I got burned at work. Does workers’ comp pay for it, and what do I do first?

Step by step

Say you grab a sizzle plate at 7:40 p.m. and burn your palm (illustrative).

1. 1Cool it. MedlinePlus says to run cool water over a minor burn, not ice water, for at least 5 to 30 minutes, then cover it with a dry, sterile bandage or clean dressing.
2. 2Decide if it’s serious. MedlinePlus says to call 911 if the burn is about the size of your palm or larger, looks severe, is from chemicals or electricity, or you aren’t sure how serious it is.
3. 3Tell your manager the same shift. Say what happened, when, and who saw it. Ask how the restaurant wants the injury reported.
4. 4Write it down. Date, time, what you touched, who was there, and where you got care. Take a photo of the burn.
5. 5Find your state program. DOL’s directory lists each state’s workers’ compensation office and links to its website. Rules and deadlines are set by the state.

Not tax or legal advice. Names and times are made up. This isn’t medical advice either; if you aren’t sure how bad a burn is, get it checked.

Plain English

Who runs workers’ comp

The Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs runs four federal programs: the Federal Employees’ Compensation Program, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Program, the Federal Black Lung Program, and the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program. DOL says people injured on the job while working for private companies, or for state and local governments, should contact their state workers’ compensation board.

So for a restaurant job, your state’s program decides whether your burn is covered, what it pays, and how and when to file. DOL’s State Workers’ Compensation Officials page links to each state’s office.

First aid for a burn

MedlinePlus, from the National Library of Medicine, sorts burns into minor and major. Minor burns are first-degree burns anywhere, or second-degree burns less than 2 to 3 inches wide. Major burns include third-degree burns, larger second-degree burns, and second-degree burns on the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, or over a major joint. Major burns need urgent medical care.

• Minor burn, skin unbroken: cool water (not ice water) for at least 5 to 30 minutes, then a dry, sterile bandage or clean dressing. Protect it from pressure and rubbing.
• Don’t put oil, butter, ice, or home remedies on a severe burn, and don’t break blisters.
• Call 911 for a burn about the size of your palm or larger, a severe burn, a chemical or electrical burn, signs of shock, or if you aren’t sure.
• See a provider if a minor burn still hurts after 48 hours, or right away if you see signs of infection: pus, fever, more pain, red streaks, or swollen lymph nodes.

Reporting it at work

OSHA says workers have the right to use their rights under the law without retaliation, including reporting an injury. If you’re retaliated against, OSHA says to file a complaint as soon as possible and no later than 30 days. Workers also have the right to review records of work-related injuries and illnesses. You can reach OSHA at 1-800-321-6742.

To avoid the next burn, see OSHA’s advice in slips, burns and cuts.