Burn injuries are a common type of occupational injury that can cause pain, disability, and, in severe cases, even death.
If you have suffered a burn at work, it is crucial that you understand your rights and the steps you must take to obtain the compensation you deserve.
What to do?
If you have been injured by a burn at work, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Early medical attention can help prevent complications and speed recovery.
You should also report your injury to your employer. Your employer must file an accident report with the California Workers’ Compensation Commission (DWC).
Causes of burn injuries:
- Thermal burns: These are caused by heat, such as fire, steam, or hot liquids.
- Electrical burns: They are caused by electricity.
- Chemical burns: They are caused by chemicals.
Burn injuries are classified into three degrees:
- Grade I: First-degree burns affect only the top layer of skin, the epidermis. First-degree burns are usually red, tender, and can cause pain.
- Grade II: Second-degree burns affect the epidermis and dermis, the deepest layer of the skin. Second-degree burns are usually red, blistering, and painful.
- Grade III: Third-degree burns affect all layers of the skin, including underlying tissues. Third-degree burns can be white, black, or charred and do not cause pain.
Symptoms of burn injuries
The symptoms of a burn can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blisters
- Dry or flaky skin
- Infection
Seek legal help
If you have suffered a burn at work, it is important that you seek legal help as soon as possible. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and file a workers’ compensation claim.
They can also help collect evidence of your injury, such as medical records and photographs, in addition to negotiating with your employer or the insurance company to obtain the maximum possible compensation.
Burn injuries can have a significant impact on your life. If you have suffered a burn at work, it is vital that you take steps to protect your rights.