Thermal burns are one of the most severe and painful injuries an employee can experience in the workplace. Whether from exposure to open flames, hot surfaces, or steam, these injuries can result in extensive medical treatment, time off work, and lasting physical or emotional damage. In Massachusetts, thermal burn injuries are covered under workers' compensation laws, ensuring that affected employees receive the necessary benefits and support to recover. This article provides a detailed overview of workers' compensation for thermal burns in Massachusetts, including the different types of benefits available and the process for filing a claim.

What Are Thermal Burns?

Thermal burns happen when the skin comes into direct contact with extreme heat. The source of this heat can include:

• Open flames
• Hot liquids or steam (scalds)
• Hot metals or surfaces
• Explosions involving heated gases

Thermal burns are classified into three categories based on severity:

1. First-degree burns: Affect the outer layer of the skin, causing redness and pain. This type of burn typically heals within a few days.
2. Second-degree burns: Extend into deeper layers of the skin, resulting in blistering, intense pain, and potential scarring.
3. Third-degree burns: Damage to each layer of the skin through to the underlying tissues. These burns often cause nerve damage, leading to reduced pain sensation at the injury site. Third-degree burns can require skin grafts and long-term medical care.

Common Causes of Thermal Burns in the Workplace

Certain industries have a higher risk of thermal burn injuries. Workers in construction, manufacturing, food service, and firefighting are especially vulnerable. Common causes of thermal burns in these environments include:

• Contact with hot machinery or equipment in manufacturing or industrial settings.
• Steam burns in food service environments, such as kitchens.
• Chemical explosions in laboratories or manufacturing facilities.
• Exposure to flames while welding, cutting, or soldering.
• Scalding liquids in restaurants, hospitals, or other places where large amounts of boiling water are handled.

Workers' Compensation Eligibility for Thermal Burns

In Massachusetts, workers who sustain thermal burns on the job are generally eligible for workers' compensation benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the injury. Workers' compensation covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. However, there are some important conditions:

• The injury must occur during the course of employment.
• You must report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, typically within a few days to avoid claim denial.
• You must file a workers' compensation claim to begin receiving benefits. The employer's insurance provider will then review the claim and determine compensation eligibility.

What Workers' Compensation Covers

In Massachusetts, workers' compensation benefits are designed to support employees who are temporarily or permanently unable to work due to a work-related injury. For thermal burns, workers may receive the following benefits:

1. Medical Coverage
   • Workers' compensation typically covers all necessary medical treatments related to the burn injury. This includes hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and specialized therapies such as physical or occupational therapy.
   • For more severe burns, compensation may include coverage for skin grafts, reconstructive surgeries, and long-term care.
2. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
   • If a worker is unable to work for more than five days due to a thermal burn injury, they may qualify for TTD benefits. These benefits typically provide 60% of the worker's average weekly wage.
   • The worker will continue receiving these payments until they are able to return to work or have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which means they have recovered as much as possible.
3. Permanent Disability Benefits
   • For workers who suffer long-term or permanent damage, such as severe scarring or nerve damage, permanent disability benefits may be available.
   • Massachusetts allows for compensation for permanent disfigurement or loss of function in cases where thermal burns cause lasting physical damage.
4. Partial Disability Benefits
   • Workers who can return to work but can't perform their previous duties due to their injury may be eligible for partial disability benefits. These benefits provide a portion of the difference between the worker's pre-injury and post-injury wages.
5. Vocational Rehabilitation
   • Workers who are not able to return to their previous job due to the severity of their burns may qualify for vocational rehabilitation services. These services help retrain the worker for a new job or career that accommodates their limitations.

How to File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Massachusetts

Filing a workers' compensation claim in Massachusetts follows a specific process. Here's what employees should do if they suffer a thermal burn at work:

1. Report the Injury
   • Tell your employer as soon as the injury occurs. Provide details about how, when, and where the injury happened.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
   • Even if the burn appears minor, seeking quick medical attention is crucial to avoid potential complications. Additionally, a medical assessment is essential for properly documenting the injury.
3. File the Claim
   • Your employer will notify their workers' compensation insurer of your injury. The insurer will access the claim and decide if you are eligible for benefits.
4. Follow the Treatment Plan
   • Adhere to the medical treatment recommended by your doctor to ensure you receive the full benefits of your workers' compensation.

Massachusetts Workers' Compensation Statistics

Thermal burns are just one of many workplace injuries that Massachusetts workers may face. Based on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 75,000 non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported in the state in 2022, with burns being a significant category in high-risk industries.

Conclusion

Workers' compensation for thermal burns in Massachusetts provides vital support for employees who suffer these painful and debilitating injuries. Whether through medical care, lost wage compensation, or rehabilitation services, the state's workers' compensation system ensures that workers can recover with the necessary resources. If you or a loved one have experienced a thermal burn in the workplace, understanding your rights and the benefits available can make the recovery process smoother.

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Workers Compensation Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in a work accident, don’t go at it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury in the workplace.

Contact us now for a free legal review.