Burns are painful, slow to heal and often leave permanent scars. Many workplace burns happen in kitchens, factories, laboratories and on construction and maintenance work, and most could be prevented.
What types of burn happen at work?
- Thermal burns and scalds from ovens, fryers, hot surfaces, steam, hot water and molten materials
- Chemical burns from acids, alkalis, solvents and cleaning products
- Electrical burns from contact with live conductors or arc flash
- Friction burns from machinery and conveyors
- Radiation burns from ultraviolet sources such as welding
What must my employer do?
Several sets of regulations apply. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require a risk assessment covering burn hazards. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 require chemical risks to be assessed and controlled, including safe handling and emergency washing facilities. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 require hot equipment to be maintained and guarded against contact. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require safe electrical systems. Where risks remain, the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 require suitable gloves, aprons, face shields and other protection, provided free of charge.
What should I do after a burn?
Cool the burn with cool running water for 20 minutes, and for chemical burns, flush with plenty of water. Get medical treatment, report the accident in writing and photograph the injury as it heals. Keep any damaged PPE or equipment.
What about scarring?
Scarring is valued as part of the claim. The size, location and visibility of scars matter, with facial scars generally attracting higher awards, as do the need for skin grafts or scar revision and the psychological effect of a changed appearance. A psychiatric or psychological report may be needed where scarring causes anxiety, depression or social withdrawal.
How is a burns claim valued?
General damages for the burn and scarring are assessed using the Judicial College Guidelines, depending on severity, extent and recovery. Financial losses are added, including:
- treatment such as skin grafts, laser therapy or scar revision, including private treatment where reasonable
- physiotherapy and psychological therapy
- specialist creams, dressings and pressure garments
- lost earnings, past and future
- care and help at home
See compensation amounts, electrical accidents at work, chemical exposure at work and hospitality and catering injury claims.
Sources
Browse every plain-English guide in the work accident guides hub, or read the main guide to how a claim works.
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every claim turns on its own facts. For advice about your specific situation, speak to a regulated solicitor.