Treatment of Burns (A Common on the Job Injury)

In this article we will look at three types of burns. These injuries are common among workers on industrial work sites and in restaurants. Please read on to learn more about how to treat burns from a fire, chemicals and electrical sources.

Chemical Burns

• To treat a chemical burn: remove the cause of the burn by flushing the chemicals off the skin with cool water, remove clothing or jewelry, apply a cool wet cloth to relieve pain, and wrap burned area loosely with a dry, sterile dressing. However, if the burn victim is in any pain or you are unsure of the severity of the chemical burn please SEE A PHYSICIAN.
• It is especially important to see a doctor if the injured person is showing signs of shock, if the burn covers more than three inches, is on the eye, hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or over a joint.
• If you have any questions about the toxicity of the chemical call the poison control center at 1.800.222.1222

Electrical Burns

• An electrical burn can seem minor but damage can be extensive. Internal injuries such as heart rhythm disturbances, even cardiac arrest, can occur. It is important to call 911 and get immediate assistance if the person is in any pain, is confused or is experiencing changes in his breathing, heartbeat or consciousness.
• How to help after an electrical burn
• Look first. Don't touch. The victim may still be in contact with the source. If you touch the person you may be electrocuted.
• Turn off the power source. If you can't turn it off then move the source away from you and the victim with a dry nonconducting item. (cardboard, plastic or wood)
• Check for signs of circulation. Check for breathing, coughing or movement. If there are no signs begin CPR.
• Prevent shock. Lay the person down with the head slightly lower than the body and legs.
• Cover the affected areas. Cover any burned areas with a sterile gauze or clean cloth. DO NOT use a blanket or towel as it can stick to the burn.

Burns (from fire or grease)

• Treatment of minor burns. To treat minor burns (first-degree and second-degree less than three inches in diameter)
• Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cold running water or submerse for at least five minutes.
• Cover the burn. Using a sterile gauze bandage wrap the wound loosely. Avoid putting pressure on the wound.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. This includes aspirin (if an adult), ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen.
• Treatment of serious burns. If the burn is major call 911 immediately.

If you have been injured while at work you may be eligible for workers compensation. However, your employer and their insurance company may try and undervalue your claim. They may pressure you to sign forms that you are not comfortable signing. The insurance agent may offer you a sum that seems fair. However, only an experienced on-the-job injury attorney can properly evaluate your injures and your claim.

Long term therapy, loss of wages and ongoing medical care can quickly add up, leaving you without enough money to pay your medical bills. Please DO NOT sign anything related to your workers compensation claim until you have spoken to an attorney.

At Van Dorn & Curtiss we do our best, everyday, to get our clients maximum compensation for their injuries. If you have been injured while at work please contact an attorney for your free consultation. Though we are located in Orford, NH we take cases from across New England to include Berlin, Manchester, Nashua and Concord.