Skin burns in the workplace can have devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you’ve suffered a skin burn at work due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to claim compensation. So, how much can you claim for a skin burn at work? The amount varies depending on the severity of the burn, the impact on your life, and whether negligence can be proven. On average, payouts range from £1,500 to over £200,000.
In this guide, we’ll break down real examples of claim payouts, factors affecting compensation, legal rights, how to make a claim, and provide a free skin burn compensation calculator.
What Is a Skin Burn at Work?
A skin burn is tissue damage caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction. Workplace burns are particularly common in industries like:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Catering and food processing
- Cleaning services
- Healthcare and laboratories
Depending on the cause, burns are categorised into three levels:
- First-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin, causing redness and minor pain.
- Second-degree burns: Penetrate deeper, resulting in blisters, swelling, and more intense pain.
- Third-degree burns: Destroy both layers of skin and can damage underlying tissue, often requiring skin grafts and long-term treatment.
Read Also: Maximising Compensation: Tips for a Successful Personal Injury Claim
Common Causes of Skin Burns at Work
Some typical scenarios leading to skin burns in the workplace include:
- Chemical spills (e.g., in cleaning or manufacturing jobs)
- Thermal burns from hot equipment or steam
- Electrical burns from faulty wiring or equipment
- Radiation exposure in medical or laboratory settings
- Friction burns from moving machinery
Example of Skin Burn at Work Claims Payouts (UK Cases)
1. Chemical Burn in a Factory Worker
- Injury: Second-degree chemical burn on hands and forearms
- Cause: Failure to provide adequate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
- Payout: £27,500
2. Thermal Burn from Hot Oil in a Restaurant Kitchen
- Injury: Second- and third-degree burns on arms and chest
- Cause: Defective fryer with no warning signs
- Payout: £45,000 + loss of earnings
3. Electrical Burn in Construction
- Injury: Severe third-degree burn requiring multiple surgeries
- Cause: Poorly maintained electrical tools
- Payout: £160,000 (including pain, suffering, and future treatment)
4. Lab Technician Exposed to Radiation
- Injury: Mild burns and long-term skin sensitivity
- Cause: Inadequate safety training and shield use
- Payout: £8,000
How Is Compensation Calculated for Skin Burns?
The compensation payout is generally made up of two parts:
1. General Damages
Covers pain, suffering, and loss of amenity (impact on quality of life).
| Severity of Burn | Typical Payout Range |
|---|---|
| Minor (first-degree) | £1,500 – £6,000 |
| Moderate (second-degree) | £6,000 – £25,000 |
| Severe (third-degree) | £25,000 – £200,000+ |
2. Special Damages
This covers financial losses such as:
- Medical expenses (surgeries, medication)
- Loss of earnings
- Cost of care
- Travel expenses for medical appointments
- Home adjustments (if applicable)
Read Also: How To Apply For Workers Compensation Exemption in Florida
Free Skin Burn Compensation Calculator
Use this simple calculator to estimate your potential payout:
1. Select Burn Severity:
- Minor (First-degree)
- Moderate (Second-degree)
- Severe (Third-degree)
2. Enter Financial Losses (Optional):
- Loss of earnings: £____
- Medical bills: £____
- Travel costs: £____
Estimated Compensation = General Damages + Special Damages
Example:
- Moderate burn = £18,000
- Loss of earnings = £6,000
- Medical bills = £1,500
- Travel = £500
Total: £26,000
Legal Rights of Employees with Burn Injuries
UK employers are legally required to:
- Provide adequate PPE
- Conduct regular risk assessments
- Offer health and safety training
- Maintain equipment
- Report and investigate incidents
Failure to comply can make them liable for workplace injuries, including burns.
Employees have the right to:
- File for compensation without retaliation
- Receive statutory sick pay (SSP)
- Request workplace accommodations
Steps to Make a Skin Burn at Work Claim
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the incident to your employer and ensure it’s documented in the accident book
- Gather evidence (photos, witness statements, medical reports)
- Contact a solicitor who specialises in personal injury claims
- File your claim within 3 years of the injury (in most cases)
FAQs about Workplace Burn Claims
Can I still claim if I was partly at fault?
Yes. This is known as contributory negligence. Your compensation may be reduced based on your share of fault.
Do I need to go to court?
Not always. Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations.
Is No Win, No Fee available?
Yes, most personal injury solicitors offer No Win, No Fee arrangements.
How long does it take to get compensation?
Anywhere from a few months to a couple of years, depending on case complexity.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights and Get Help
Suffering a skin burn at work can be a life-changing experience. But if the injury resulted from employer negligence or unsafe working conditions, you have the legal right to seek compensation. Payouts vary significantly based on severity, but a well-prepared claim supported by medical evidence and legal expertise can help secure fair compensation.
If you’ve experienced a skin burn at work, don’t delay. Speak to a qualified personal injury solicitor and use our calculator to get an estimate today. Justice and financial support could be closer than you think.