Injured by a Steam Hose at Work

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

How to Make a Personal Injury Claim

If you have been injured by a steam hose at work, you may want to find more on claiming compensation. Steam hoses injuries in the workplace may cause severe harm, leaving long term physical and financial consequences.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reported it fined a chemical company £100,000 after an employee suffered burns while working with a steam hose cleaning a process water tank. Subsequently, the HSE found the nozzle of the hose was unsafe and that the company had failed to maintain its equipment properly.

If employer negligence caused your steam or other burn injuries at work, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. However, it is important to know that you generally have three years in which to file a claim/

What Is a Steam Hose Injury at Work?

Industries such as manufacturing, food processing, cleaning, and construction commonly use high pressure clean hoses. While these tools serve important purposes, they can pose serious dangers if employees handle them incorrectly. Steam hoses injuries may include:

• Severe burns: Steam can cause first, second, or third-degree burns instantly on contact.
• Scalding injuries: Even brief exposure to hot steam can damage skin and tissue.
• Eye injuries: Steam or hot water from a hose can cause permanent eye damage.
• Slips and falls: Escaping steam may create wet, slippery floors, leading to accidents.

These injuries are not just painful, they may result in time off work, medical bills, and long-term rehabilitation needs.

Employer Negligence and Safety at Work

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers must ensure the health and safety of their employees. They must maintain equipment, train staff properly and carry out risk assessments.  However, if an employer fails to meet these obligation an injures you as a result, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Key points:

• Employers must provide proper training and protective equipment.
• Equipment must be regularly maintained and checked.
• Negligence or failure to follow safety regulations can make your employer liable.

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

If you’ve been injured by a steam hose at work, you can claim if:

1. The injury was caused by someone else’s negligence
   This could be your employer, a colleague, or a third-party contractor responsible for maintenance.
2. You were working at your normal workplace
   Even injuries occurring off-site, during work duties, or while using company equipment can qualify.
3. The injury caused physical or financial damage
   Compensation is typically calculated based on medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain, suffering, and long-term care costs.

How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?

The legal time limit for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. For example, if you were scalded by a steam hose on January 1, 2025, you would need to start your claim by January 1, 2028.

However, there are exceptions:

• If the injured person is under 18, the three-year period starts on their 18th birthday.
• Alternatively, the three-year period may start from when the injury is diagnosed if the injury develops gradually or the full extent of the injury is not immediately known

It’s important to act promptly.  Therefore, ensure evidence is preserved and your claim is strengthened by taking action.

What To Do Immediately After an Accident at Work?

Taking the right steps straight after your injury are crucial for a successful personal injury claim:

1. Seek medical attention
   Get checked by a doctor, even if the injury seems minor. Medical records are essential evidence in your claim.
2. Report the incident
   Notify your employer immediately and make sure the accident is logged in the workplace accident book.
3. Document the scene
   If possible, take photos of the equipment, injuries, and the area where the accident occurred.
4. Gather witness statements
   Colleagues who saw the accident can provide evidence of negligence.
5. Keep records of financial losses
   Save receipts for medical bills, travel costs, and proof of lost wages.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim for a Workplace Injury

1. Contact a Specialist Personal Injury Solicitor

We work with solicitors who specialise in work injury claims. In addition, they also offer No-win, No-fee agreements, meaning you won’t pay unless your claim is successful.

2. Initial Consultation and Evidence Review

Your solicitor will assess whether your claim is viable. They’ll review medical records, witness statements, and safety reports to build a case.

3. Filing the Claim

After gathering sufficient evidence, you solicitor files a claim against the responsible party – usually be your employer or their insurer.

4. Negotiation or Court Proceedings

Most claims settle out of court through negotiation. But, if the parties cannot reach a a fair settlement, your case may go to court.

5. Receiving Compensation

Compensation takes into account the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life and any financial losses and typically covers:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Future care or rehabilitation costs

Common Challenges in Steam Hose Injury Claims

• Disputes over negligence: Employers may argue that you were responsible or did not follow safety procedures.
• Delayed reporting: Failing to report the accident promptly can weaken your case.
• Incomplete evidence: Without photos, medical records, or witness statements, proving negligence can be difficult.

Working with a solicitor can help overcome these challenges and maximise your compensation.

FAQs on How to Claim for Burn Injuries at Work

Q1: Can I make a personal injury claim for a steam hose injury at work?
A: Yes. So, if your injury was caused by negligence at work, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Q2: How long do I have to claim for a workplace steam hose injury?
A: You generally have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. Exceptions apply for minors or injuries that develop over time.

Q3: What types of injuries can a steam hose cause?
A: Common injuries include severe burns, scalds, eye injuries, and slips or falls due to wet surfaces created by escaping steam.

Q4: Do I need a solicitor for a steam hose injury claim?
A: While not mandatory, a specialist personal injury solicitor can increase your chances of success and often work on a no-win, no-fee basis.

Q5: How is compensation calculated for a steam hose injury?
A: Compensation considers the severity of your injury, long-term impact, pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and future care costs.

Q6: What should I do immediately after a steam hose injury at work?
A: Seek medical attention, report the incident to your employer, document the scene, gather witness statements, and keep records of expenses.

Contact Us

Being injured by a steam hose at work is serious, but you have legal rights to compensation if your injury was caused by negligence. Therefore, acting quickly, gathering evidence, and seeking expert legal advice are essential steps in making a successful personal injury claim. Our friendly team can guide you through the process.

To discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly team.