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HomeMedia CentreClaim Compensation for a Thermal Injury at Work
Claim Compensation for a Thermal Injury at Work

Claim Compensation for a Thermal Injury 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.

What Evidence Do You Need to Obtain for Your Claim?

If you have been accidently burned at work and employer negligence was involved, you may be able to claim compensation for a thermal injury at work. These types of burns are commonly found in industries such as manufacturing, engineering and construction. However, if your employer or another third party was responsible, you may want to find out more about filing a personal injury claim.

A compensation claim is there to help you get your life back on track after being injured. But it’s important to know there is a strict three-year time limit from the date of injury, or from the date you became aware of the injury. If you are an apprentice and under 18, the three year time limit only starts on your 18th birthday.

Jefferies Claims can help as we partner with experienced workplace injury lawyers who offer a ‘No Win, No Fee’ option. You can also assess your case for free with our initial, no-obligation consultation.

What Is a Thermal Burn?

A thermal burn occurs when your skin or tissues come into contact with heat sources such as hot surfaces, steam, flames, or boiling liquids.

Burn injuries can vary from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns that require surgery and leave long-term scars. In the  workplace, thermal burns may result from inadequate safety measures, faulty equipment, or poor training.

Can You Claim Compensation for a Thermal Burn at Work?

Yes, you can often claim compensation if you suffer a thermal burn at work and it was someone else’s fault. Your employer has a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. This includes:

  • Supplying personal protective equipment (PPE) such as heat-resistant gloves or aprons.
  • Ensuring machinery and equipment are well maintained.
  • Training staff on safe handling of hot substances.
  • Implementing clear safety protocols to minimise risks.

However, if your employer fails to take reasonable steps and you suffer an injury, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.

What Evidence Do You Need to Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Evidence plays a critical role in securing compensation for a workplace thermal burn. The more proof you gather, the stronger your claim will be. Here’s the evidence you should obtain:

  1. Accident Report
    Report the accident and your injury to your employer immediately. Every workplace should have an accident book where you record details such as time, date, and how the incident happened.
  2. Medical Records
    Seek medical attention straight away, even if your burn looks minor. Your medical records will provide an official diagnosis and important evidence of the severity of your injury.
  3. Photographs of Injuries and Scene
    Take clear photos of your burns and the location where the accident occurred. These images can provide strong proof of unsafe working conditions or faulty equipment.
  4. Witness Statements
    If colleagues saw the incident, ask them to provide written or recorded statements. Independent witnesses strengthen your case significantly.
  5. CCTV Footage
    Some workplaces have surveillance cameras. Request a copy of the relevant footage, as this can be powerful evidence exactly how the injury occurred.
  6. Receipts and Financial Records
    Keep track of expenses such as travel to hospital appointments, prescription costs, or lost income due to time off work. These costs form part of your compensation claim.

It’s also important to document the impact of your injury by keeping a symptom diary or journal which provides detail and insight on a consistent basis. This strengthens medical records and notes.

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount you can claim depends on several factors, including:

  • Severity of the Burn – More serious burns that leave scars or require surgery attract higher compensation.
  • Impact on Daily Life – If the injury prevents you from working or carrying out normal, daily activities, the value of your claim increases.
  • Financial Losses – Lost wages, medical bills, and rehabilitation costs all contribute to your settlement.

Why Choose a Solicitor for Your Claim?

Making a personal injury claim can be complex. An solicitor who has solid experience in workplace injury can:

  • Assess the strength of your case.
  • Collect and present evidence effectively.
  • Negotiate with insurers for a fair settlement.
  • Represent you in court if necessary.

The lawyers we partner with offer No Win, No Fee agreements, meaning you only pay if your claim succeeds. This reduces financial risk and gives you confidence to pursue compensation.

FAQs on Claims for Thermal Burns

1. How long do I have to make a thermal burn compensation claim?
You usually have three years from the date of the accident to start your claim. Exceptions may apply for minors or individuals lacking mental capacity.

2. Can my employer dismiss me for making a claim?
No, this is a common concern when it comes to making a claim. It is illegal for an employer to dismiss you simply for making a personal injury claim. If they do, you could also pursue an unfair dismissal case.

3. Can agency workers or contractors make a claim?
Yes. If you suffered a thermal burn while working on a site, you can still claim if negligence caused your injury, even if you are not a permanent employee.

4. Do I need to go to court for a workplace burn claim?
Most claims settle out of court. Only a small percentage proceed to trial, and your solicitor will handle the process.

5. How long will it take to settle a thermal burn claim?
The timeline varies. Straightforward claims may settle within a few months, while more complex cases involving severe injuries can take a year or longer.

6. What if my workplace doesn’t have an accident book?
If your employer fails to keep an accident book, make a written record of the incident and send it to them by email or letter. This creates a paper trail to support your claim.

Start Your Claim Now

If you suffered a thermal burn at work, you may be entitled to compensation. With the right evidence, such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, you can build a strong case.

Our team will guide you through the claims process and we work with highly experienced lawyers who will assess your case. Call us for free at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Us Page to start your claim now.

 

Jefferies Claims is a claims management company. Jefferies Claims Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN:999104.

Jefferies Claims is a limited company registered in England and Wales under registered number company number 14178076. Registered office Suite 2, Part 5th Floor, Charter House, Woodlands Road, WA14 1HF.

We charge our solicitors for the marketing and operational services we provide and these costs are not passed on to our customers. We receive a fee for any introduction made to a law firm.

Where No Win No Fee service is offered typically customers pay 25% of the amount recovered to our solicitors, although this will be subject to your individual circumstances. If your claim is successful, you will be charged a fee of 25% including VAT. There may be a charge if you cancel your claim outside the 14-day cooling off period.

Please note that calls made to and from Jefferies Claims may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes.

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