Workplace First Aid for Treating Minor Burns

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Every employee should know how to administer basic burn first aid.

Whatever the conditions of your Rocky Mount, NC, workplace, there's always a chance of fire. A blaze would not only result in fire damage to the building and its contents, but employees could also suffer burns. All workplaces are required to have a well-stocked first aid kit. Every employee should know its location and how to administer basic burn first aid.

6 Things to Know About Treating Minor Burns

Here are some things to know about caring for a minor burn

1. Know the Characteristics of a Minor Burn

A minor burn typically includes redness that resembles a sunburn and is no bigger than 3 inches in diameter. There will be pain and possibly blistering, but it usually won't require a medical professional's help.

2. Cool

First, you'll need to cool the burn by applying a cool, wet compress or holding the burned area under cool running water. Make sure the water is not cold, though.

3. Remove Constrictive Items

Gently remove any constrictive items from the burned area (e.g., rings or other jewelry, belts). The site will probably swell, so these items need to be removed as soon as possible.

4. Apply a Moisturizer

When the burn is totally cool, apply a lotion (aloe vera is ideal). Just as fire damage can cause other materials to dry out, it can dry skin, so it's critical to prevent the area from getting too dry. Moisturizer will also make it less painful. Don't break blisters because they protect against infection. If a blister breaks, run water over the area and apply an antibiotic ointment.

5. Cover

Next, the affected area needs to be loosely covered with a sterile gauze bandage. This will protect the injury from germs and should minimize pain.

6. Provide Medication

The victim can take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed. Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol), ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) or naproxen sodium (e.g., Aleve) should help.

After first aid is complete and everyone is OK, fire damage restoration professionals should be called. They'll return your building to its preloss condition as soon as possible