How big is the threat of fire at your workplace?

Regardless of whether you work in the oil and gas business or another industrial workplace in San Antonio or other area in Texas, exposure to explosive and flammable materials will be one of the primary safety hazards. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, your employer is responsible for your health and safety on the job. However, if you prefer to play a role in your own welfare, you can learn how to deal with fire-related risks.

Fire prevention starts with an evaluation of the workplace and an assessment to identify potential fire hazards. The next step is to analyze the work areas to determine positions for placing fire extinguishers, machinery to monitor air quality, and other fire safety equipment. A thorough assessment can also identify the safest storage area for flammable liquids.

Worker education and safety training

Safety training is crucial in all industries, and where there are fire hazards, OSHA advises employers to provide first aid training to at least one person in each department. First aid provided immediately after a serious burn, while awaiting first responders, can make a significant difference to the ultimate outcome. According to the Mayo Clinic, running cold water over a burn can lessen the amount of swelling that occurs, and a loosely applied gauze bandage can protect badly burned skin.

Steps to take immediately after a burn incident

Learning to assess burns is crucial, and if you want to be the person to help co-workers who suffered burn injuries, you will need to do the following:

• In the event of any burn that is not minor, call for emergency workers.
• Check the burn victim’s vitals, such as his or her breathing and ability to move.
• Before deciding on the appropriate treatment, you must identify whether it is an electrical or a thermal burn.

Classify the type of burn

The severity of the burn will determine the kind of treatment the victim needs. The Mayo Clinic describes burn injuries as follows:

• First degree, which is superficial with damage no deeper than the outer layers of the skin.
• Second-degree burn injuries damage the deeper skin layers.
• Third-degree burns are severe and could be life-threatening. The damage goes through all the layers of the skin and the layers of fat and tissue below.

If you were the victim, how would you cope with the financial consequences?

With workers’ compensation insurance being optional for employers in Texas, you might have questions about your options to obtain financial relief to cover medical expenses and lost wages. Whether you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits or not, you might benefit from consulting with an attorney who has experience in fighting for the rights of injured workers.