25 fatigue 06182024

Vol.25 | No.25 | Week of 06-23-25

Date:

Consider taking a
course in first aid
for burns to learn
to differentiate &
treat the symptoms
of first-, second-, &
third-degree burns.

BURNS

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There are three kinds of burns: electrical burns, chemical burns, and heat burns.
The opportunity for any of these types of burns exists at any construction site.
Burns are usually painful and can become infected if not treated properly. Most
burns require professional medical attention.

Electrical burns can occur when a worker comes in contact with electricity. Entry
and exit wounds can be very deep with severe tissue damage. Chemical burns
are caused by contact with a strong acid or alkaline solution or other irritating
chemical. Heat burns are caused by flame, hot surfaces, hot liquids, and heat.
They are rated first, second, and third degree, with third-degree burns being the
most severe.

First aid treatment for electrical burns requires strict attention to detail. First,
make sure the source of electricity will not endanger you as well. Unplug the tool
or disconnect the current. Call for an ambulance at once. After you have done
that, check for breathing and heartbeat. Electricity can cause a person to go into
cardiac arrest. If necessary and if you are certified, begin artificial respiration and
CPR.

First aid for chemical burns starts with washing chemicals off the skin as quickly
as possible; if an emergency shower is not available, even a garden hose will
work. Avoid splashing the chemical in the victim’s face. Take off contaminated
clothing as quickly as possible. Try not to spread the chemical to other parts of
the body. Burns to the eyes should be flushed for a minimum of 20 minutes. Seek
professional medical treatment.

Minor heat burns may require only a cool wet compress. However, second- and
third-degree burns require prompt medical treatment. Begin first aid for second-
and third-degree burns by immersing the burn in cold water, then apply clean
sterile bandages. Seek emergency medical treatment at once for severe burns.
While you wait for help, keep the person comfortable and warm. If necessary
and if you are trained, administer CPR. Do not apply ointment, commercial burn
ointment, grease, or any home remedy.

You can prevent burn accidents several ways. Treat all electrical tools with care.
Wear the right personal protective equipment. Observe all posted signs. Read
labels or MSDSs before using a chemical. Don’t misuse gasoline. Keep combustible
materials away from sources of ignition. Avoid contact with high heat surfaces by
keeping guards and barriers in place.

Vol.23 | No.50 | Week of 12-10-24

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