Work-related burns and corrosions are recognized as injuries that can result in mental and emotional distress.
If you suffer a burn or corrosion injury on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, no matter who was at fault for your injuries.
Types of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries are classified into four levels. First degree burns penetrate the outer layer of the skin, while second degree burns penetrate the inner layers of the skin. If a burn injury causes damage to every layer of skin, it is referred to as a third degree burn. If the injury reaches the deeper tissues of the muscles and bones, it is referred to as a fourth degree burn.
Corrosion Injuries
Corrosions affect the underlying layers of the skin, tissues, and muco-cutaneous surfaces of the victim. This type of injury may be caused by contact with acid, liquefactive necrosis, ischemia or infarction, or due to lack of blood supply to the tissues. Burns caused by chemical reactions or exposure to acids and harmful substances are known as corrosions.
A worker may suffer an injury from burns and corrosions for different reasons. For instance, a worker may come in direct contact with an extremely hot substance while performing a job duty or may accidentally catch on fire while working with a flammable liquid. Exposure to acids and chemicals may result in corrosions as well. Burns and corrosions are listed under traumatic injuries and disorders in the Occupational Injury and Illness Classification Manual (OIICS). The OIICS recognizes burns and corrosions as injuries that can result in mental and emotional distress.
Workers Exposed to Risk of Burns and Corrosions
The following workers are more likely to suffer injuries from burns and corrosions at the workplace:
- construction workers
- electricians and electrical workers
- manufacturing workers
- assembly line workers
- firefighters
- welders
- first responders
- scrap metal recycling workers
- restaurant workers
- police and security personnel
- road pavement workers
Common Injuries from Burns and Corrosions
Injuries resulting from burns and corrosions include:
- loss of limbs
- infection
- scarring and disfigurement
- emotional and mental distress
- skin cancer
Claiming Compensation for Work-related Burns and Corrosions
If you suffer burns and corrosions on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation, no matter who was at fault for your injuries. If your employer denies your claim, talk to a Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer to help protect your legal rights. Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300.