Burn injuries can range from mild to catastrophic, depending on the circumstances. While some burns heal within days or weeks, others may leave behind permanent injuries, psychological damage and other effects. If your job has a higher rate of burn injuries, it’s important to understand what kind of legal options you may have.
Jobs with high risk and rates of burn injuries
Although everyone should take appropriate safety precautions, especially in the workplace, not all burn injuries are preventable. Certain jobs expose workers to a greater risk of burns, even if all safety procedures are followed to the letter.
While most of us think of hot surfaces and open flame as burn risks, working around electrical wires, chemicals and combustible products, like fuel, increase your risk of suffering an on-the-job burn injury.
High burn risk occupations include:
- Firefighters
- Electricians
- Construction workers
- Landscapers
- Food service workers
- Mechanics
- Janitorial workers
Employers are expected to provide workers with appropriate training, safety equipment and the tools you need to avoid burn injuries. They need to meet both Ohio Administrative Code and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. However, burn injuries can occur at many different workplaces—even those which might not be considered risky.
What to do if you suffer an on-the-job burn injury
If you suffer an on-the-job burn injury, even in a risky occupation, there are often legal options available. The first step is to seek medical treatment, either from emergency services or a Bureau of Workers’ Compensation-approved physician.
Next, report your injury to your workplace, and file a workers’ compensation claim. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be eligible for covered medical expenses and temporary or permanent disability wage benefits. Furthermore, if your employer violated specific safety requirements, you may be able to recover additional compensation from the BWC.
Depending on the individual circumstances of your accident, you may also have a claim against a third party. For example, if a third-party vendor negligently caused an electrical burn on a construction site, you may potentially file a personal injury claim against the company.
As you recover, keep records of your injuries, healing progress, medications prescribed and your pain levels. This information can help your attorney advocate for the maximum compensation possible under the law.
If you’ve suffered an on-the-job burn injury, the Law Offices of Tim Misny can help. Call today for a consultation, and find out what kind of legal options are available after your accident.
Discuss your claim with an Ohio workers’ compensation and personal injury attorney
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your workers’ compensation and personal injury claims. If you were burned on the job, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
