Health and safety advice
Burns
Burns and scalds are serious risks in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Burns and scalds are commonly caused by steam, spilling or splashing hot liquids and contact with hot surfaces such as food trays. Workers are at risk from burns and scalds when:
- cooking or removing food from elements, ovens, deep fryers or grillers
- using hot water in urns, expresso machines and laundering
- ironing and hot water in the laundry and kitchen
- using chemicals for cleaning surfaces and equipment and gardening
Reducing the risk
Reduce the risk of burns and scalds by following these guidelines:
- train workers in safe work procedures for working near steam, hot surfaces or hot substances and for using corrosive cleaning chemicals (for example patting food dry before dipping in fat to reduce spitting, or allowing fat to cool before draining into a container)
- supervise workers
- maintain seals regularly on deep fryers
- use vegetable oil instead of animal fat - it remains in liquid form when cool
- where possible, use alternative cooking methods to deep frying (for example microwaving, grilling or baking)
- install wheeled containers to receive spent grease from deep fryers - these can be safely rolled from the kitchen to the grease bin
- lower food and utensils slowly into hot oil
- maintain equipment to ensure lids are fitted and handles are secure
- ensure the handles of pots and pans do not stick out from counters or stoves
- use oven mitts or dry cloths when handling hot objects
- open lids away from the body to allow steam to escape
- remove trays from hot ovens with care
- post signs to warn workers about hot equipment
- keep a first aid kit accessible
- install a fire extinguisher for fat fires in an easy to reach location and make sure workers know how to use it
Treating a burn
- Place the affected area/s under cool, running water for 20 minutes.
- Cover loosely with wet towel or cloth.
- Keep the patient warm.
- Seek medical assistance.
Do not remove any of the person's clothing. This makes the burns much worse.
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