Introduction
Burns and scalds are among the most painful workplace injuries and can leave lasting scars or disabilities. If your accident was caused by unsafe working conditions or lack of protective equipment, you may be able to claim compensation.
This page explains what burns and scalds are, when employers are responsible, what evidence supports a claim, and how much compensation you could receive.
At a glance
- Around 600 serious burn injuries were reported under RIDDOR in 2022/23, including chemical and heat-related burns requiring hospital treatment (Source: WAAC analysis of the HSE RIDDOR data published 2024)
- Burns are caused by dry heat, electricity, friction or chemicals, while scalds are caused by hot liquids or steam.
- Employers must provide training, safe systems of work and protective equipment.
- Compensation can cover pain and suffering, treatment costs, lost earnings and care needs.
- You usually have three years from the date of the accident to begin a claim.
Get treated the same day and report your injury. Take photos of the cause and the burn as it heals. Keep first aid and clinic details. Simple records like these can help your claim.
John Kushnick
Legal Operations Director (NAL)
Classification of burns and scalds
Burns and scalds are tissue injuries caused by extreme heat, chemicals, electricity or radiation. Severity is classified in degrees:
- First degree: superficial damage causing redness and pain.
- Second degree: deeper injury with blistering and risk of infection.
- Third degree: full thickness burns damaging skin, nerves and sometimes underlying tissue.
Common workplace causes include hot machinery, boiling liquids, chemical splashes and electrical faults. For medical guidance see NHS: Burns and scalds.
Am I eligible to claim?
You can usually claim if:
- Your burn or scald injury happened at work in the last three years, and
- Employer negligence (such as poor training, faulty equipment or lack of PPE) caused or worsened your injury, and
- Medical evidence confirms the injury is linked to the accident.
If you are unsure, see Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation usually has two parts:
- General damages: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity. Burn and scald compensation ranges vary depending on severity, whether surgery is required, and whether there is permanent scarring or psychological trauma.
- Special damages: financial losses such as private treatment, skin graft costs, therapy, scar camouflage, prescription and travel expenses, lost wages, future loss of earnings, and ongoing care.
Keep receipts for medical expenses and payslips for lost earnings to support your claim.
When is my employer responsible?
Employers have duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. They must:
- Carry out risk assessments for heat, chemicals, and hot liquids.
- Provide suitable PPE such as gloves, aprons, visors or face shields.
- Ensure machinery and equipment are maintained safely.
- Train staff in safe handling of hot substances and emergency first aid.
If PPE was missing or defective, see Inadequate PPE injury claims. For chemical-related injuries, see COSHH regulations explained.
Employment status and burns/scalds at work
A claim is typically possible regardless of contract type. See how employment status affects your position:
Evidence that strengthens a claim
- Hospital and GP records describing the burn or scald and treatment received.
- Photographs of the injury and accident scene.
- Accident book entries and incident reports.
- Witness statements from colleagues.
- PPE maintenance records or safety inspection reports.
See How to gather evidence after a work accident for more detail.
Time limits for burn and scald claims
You normally have three years from the date of the accident or the date you realised your injury was linked to your work (the “date of knowledge”). Exceptions apply if you were under 18 at the time or lack capacity. See How long do I have to start an injury claim.
FAQs
New to claims? Start with our work injury claim guide, or see the full work injury claim FAQs.
Can I claim if I caused the accident myself?
You may still be able to claim if employer failings contributed. Compensation may be reduced for contributory negligence. See What is contributory negligence?.
What if I only suffered minor burns?
Yes, minor burns can still form the basis of a claim if caused by negligence. Compensation levels will reflect severity and recovery time.
Do I need to attend a medical appointment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will assess your injury, scarring and prognosis. See What happens at a medical appointment.
Have you been injured at work?
If you have been injured at work in the last 3 years, you may be able to claim financial compensation.
Find out more about making a work accident claim:
- Do you qualify?
- How much compensation could you get?
- How does No Win, No Fee work?
Read more: Work accident claim guide
Our work injury advisors will:
- Offer free, impartial advice
- Explain how No Win, No Fee works
- Recommend the right solicitor
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon
External references
- HSE: Burns and scalds at work - provides guidance on preventing burns and scalds in the workplace, including employer safety responsibilities.
- NHS: Burns and scalds - offers information on the treatment and recovery process for burns and scalds sustained in workplace incidents.
- Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 - outlines requirements for employers to provide PPE to protect against burns and scalds at work.
- GOV.UK: Compensation after an accident or injury - explains the process for claiming compensation for burns and scalds sustained in workplace accidents.