Hundreds of thousands of people suffer from mild to severe burns each year, and many visit an emergency room for treatment. In 2016, the American Burn Association (ABA) reported that approximately 8 percent of injuries treated in burn centers occur in the workplace. If you work in a hazardous environment, it is important to understand the causes of burn injuries and exercise caution while on the job. En español
Burn injuries are one of the nation’s leading causes of unintentional injury or death. According to the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, approximately 486,000 burn injuries received medical treatment from 2011 to 2015. A burn injury can occur when one’s skin is exposed to extreme heat, dangerous chemicals, radiation, electricity, or friction. There are three main types of burns:
Burn injuries can occur in many different work environments. However, certain occupations carry a higher risk since they expose workers to dangerous substances or circumstances. For example, these professionals face a heightened risk on the job:
According to the American Burn Association, the primary causes of burn injuries include flames, contact with hot objects, electrical issues, or dangerous chemicals. If you work in an environment that exposes you to any of these hazards, you may face a heightened burn risk and should exercise caution.
Employers are required to maintain a safe work environment, but unexpected accidents can occur. If you were severely burned at work, you may be entitled to financial compensation. An experienced Abogados Central Legal attorney could outline your rights, compile evidence related to the accident, and construct a persuasive legal defense. Call today to learn more.
