According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 15,000 American workers suffered burn injuries in a recent year. Burns are one of the most severe types of workplace injuries, and employers must follow safety regulations to prevent these injuries and protect their employees.
Safety Regulations to Prevent Workplace Burn Injuries
Safety regulations are in place nationally to protect workers. Additionally, many industries have their own unique sets of standards.
OSHA Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations in place to minimize the risk of workplace burn injuries. These regulations mandate that employers:
- Identify potential hazards
- Implement safety measures
- Provide training and personal protective equipment (PPE)
Compliance with OSHA guidelines creates a safer work environment and reduces the likelihood of burn injuries.
Specific Safety Standards
Handling heat, chemicals, and electricity requires adherence to specific safety standards:
- Heat – Use of heat-resistant gloves, clothing, and equipment to mitigate the risk of thermal burns
- Chemicals – Proper storage, labeling, and handling procedures to prevent chemical burns
- Electricity – Making sure all electrical equipment is properly insulated and grounded and employees are trained in safe electrical practices
Regular workplace inspections and hazard assessments can help employers identify and rectify potential dangers.
Employee Rights Regarding Burn Injuries
Employers in North Dakota have a legal duty to create a secure work environment for their employees. This includes conducting routine risk assessments and enacting control measures to reduce potential hazards. In turn, employees also have rights when it comes to safety around burn hazards.
Right to a Safe Workplace
Employees are entitled to a secure and safe work environment. This includes:
- Proper training
- Adequate PPE
- Clear safety protocols
Reporting Hazards and Injuries
Employees should report any hazards or injuries to their supervisors immediately. Employers are required to address reported hazards to prevent further incidents.
Legal Options for Injured Workers
Workers who are hurt while on the job have several legal options to help deal with the medical expenses and other challenges related to the injury. These include:
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Injured workers should follow these steps to file a workers’ compensation claim:
- Report the Injury to Your Employer Immediately – Timely reporting is crucial, as delays can complicate the process and may affect the outcome of a claim. Always inform your supervisor or HR representative as soon as a burn injury occurs.
- Seek Medical Care and Keep Records of All Treatments – It is important to visit a healthcare provider to formally document your burn injury. Keep detailed records of all visits, treatments, prescriptions, and any medical advice you receive. This documentation is vital for substantiating your claim.
- Submit a Claim Form for Workers’ Compensation to Your Employer – Complete the necessary paperwork provided by your employer or obtained from North Dakota’s workers’ compensation board. Provide all required information and submit it immediately to avoid delays in processing your claim.
Seeking Legal Advice
If your claim is denied or your injury is severe, you should seek legal advice right away. A lawyer can:
- Help You Throughout the Legal Process – Legal procedures can be complex and daunting. A lawyer can guide you through each step, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
- Fight for Fair Compensation – A lawyer will advocate on your behalf to secure the maximum benefits and compensation for your injuries and losses.
- Represent Your Interests – Hiring an attorney to help with your claim improves your chances of protecting your rights and helps you better negotiate with your employer and their insurance company.
Injured workers have the right to receive workers’ comp benefits that cover their medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation. Seeking help from a North Dakota burn injury lawyer will help you understand your rights and put you in the best position to protect them.
Call Our North Dakota Burn Injury Lawyers Today
If you want to explore your legal options after a work accident, contact the North Dakota burn injury lawyers at Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., for a consultation. We look forward to discussing your situation and helping you understand your legal rights.
