Chemical burn injury is different from other types of burns because usually there is no heat produced. Chemical burns are a result of a coming into contact with a reactive chemical like a strong acid or base. Cleaning solvents, industrial chemicals, and even normal household items can cause chemical burns. Symptoms depend on the type of chemical, but can include a burning sensation, redness around affected area, itching, bleaching of the skin, and darkening of the skin. The “burning” will continue until the chemical has been removed, or has changed its chemical makeup during the reactive process with your skin.

Chemical burn prevention

Prevention is the best form of treatment. All chemicals should be properly labeled and stored in a safe area when not in use. During use, proper safety measures including safety procedures and safety equipment/clothing should be used at all times. Employees should ensure that they are fully aware of the chemicals they are using, as well as any special instructions for first-aid should skin come in contact with the chemicals.

In the home, all chemical cleaners, bleaches, and other products should be kept away from pets and children. Again, protective clothing should be used when handling any type of chemical to avoid chemical burns.

Chemical burn treatment

Take note of any special treatment procedures for specific chemicals, but generally speaking, the chemical burn area should be thoroughly rinsed in cold water for at least 15 minutes. All clothes and jewelry that have come into contact with the chemical should be removed and disposed of. In cases where large areas of the body have been affected, the victim should be immersed in a cold shower, with clothes and jewelry removed after the victim is in the shower.

If the chemical is a powder substance like lime, the excess should be brushed or shaken off before the affected area is flushed with water. Those assisting should take every precaution not to get the chemical on themselves during the process.

Be aware that some chemical burns can be very painful and the victim may become “frenzied” or go into shock. Seek medication attention immediately if the victim shows signs of fainting, goes pale, or has trouble breathing.

If you or a loved one has experienced chemical burn injury on the job or as a result of negligence on the part of another person or people, you may be owed compensation for your injuries. Contact Jim S. Adler & Associates to find out for sure. Our team of personal injury lawyers has helped thousands of injury victims over the years including burn victims get the settlements they deserve to cover medical expenses, lost work time, and mental anguish. Click the link on this page to get a free case assessment from Jim S. Adler & Associates.

Alabama | Alaska | Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Connecticut | Delaware | Florida | Georgia | Hawaii | Idaho | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Kentucky | Louisiana | Maine | Maryland | Massachusetts | Michigan | Minnesota | Mississippi | Missouri | Montana | Nebraska | Nevada | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New Mexico | New York | North Carolina | North Dakota | Ohio | Oklahoma | Oregon | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | South Carolina | South Dakota | Tennessee | Utah | Vermont | Virginia | Washington | West Virginia | Wisconsin | Wyoming

Additionally, Jim S. Adler & Associates has offices at City Place Building, 2711 North Haskell Ave., Suite 2100 LB40, Dallas, Texas 75204-2887; Bank of America, 12605 East Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77015-5619 (serving Channelview, Texas); and San Pedro Plaza, 7330 San Pedro Ave., Suite 700, San Antonio, Texas 78216-6237.