
Make sure proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is available for employees and in good condition. If gear gets damaged, replace it as soon as possible.
Everyone at your workplace should know emergency procedures. Exits must always remain clear. Test alarms regularly to make sure they’re working correctly. Clearly communicate and document what to do in the event of fires, chemical exposures, or equipment failures. Offer safety training throughout the year so everyone remains aware of emergency procedures and burn prevention steps.
Maintain Your Workspace
Equipment and work areas need to be properly maintained to prevent burn risk. Be sure to service vehicles, appliances, machinery, tools, and heating devices as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent issues like fires and overheating. This also keeps your equipment in good working order, preventing costly malfunctions that can cause work injuries, lead to lost productivity, and/or require expensive repairs or replacements.
Be aware of hot surfaces. Open flames, steam, batteries, engines, and high-temperature equipment all carry the risk of burn injuries. Use caution when working in environments that include these items.
Proper storage is also key. Hazardous materials need to be stored appropriately to prevent injuries. Fuels, chemicals, gasses, and flammable materials should be stored in approved containers with proper ventilation.
Top 5 Tips for Preventing Burns at Work
The American Burn Association recommends the following:
- Wear protective gear like gloves, flame-resistant clothing, or helmets when handling hot surfaces, chemicals, or machinery.
- Monitor heat sources like hot oil, machinery, and boiling liquids. Never leave heat sources unattended. Open lids away from your face.
- Inspect and maintain equipment. Check for damage or overheating and address issues promptly.
- Store fuels, chemicals, and combustible materials correctly. Make sure they’re away from heat, sparks, and open flames.
- Know and practice emergency procedures. Ensure everyone knows exit routes. Keep fire extinguishers and first aid kits easily accessible.
Safety Cultures Help Prevent Burn Injuries
Make sure everyone is encouraged to speak up about any hazards they spot. Create a culture that reports and addresses safety issues promptly. Good safety habits can make a big difference in keeping all employees safe.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
