Treating Workplace Burns

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Minor Burn First Aid

Burns can happen almost anywhere, and those that happen in the workplace can be as destructive to productivity as fire damage. Understanding basic first aid can ease pain and help you return to work quickly.

Burns That Require Emergency Assistance

Some burns are too serious to be safely handled at home or at work. Always seek emergency medical assistance if you or another person have any of the following:

• Leathery, dry skin
  
• A wound that is deeper than the upper layer of skin
  
• A burn that covers the surface of extremities, or is wider than 3 inches
  
• Black, brown, or white charring
  
  

If you or someone else require medical assistance, always make sure that the person is safe and responsive until medical help arrives. Elevate affected areas, and use a moist, clean dressing at room temperature or below to cover wounds.

Minor Burn First Aid
Minor burns are burns that are minor enough to be treated without the attention of a medical professional. These burns are generally less painful than serious ones, but can be diagnosed when the following signs emerge:

• Limited surface area, normally less than 3 inches wide
  
• Reddish appearance
  
• Bubbling or blistering
  
• Discomfort
  
  

Many causes of burns, such as hot plates, boiling water, or open fire damage skin even after the heat source is removed. You can cool a burn by applying a moderately cool compress, or holding the burn under moderately cool water. It is always important to avoid damaging burned areas, as breaks in the skin can introduce bacteria that cause infections. As with any surface injury, applying a medical quality bandage will protect skin from further wear.
If you or a co-worker have sustained a burn during a workplace fire in Harrisonville, MO, you should first contact appropriate authorities to ensure that all personnel is properly cared for. The next step will often include a consultation with a restoration specialist to assess the extent of fire damage. By taking safety seriously, you make sure that you and your team can get back to business.