Chemical Burn Claims

A chemical burn can be an excruciating injury that could lead to disfigurement and disability. Many chemical burn injuries occur within the workplace, and industries like construction, agriculture and manufacturing are particularly at risk.

Employers have a legal duty to protect their workers from injuries within the workplace. If you have suffered from a chemical burn, you may be entitled to compensation if your employer or another third party were to blame.

If you want to find out whether you can start a chemical burn claim, do not hesitate to call 0800 470 0474 today to speak to a legal adviser. They will answer any questions you may have and guide you through the claims process. You could also use our online claim form to request a call back.

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Table of Contents

• What is a chemical burn?
• Types of burns
• Symptoms of a chemical burn injury
• Potential consequences of chemical burns
• Who is at risk of a chemical burn injury?
• Can I make a chemical burn claim?
• Employer duty of care to prevent a chemical burn at work
• What accidents at work could cause chemical burns?
• Can I make a chemical injury claim as a member of the public?
• Evidence to support a chemical injury compensation claim
• Time limits to make a chemical burn injury claim
• How much compensation can I claim for a chemical burn?
• Do your personal injury solicitors offer a no win no fee service?

What is a chemical burn?

A chemical burn injury happens when a harmful chemical comes into direct contact with a person’s skin, eyes, or other body tissues. These injuries can vary in severity, from mild irritation to severe burns that damage multiple layers of tissue. The extent of the injury depends on factors like the type and concentration of the chemical, the duration of contact, and the affected area of the body.

They can occur through accidents, spillages, poor training or ineffective personal protective wear. Some of the most common types of substances that lead to a chemical injury claim include:

• Sodium hydroxide – used in industrial cleaning, soap and detergent production, and food processing
• Sulphuric acid – used in fertilisers, batteries, and detergents
• Nitric acid – used in fertilisers, explosives, metallurgy, photography and dye production
• Phosphoric acid – used in the food and beverage industry as an acidulant in soft drinks and to remove rust from metals
• Ammonia – used in various applications, including refrigeration, cleaning agents, and the production of fertilisers

These chemicals are found in numerous processes and manufacturing methods as well as in everyday items in the home. Domestic items are typically produced with much safer levels of such chemicals, but they can still cause burn injuries. Industrial products are likely to be stronger and, therefore, more harmful if accidents occur.

Some of the everyday products that contain dangerous chemicals and are used regularly by many people include the following:

• Bleach
• Detergents
• Car battery acids
• Fertilisers
• Concrete
• Industrial cleaners
• Dentistry fluids

You might be entitled to chemical burn compensation if you or a loved one suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence.

Types of burns

You could suffer a chemical burn through various means, including:

• Ingestion. Chemical burns due to ingestion happen when a person swallows a harmful chemical. Ingested chemicals can damage the lining of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, and stomach, leading to chemical burns in these areas.
• Inhalation. Inhalation of chemical fumes, gases, or airborne particles can lead to chemical burns in the respiratory tract. These can occur in industrial accidents, fires involving hazardous materials, or exposure to toxic gases.
• Skin contact. This is one of the most common ways chemical burns occur. It happens when a corrosive substance comes into direct contact with the skin. Skin burns can occur in industrial settings, during chemical handling, or even at home when using household chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners.
• Injection. These burns can occur with the misuse of certain medications, drugs, or other harmful substances. The injected chemical can cause damage to the surrounding tissues and skin. They can happen in healthcare settings when medication is administered improperly or in substance abuse cases.

Burns are categorised into different types based on the severity of the injury and the depth of tissue affected:

• First-degree burns. These superficial burns affect only the top layer of the skin. The injury site can appear red, dry, painful and without blisters.
• Second-degree burns. These burns damage both the epidermis and the layer beneath it (dermis). They often result in blistering, severe pain, redness, and swelling. Second-degree burns can be due to hot liquids, flames, or chemical exposure.
• Third-degree burns. Also known as full-thickness burns, these are the most severe. They damage the epidermis and dermis and may extend into deeper tissues, including muscles and bones. Third-degree burns often appear charred, white, or leathery. These burns may not be as painful initially due to nerve damage.
• Fourth-degree burns. These burns extend deeper into the body, affecting muscles, tendons, and bones. They are severe injuries and can be life-threatening.

The amount of compensation you could secure in a personal injury claim will depend on the type and severity of the burn you sustained.

Symptoms of a chemical burn injury

Depending on the severity of the injury sustained, a chemical burn can lead to multiple symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms presented in chemical burn injury claims include:

• Immediate and intense pain at the site of contact with the chemical;
• The affected area may become red or flushed;
• Swelling is a typical response to chemical irritation and can be significant depending on the severity of the burn;
• Blisters that can vary in size and may contain clear fluid;
• In some cases, the skin at the burn site may peel or slough off, exposing underlying tissue;
• The skin may change colour, appearing darker or lighter than the surrounding skin;
• Severe chemical burns can lead to the development of ulcers or open sores at the burn site;
• Healing from a chemical burn injury may result in scarring, which can be disfiguring, especially in severe cases;
• If chemicals are inhaled, they can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing;
• Chemical burns to the eyes can cause symptoms like redness, pain, blurred vision, excessive tearing, or even loss of sight;
• Ingesting or swallowing certain chemicals can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain;
• In severe cases, exposure to certain toxic substances can lead to systemic symptoms, including dizziness, weakness, confusion, seizures, or even loss of consciousness.

If you suffer a chemical burn, it is essential to seek medical help. The type of substance involved and the extent of the injury will determine the appropriate treatment. While waiting for medical care, rinse the affected area with cool running water for at least 20 minutes. That can help flush out the chemicals and minimise damage.

Potential consequences of chemical burns

A chemical burn accident can have a wide range of immediate and long-term consequences, such as:

• Tissue damage. Chemical burns can cause immediate damage to the skin, muscle and underlying tissues.
• Scarring. Healing from burn injuries often results in scarring, which can affect your appearance and mobility.
• Contractures. These refer to the tightening and shortening of the skin, muscles, or other tissues at the injury site.
• Infection. Open wounds or ulcerations are susceptible to diseases that can delay healing and lead to more extensive tissue damage.
• Functional impairment. Severe burns can impair the function of affected body parts. For example, burns on the hands can affect dexterity, while a chemical burn on the face can impact your vision.
• Psychological impact. Chemical burns can be extremely distressing and have a significant psychological effect. You may experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Long-term health issues. Burn injuries may lead to chronic pain, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing daily activities.
• Respiratory problems. Inhalation of chemical fumes or gases can lead to respiratory issues, such as airway irritation, pneumonitis and bronchitis.
• Systemic effects. Certain chemicals can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to internal organs, neurological problems, or even systemic toxicity.
• Disability. In severe cases, chemical burns can result in permanent disabilities that affect a person’s ability to work, engage in daily activities, or maintain their quality of life.
• Death. While relatively rare, highly severe burns can be life-threatening.

If you are entitled to chemical injury compensation, your claim will include all the effects of the injury on your daily life.

Who is at risk of a chemical burn injury?

Anyone who works with or near chemicals is at risk of sustaining a chemical burn injury at work. This risk is considerably increased if regulations aren’t correctly observed. However, some industries and employees are at a higher risk because of their exposure and frequency of use of chemicals, such as:

• Construction. The construction industry often involves working with various chemicals, such as solvents, adhesives, paints, and concrete mixtures. Proper handling and protective measures are crucial to prevent injuries.
• Manufacturing. Manufacturing plants and engineering facilities deal with various chemicals, from corrosive acids to industrial solvents. Workers in these industries may suffer an injury while operating machinery or handling raw materials.
• Science laboratories. Laboratories use numerous chemicals for experiments and analysis, such as sulphuric and nitric acid. Scientists and technicians must be well-trained in safely handling chemicals and understanding the associated risks.
• Cleaning. Cleaners work directly with a wide range of chemicals, including disinfectants, bleaches and solvents. Proper training and the use of protective equipment are vital to reduce the risk of chemical exposure and burns.
• Agriculture and farming. There can be many causes of chemical burns in these industries, such as fertilisers and pesticides. Additionally, exposure to corrosive substances can occur during the maintenance of agricultural equipment.

Employers must carry out regular assessments and adhere to the health and safety at work regulations as they are legally required to minimise risks. If they fail to do so, workers are entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation.

The compensation awarded in chemical burn claims can support a victim through recovery. Settlement awards aim to cover lost income, the cost of treatments, physical and emotional implications and the expenses associated with care.

Can I make a chemical burn claim?

Yes. You could claim compensation if someone else’s negligence caused you to sustain chemical burns. The easiest way to find out if you are entitled to claim is through a free consultation with one of our personal injury partner solicitors. As a general rule, you can start a burn injury compensation claim if:

• Another party, such as your employer or a manufacturer, owed you a duty of care
• They breached their duty of care
• Their negligence has led to an accident or incident
• You’ve suffered a chemical burn as a result within the last three years

Your solicitor will establish a breach of duty by referring to the relevant legislation. Based on your case and the circumstances of your injury, this could be:

• The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, if your injury was due to a breach of duty from your employer
• The Consumer Protection Act 1987, if you sustained chemical burns due to a defective or unsafe product
• The Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, if you sustained an injury while on someone else’s property due to hazardous substances or conditions

If your solicitor thinks you have the right to make a claim, they will offer you a no win no fee* service and help you gather evidence to secure the maximum compensation possible.

Employer duty of care to prevent a chemical burn at work

Employees who sustain a chemical injury at work may be entitled to claim against their employer. That will be the case if it can be proven that the employer breached their duty of care, which caused the injury.

There are several pieces of legislation and guidelines that employers are legally required to follow to protect their staff and prevent potentially dangerous chemicals from causing injuries. The legislation includes:

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

This Act sets out an employer’s general responsibilities to their staff. The Act aims to ensure adequate health and safety considerations are made in the workplace. It includes the employer’s duty to conduct regular risk assessments and implement adequate safety measures to minimise dangers.

The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)

The guidelines in this legislation aim to protect human health and the environment from the risks that chemicals can pose. REACH promotes the responsible use of chemicals and encourages employers to substitute hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002

This Act offers more detailed guidelines on using, storing and managing dangerous chemicals and substances. Under these regulations, employers are legally required to:

• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and evaluate potential hazards related to chemicals used in the workplace;
• Provide staff with PPE, such as gloves, safety goggles and masks;
• Store, transport, and maintain chemicals safely. These should be appropriately labelled, and their containers should be in good condition;
• Clean up after the use of substances;
• Give thorough training to employees on the use, handling and maintenance of dangerous substances;
• Have effective emergency response plans in place for chemical spills, leaks, or accidents;
• Carry out regular inspections and maintenance of equipment and storage areas;
• Maintain records of chemical safety data sheets (SDS), training sessions, risk assessments, and incidents related to chemical exposure.

You may be able to claim against your employer if they breached any of their duties and caused a chemical burn accident at work. To find out if you could be entitled to compensation, call 0800 470 0474 today to speak to a legal adviser.

What accidents at work could cause chemical burns?

Some of the most common causes of chemical burns at work include:

• Spills and leaks. Accidents involving the spillage or leakage of corrosive or caustic chemicals may occur in factories, chemical manufacturing plants, or during the transportation of chemicals.
• Incorrect handling. Mishandling of chemicals, such as improper storage, mixing, or disposal, can lead to chemical burns.
• Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE). Inadequate or improper use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves or goggles, can increase the risk of chemical burns.
• Equipment failures. Malfunctions or failures of equipment used to contain or transport chemicals can expose workers to the risk of chemical burns.
• Accidents during maintenance. Chemical burns can occur when performing maintenance on machinery or systems that involve contact with chemicals.
• Fire and explosions. Chemical burns can be a secondary result of fires or explosions in industrial settings where flammable or reactive chemicals are present.
• Exposure to unknown substances. Sometimes, workers may unknowingly come into contact with hazardous chemicals, especially when dealing with unlabelled or improperly labelled containers.
• Transportation accidents. Workers involved in transporting chemicals may be at risk of chemical burns in the event of accidents, such as chemical spills or vehicle collisions.
• Lack of training. Inadequate training and awareness regarding chemical hazards can lead to accidents resulting in chemical burns.

If your employer has failed to take reasonable measures to keep you safe at work, you could make a chemical injury claim.

Can I make a chemical injury claim as a member of the public?

You could also claim for chemical burns if your injury happened on public premises due to someone else’s negligence. These premises may include shops, restaurants, car parks or supermarkets. It can also refer to places like pavements, playgrounds and other spaces managed by the local council.

Under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, businesses and property owners have specific responsibilities to prevent chemical burns. These duties include:

• Regularly inspect the premises for hazards, including chemicals, and promptly address any dangers.
• Ensure proper storage and labelling of chemicals.
• Provide adequate warning signs or notices when hazardous chemicals are present or when certain areas should be avoided.
• Take additional precautions when children are likely to visit, as they may be less aware of chemical dangers.
• Have proper procedures in place for responding to chemical spills or accidents.
• Provide access to first aid and emergency services when needed.

If you were injured due to a breach of these duties, you could be eligible to make a chemical burn claim. A personal injury solicitor can let you know whether you have a valid case and help you seek compensation.

Evidence to support a chemical injury compensation claim

If you want to claim compensation for a chemical burn, you must be able to prove how your injury occurred and how it has affected your life. Your solicitor will work with you to help you gather all the evidence you need, which could be:

• Visual evidence. Take photographs of the accident scene and what caused you to suffer a chemical burn injury before anything is removed or replaced. You can also use pictures of the injury and recovery process to prove the extent of the damage you suffered.
• Witness statements. Statements from anybody who saw how your accident happened or how it has affected your life can help strengthen your case, especially if the other side denies liability.
• Accident reports. All workplaces and businesses must keep an accident report book. You should inform the responsible party about your incident as soon as possible and ask for a copy of the report. It should include the date, time, location and details of your accident.
• CCTV footage. If your accident was recorded on safety cameras, you can request a copy of the footage. Try to do this as soon as possible, as these recordings are usually deleted quickly.
• Medical records. You should have your injuries checked by a medical professional even if you suffer a minor chemical burn. That will ensure your wounds are properly treated and will not get worse. If you decide to claim, your medical record will prove the nature and extent of your injuries.
• A diary of events. Write down everything you remember about your accident. You should note how your injuries have affected your work and daily life.
• Police reports. If you suffered a chemical burn following an acid attack, you should report it to the police, preferably within 24 hours. You will need a crime reference number to start a claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
• Financial records. Keep evidence of all the losses and expenses you incurred due to your injury, such as lost wages or prescriptions. These could be receipts, invoices, bank statements or payslips.

Your solicitor will gather everything you need to start legal proceedings and help you claim the chemical burn compensation you deserve.

Time limits to make a chemical burn injury claim

There are strict time limits to make a chemical burn injury claim. Under the Limitation Act 1980, the limitation date is three years, starting from the date of your accident. After these three years, your case will become time-barred, and the court will no longer accept it as valid.

There are several exceptions to this time limitation date:

• In the case of children accident claims, the time limit begins when they are 18 years old. Afterwards, they will have until their 21st birthday to start a claim. A parent or legal guardian could claim compensation for a child injured by a chemical burn at any time.
• There is no claim limitation date if the injured party lacks the mental capacity to start legal proceedings. This could be due to a condition such as Down syndrome or Alzheimer’s. A litigation friend could claim on their behalf.
• If you lost a loved one due to severe burns, you could start a claim within three years after their death.
• If you suffered an injury while working in the military, you have seven years to claim compensation for your injuries through the AFCS.
• The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority has a two-year time limit for claiming following a criminal assault.

Although three years might seem like a long time, you should start your claim as soon as possible. That will make it easier for you to remember all the details of your accident and give your solicitor enough time to build a strong case.

How much compensation can I claim for a chemical burn?

The amount you could receive if you claim compensation following a chemical burn will depend on several factors, such as:

• The type and severity of your injuries
• The circumstances of your accident
• Whether you were partially to blame for the incident
• Your financial losses
• The long-term effects of your injury

There are two elements to any personal injury claim, and these are:

General damages cover the pain, suffering, and loss of amenities caused by the injury. These could include:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional and psychological trauma
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Reduced quality of life
• Inability to pursue a hobby
• Loss of a unique career

Special damages cover the financial losses caused by the injury and may include:

• Loss of earnings and earning capacity
• Cost of prescriptions and private treatments, such as cosmetic surgery
• Physical therapy and counselling
• Travel expenses to medical appointments
• Cost of care and help with daily tasks, even if provided by friends or family

Your solicitor will be thorough in assessing all the ways in which your injury has affected you to secure the maximum compensation on your behalf. According to the guidelines published by the Judicial College, you could receive the following awards for general damages:

• £5,320 to £12,590 for a chest injury caused by toxic fumes without a permanent effect on lung function
• £9,110 to £30,090 for a chemical burn on face causing significant scarring
• £29,780 to £97,330 for very severe facial scarring with significant psychological impact
• £2,370 to £7,830 for minor chemical burn scarring to other body parts
• £7,830 to £22,730 for more severe scarring to other parts of the body
• Over £104,830 for significant burns covering more than 40% of the body

Do your personal injury solicitors offer a no win no fee service?

If you have a valid case, the solicitors we work with will provide you with a no win no fee service. This service allows you to start a claim regardless of your financial situation and without worrying about financial risks. You do not have to pay anything upfront for legal representation, and your solicitor only gets a success fee if they win your case. Otherwise, you do not pay them anything.

If you make a no win no fee claim, you do not have to worry about legal expenses either. Your solicitor will make sure you have After the Event (ATE) insurance, which will cover all your costs and disbursements if your claim fails, such as:

• Police and medical reports
• Court and counsel fees
• Expert witness fees
• Travel expenses
• Barrister fees if your claim goes to court
• The defendant’s expenses and solicitor fees

With the no win no fee service, you only pay anything if you win chemical burn injury compensation. Your deductions include the cost of the ATE policy and the success fee paid to your solicitor, which cannot be more than 25% of your settlement.

To find out if you can start your chemical burn claim on a no win no fee basis, call 0800 470 0474 today for a free case assessment. Or, you can use our online claim form to request a call back. A personal injury solicitor will tell you within minutes if you can claim for chemical injury compensation and answer all your questions.