During a recent year in the Orlando area, 112 workers sustained injuries and one worker died from burns, scalds, and heat exposures. Floridas workers compensation statistics also include cold temperature-related injuries in this category.
Workplace burns occur due to several common causes.
Chemical burns: The Occupational Safety & Health Administrations (OSHA) investigative reports disclose burn injuries caused by nitric acid, chromic acid, hydrogen fluoride, sodium hydroxide, and even fertilizer.
Electrocutions: Electrical burns occur as a result of electrocutions due to exposed live lines or faulty equipment. Electrocution is one of the construction injuries included in OSHAs Constructions Fatal Four.
Electrical arc-flashes: Arc-flash burns occur when an electrical current flashover deviates from its path due to a problematic installation or failure. Arc-flash burns are often serious and sometimes fatal.
Hot work: Workers sustain burn injuries from hot slag while welding or burning during shipbuilding operations.
Restaurant accidents: Workers sustain scald injuries and severe burns from hot liquids, hot oils, and grills.
Explosions: Explosions occur when employees use volatile compounds, fuels, and materials in the workplace.