How to Handle Burns and Scalds in the Workplace

How to Handle Burns and Scalds in the Workplace

Burns and scalds are serious workplace injuries that can occur unexpectedly, even in office environments. From accidents involving hot drinks to electrical mishaps, it’s essential that employees are prepared to act quickly to prevent further harm. In this blog, we’ll discuss the types of burns, how to treat them, and how to ensure your workplace is ready to handle these situations.

Understanding Burn Severity

Burns are classified into three main categories based on their depth and severity. The traditional terminology of first, second, and third-degree burns has evolved to more descriptive terms and avoids confusion:

  • Superficial Thickness Burns (formerly known as First-Degree Burns)
  • Partial Thickness Burns (formerly known as Second-Degree Burns)
  • Full Thickness Burns (formerly known as Third-Degree Burns)

Each type of burn requires a different treatment approach, which we will cover in detail. Understanding these categories is critical for appropriate first aid responses.

Related Reading: Key First Aid Supplies Every Office Should Have

Superficial Thickness Burns (First-Degree Burns)

Superficial thickness burns are the least severe type of burn. These burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and typically cause redness, swelling, and pain. The skin remains intact, and there are no blisters.

Common Causes:

  • Minor scalds from hot liquids
  • Sunburn
  • Brief contact with hot surfaces

Treatment:

  • Cool the burn immediately by running it under cool (not cold) water for at least 10 minutes. Cooling the burn helps to reduce tissue damage and provides pain relief (NHS Burns and Scalds Guide).
  • Do not apply ice directly to the burn, as it can cause further tissue damage.
  • Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing.
  • Over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol can help with discomfort.

Superficial burns usually heal within a week without scarring, though larger areas should still be monitored for infection.

Related Reading: What to Do in the First Five Minutes of a Workplace Emergency

Partial Thickness Burns (Second-Degree Burns)

Partial thickness burns are more severe and penetrate deeper into the skin, affecting both the outer layer (epidermis) and the underlying dermis. These burns cause intense pain, swelling, and blisters. The injured area may also appear wet or shiny due to the oozing of fluids.

Common Causes:

  • Hot liquids
  • Contact with fire or flame
  • Chemical burns

Treatment:

  • Cool the burn under running water for at least 20 minutes (NHS Burns and Scalds Guide). This helps to prevent further damage and reduces pain.
  • Do not pop blisters. Blisters help protect the underlying tissue from infection.
  • Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing or cling film, which can be loosely applied until professional medical help is available.
  • Seek medical attention for burns that cover a large area or are on sensitive body parts, such as the face or hands.

In workplaces with kitchens, hot equipment, or chemicals, it is essential that employees are well-trained in first aid, as these environments present higher risks for partial thickness burns.

Related Reading: How to Administer CPR: A Step-by-Step Guide

Full Thickness Burns (Third-Degree Burns)

Full thickness burns are the most severe, affecting all layers of the skin and potentially damaging tissues beneath the skin, including muscles and bones. The skin in the affected area may appear charred, white, or leathery. Despite the severity, these burns may not cause immediate pain due to nerve damage.

Common Causes:

  • Direct contact with fire or extreme heat
  • Electrical burns
  • Exposure to hazardous chemicals

Treatment:

  • Cool the full thickness burn with water for at least 20minutes.
  • Watch the casualty closely for signs of shock
  • Call emergency services immediately (999 in the UK). These burns require urgent medical intervention (NHS Full Thickness Burns).
  • Do not remove clothing stuck to the burn.
  • If the person is experiencing shock (pale, cold, clammy skin), keep them warm by covering them with a blanket and elevate their legs.
  • Cover the burn with a clean, sterile, non-stick dressing or cloth, but do not apply pressure to the wound.

For burns of this severity, immediate professional medical attention is essential to prevent shock, infection and further tissue damage.

How to Handle Scalds in the Workplace

Scalds, typically caused by hot liquids or steam, can range from superficial to full thickness burns depending on the temperature and duration of exposure.

Common Causes:

  • Spilled hot drinks
  • Steam from industrial equipment
  • Hot water taps

Treatment:
The treatment for scalds follows the same procedure as burns:

  1. Cool the affected area with clean, running water for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Remove jewellery or clothing near the burn, but only if it’s not stuck to the skin.
  3. Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing, and seek medical advice for larger scalds (NHS First Aid for Scalds).

Preventing Burns and Scalds in the Workplace

Prevention is always better than cure. Consider these proactive steps to minimise the risk of burns and scalds in your workplace:

  • Conduct regular risk assessments: Ensure all hot equipment and substances are properly managed and monitored.
  • Train your employees on first aid procedures for burns and scalds.
  • Provide adequate personal protective equipment (PPE): Use gloves, face shields, or other protective equipment where necessary.
  • Implement clear signage: Mark all hot surfaces and equipment clearly to remind employees of potential hazards.

By making safety a priority, you can significantly reduce the risk of burns and scalds in the workplace.

How Frontline Training Can Help

At Frontline Training, we offer comprehensive first aid courses that include burn and scald management as part of our curriculum. Whether it’s superficial thickness burns or full thickness injuries, our First Aid at Work training ensures your team knows how to respond effectively.

We also offer risk assessment consultations to help businesses tailor their first aid provisions, ensuring you have the right equipment and trained personnel in place to handle emergencies. Our courses cover everything from using sterile dressings to administering CPR, helping you ensure compliance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.


Prepare your workplace for any emergency by enrolling in a first aid course with Frontline Training. Book a course today and ensure your team has the skills needed to handle burns and scalds safely and effectively.