What Does
Blister Mean?
A blister is a collection of fluid, usually blood serum or plasma underneath the top layer of skin (epidermis) cushioning the tissue underneath. Blisters can also be filled with blood or pus if inflamed or infected. In the workplace, blisters may be caused by heat, chemical burns, friction, freezing and medication. Blisters are also caused by many diseases.
Safeopedia Explains Blister
A blister can be caused by the following:
- Intense rubbing or friction on a small area of the skin by any machine, tools or surface of any material, such as shoes on the feet
- Burning by flame, steam, hot metal or other surfaces
- Severe sunburn or radiation
- Exposure of the skin to extreme cold, also known as frostbite
- Exposure to some chemicals, poisons and irritants
- Drug reaction
- Allergens
Most blisters will heal slowly without any medical treatment, unless they become infected. Medical treatments are necessary if the blisters are very painful, red, hot and appear to be filled with blood or pus, or if they are repeatedly found on unusual parts of the body.
Blisters can be avoided in the workplaces using the following methods:
- Avoiding or taking extra precaution at the workplaces where there are hot materials, flames and steam etc.
- Avoid exposure of skin in the sun or extreme cold
- Avoid allergens including plants and animals
- Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as wearing comfortable and well-fitting shoes, gloves and masks
- Avoid known allergenic medicines