Educate and Protect Your People 5 Easy Ways to Prevent Burns

• 450,000 people suffer burn injuries each year ·
• Burns account for 42% of all workplace injuries ·
• 20% of workplace burns result in hospitalization.
• The average burn injury requires 4 days of missed work.

“Hot Liquids Burn Like Fire”

The American Burn Association recognizes Nation Burn Awareness Week February 5-11th, 2023, with a focus on scalding injuries. Scalds account for 60% of all burns. During Nation Burn Awareness Week, take time to review company safety processes and follow these easy tips to keep your workers safe:

• Keep workspace clear: Clutter not only decreases efficiency, but it can also be dangerous. Be alert to areas in the facility that may be prone to fires and keep them clean. Keep combustible items away from ignition sources. In the event of an emergency, make sure pathways are clear by keeping your facility continuously organized.
• Maintain equipment: Clearly mark hot zones on machines and continuously check them to make sure that they are in proper working order.
• Prevent shocks: When working with wires and panels, be aware of your surroundings. Use LO/TO practices to ensure that panels are locked when in service. Beware of loose wires that can electrocute. Arc flashes can reach 35,000 degrees and results in 400 fatalities every year. Use this guide to better understand how to label panels that are susceptible to an arc flash.
• Cover your skin: Leather gloves and long sleeves and long pants should be donned when doing hot work. Where electricity rated gear when working with 600 volts or above.
• Plan for emergencies: OSHA requires companies to have an emergency plan. Know it and practice it. Post clear safety signage throughout the facility and train employees to respond accordingly. Small steps in safety can make all the difference when it counts.

Train the Proper Emergency Response

Make sure your employees know what to do in the event of a burn injury:

• Quickly stop the burning by removing the person from the area
• Remove any clothing near the affected area, but nothing that is stuck to burnt skin.
• Cool the burn with cool water for 20 minutes. Never use ice or greasy substances
• Use blankets or clothing to keep the person warm, but never place them on the burn.
• Place a layer of cling wrap over the burn to protect it

Protect Workers with Hazard Communication

Burns are a real concern in every workplace and seconds are critical in rendering aid. Visual communication plays a key role in keeping people safe. Post clear safety signage throughout the facility and ensure workers know how to respond. Have an emergency plan. Practice it. Ensure that there are burn kits and showers ready at moment’s notice. Proper preparation can protect your workers and make every workplace safer and more efficient.