What Does
Burn Mean?
A burn is an injury caused by heat. It can affect any organ, but usually occurs on the skin or in the airways.
There are for types of burn:
- Thermal burns caused by heat
- Chemical burns caused by exposure to a harsh chemical substance
- Radiation burns caused by exposure to UV rays, X-rays, and other types of radiation
- Electrical burns caused by coming into contact with electrical currents
Safeopedia Explains Burn
Burns cause painful reddening and swelling of the skin. The level of damage depends on the location, depth, and total skin area affected.
The severity of burns is classified into three degrees:
- First Degree Burns: Superficial inflammation of the skin with pain, redness, mild swelling, and tenderness to touch
- Second Degree Burns: Deeper inflammation of the skin, resulting in pain, redness, and blistering
- Third Degree Burns: Inflammation that reaches all layers of the skin and causes damage to nerves and blood vessels
Inflammation and fluid accumulation occur in all burns, from first to third degree. Burns also carry a risk of infection, as they break the skin.
Since the epidermis (the top layer of the skin) is able to regenerate itself, only first degree burns fully heal. Second and third degree burns cause permanent injury and scarring.
Ready to learn more? Check out our free webinar on Selecting Arc Rated / Flame Resistant Foul Weather Gear!
Sign up to the Safeopedia Newsletter to get more great safety info delivered right to your inbox!