Many types of occupations require interactions with chemicals at work. This could include laboratory workers, salon workers, or workers who provide cleaning services. Employers can be liable for any injuries associated with chemical burns and liability may increase if employers have taken the appropriate steps to mitigate or prevent injuries.
Common workplace chemicals that can cause injuries include::
- Potassium hydroxide
- Sodium hypochlorite
- Calcium hypochlorite
- Ammonia
- Nitric acid
- Phosphoric acid
- Hydrofluoric acid
- Hydrochloric acid
- Muriatic acid
- Sodium hydroxide
Everyday items that can cause chemical injuries include:
- Concrete mix
- Metal cleaners
- Pool chlorinators
- Drain or toilet cleaners
- Bleach
- Hair and skin care products
Prevention, Education, and Treatment Available at Work
Employees should be using protective clothing or gear when handling these types of chemicals. Employers should provide gloves, protective face masks, safety goggles or glasses, and even aprons or to protect their employees’ skin from potential contact with the chemical.
Employees must be educated about the chemicals they are using and should be provided with a best-practices information sheet regarding the handling of chemicals. Employees should be aware of the chemical and how much is appropriate for the work they are performing.
Additionally, employers should provide equipment to treat chemical burns. For example, there should be first aid supplies readily available to employees, which includes burn cream, gauze, band-aids, and other protective coverings. In some circumstances, an eye wash station is appropriate. Employees must be educated on how to best use the eye wash station as well.
Employers who are negligent in educating, storing, or providing remediation measures for employees can be liable for punitive damages and pain and suffering associated with the burn. Chemical burns can be disfiguring and a significant source of pain, especially if the person is burned on the face. This can also be traumatic for the victim and the people around them who witnessed the burn.
Employee Damages Associated With Chemical Burns
Employers can help prevent these types of accidents and increased damages if they provide information in writing or post safety information in a prominent area for all employees to see and read. Written information must be provided in a way that is relevant for all or most employees. For example, if most employees speak another language, the information should be provided in that language.
West Chester Workplace Accident Lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Assist Victims of Workplace Injuries
If you or a loved one experienced an accident at work that caused your injuries, contact a West Chester workplace accident lawyer at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello. We provide guidance to determine the most important facts in your case and better understand whether your employer was at fault. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at (610) 892-4940. Located in Media, Pennsylvania, we serve workers throughout Montgomery County, Bucks County, Chester County, Lancaster, Norristown, Philadelphia, West Chester, Reading, Delaware County, and Pennsylvania.
