Burn Injuries

Whether you work in a kitchen, a factory, or a construction site, the risk of burns is always present.

Burn injuries are a significant concern in the workplace, affecting thousands of workers each year. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 5,000 workers are hospitalized each year due to severe burns. Of all the workplace burn injuries in the United States, thermal burns are the most common, accounting for over 40% of workplace burn incidents. Chemical burns represent about 30%, while electrical burns and radiation burns make up the remaining cases.

Industries with the highest risk of burn injuries include manufacturing, construction, food service, and healthcare. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that workers in these sectors are two to three times more likely to suffer from burn injuries compared to other fields.

Additionally, burns are not only painful and debilitating but also costly, with the average workers' compensation claim for a burn injury reaching over $45,000.

Burns are divided up into several types based on the cause of the burn.

Thermal Burns: Thermal burns occur from exposure to open flames, hot surfaces, or hot liquids. Employees in kitchens, manufacturing plants, and construction sites are most at risk of thermal burns.

Chemical Burns: Handling chemicals without proper protective equipment can lead to chemical burns. Workers in laboratories and factories, as well as those who regularly handle cleaning supplies, are particularly vulnerable to these types of burns.

Electrical Burns: Electrical burns result from contact with live electrical wires or equipment. Electricians, construction workers, and maintenance personnel are among the most commonly affected.

Radiation Burns: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light or other forms of radiation can cause serious burns. This is a significant risk for healthcare workers, lab technicians, and outdoor workers who are exposed to the sun for extended periods.

No matter the cause, burn injuries can be severe and life-altering. If you have recently experienced a burn injury at work, you can be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

Burns are categorized by their depth and the extent of the skin damage, with first-degree burns being the least serious and fourth-degree burns being the most serious.

First-Degree Burns

These are superficial burns affecting only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). Symptoms include redness, mild swelling, and pain. First-degree burns usually heal within a week without scarring.

Second-Degree Burns

These burns penetrate deeper, affecting both the epidermis and the underlying layer (dermis). They are characterized by blisters, severe pain, and swelling. Second-degree burns may take several weeks to heal and can sometimes result in scarring.

Third-Degree Burns

Third-degree burns destroy both the epidermis and dermis, extending into the fat layer beneath the skin. These burns can appear white, blackened, or charred and may not be painful initially due to nerve damage. Third-degree burns require immediate medical attention and often need surgical treatment, such as skin grafts.

Fourth-Degree Burns

The most severe, fourth-degree burns extend beyond the skin into muscles, tendons, and bones. These burns are life-threatening and require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and rehabilitation.

If you have suffered a burn injury at work, it’s essential to understand your rights and options under Florida’s workers' compensation laws. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we have a long history of helping workers like you navigate the complexities of workers' compensation claims and pursue the compensation and medical benefits they deserve. Dealing with a burn injury can be overwhelming, especially when it affects your ability to work and support your family. Our experienced team can help you every step of the way. We do not get paid for our services unless and until there is a monetary recovery. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call us at 305-448-8585. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.