Burn injuries at work can be very severe and life-threatening, affecting a worker’s health, livelihood, and future. In a city like Las Vegas, where the construction and entertainment industries are thriving, employees are exposed to hazards that can lead to burns every single day.
For example, a kitchen worker has to handle hot oil. A construction worker who deals with welding materials or electricians and faulty wiring. Keep reading to understand some common workplace accidents that cause burn injuries.
Thermal Burns
This is when a worker comes into contact with flames, hot surfaces, steam, and scalding liquids. Sometimes this is because of an employer’s negligence. A Las Vegas burn injury attorney can help victims pursue justice and get compensation.
These types of burns are common in:
- Kitchen areas and restaurants in general where there are open flames and boiling liquids could harm cooks and waiters.
- Construction sites in situations where workers handle machinery that can overheat.
- Housekeeping staff at casinos and hotels may also suffer thermal burns from malfunctioning appliances.
Chemical Burns
Chemical burns are notorious in industries like cleaning, manufacturing, and maintenance. These injuries can be caused by strong industrial cleaning agents like disinfectants and degreasers used in casinos, hotels, and restaurants if not handled properly.
Pool and spa chemicals used in Las Vegas resorts may also lead to chemical burns if not diluted or stored as required. In construction, workers handle cement and solvents. Any mistake when not wearing the right protective gear could leave workers with serious chemical burns.
Electrical Burns
In Las Vegas, there are countless hotels and casinos that rely on complex electrical systems. Sometimes, workers accidentally touch high-voltage wires or there are malfunctioning circuits.
For instance, an electrician handling an overloaded circuit panel can end up with electrical burns if there is faulty wiring. Another example is stage electricians who set venues for performers. All the lights and sound systems use high-voltage equipment for live productions.
Construction workers may also suffer burns from exposed power lines or poorly grounded equipment.
Radiation Burns
Even though radiation burns are less common, they can still happen in certain workplaces. In medical facilities, healthcare workers could be exposed to radiation during X-rays or when doing other procedures.
In welding and construction, workers work with UV welding torches that can cause burns if you don’t wear proper eye and skin protection.
How to Prevent Burn Injuries at Work
Employers and workers in Las Vegas can take some measures to reduce the risks of burns happening. This includes:
- Providing enough training on handling hot surfaces, chemicals, and electrical material.
- Wearing protective gear at all times, such as safety goggles, gloves, and fire-resistant clothing.
- Businesses should follow the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) protocols to reduce workplace hazards.
- Having emergency safety equipment on standby in high-risk areas at all times.
Conclusion
Any form of burn can have very serious consequences. But, with the proper precautions, many workplace accidents in Las Vegas can be prevented. Employers should prioritize keeping employees safe to reduce the risk of burn injuries.
Guest writer
