As an oil field worker, you are probably aware of most dangers that impact your safety on the job. Burn injuries that arise from fires, chemical exposures, electrical issues and explosions are extremely common. Oil field accidents that cause burn injuries are not always avoidable or preventable. Take some time to review the following information on burn injuries that occur in oil field accidents.
First-degree burns
First-degree burns are mild. First degree burns rarely break the skin, though they cause redness, irritation, sensitivity and pain. Most oil workers with first-degree burn trauma experience no long-term side effects.
Second-degree burns
Burns that damage the primary and secondary layer of skin are second degree. This type of trauma is more than mild skin irritation. Second-degree burn symptoms include weeping or dry blisters and cracked skin, pain, burning and in some cases nerve damage.
Third-degree burns
Burns that damage the primary, secondary and deeper skin layers and tissues are third degree. Skin that has third-degree burn trauma often has a burnt color that may appear white and is extremely damaged. Third-degree burn victims often undergo multiple surgeries, skin grafts and other medical interventions to help them recovery.
Oil field burn injuries can lead to nerve damage, limb amputation, disfigurement and other types of serious trauma that interfere with their capacity to work and provide for themselves and their families. Immediate medical attention for all potential burn injuries, adhering to fire and workplace safety criteria and using appropriate fire prevention gear and equipment can minimize the occurrence and impact of oil field fires.