613 Worker Safety in Restaurants

Burns

Possible Solutions

Be sure to follow all the safety procedures and wear all protective equipment provided by your employer and be trained in the proper use of equipment, such as the following:

• Do wear long-sleeved cotton shirts and pants when cooking. A clean, dry, and properly worn apron or uniform can protect you from burns and hot oil splashes.
• Do not cook without wearing protective clothing.
• Use appropriate hand protection when hands are exposed to hazards, such as cuts, lacerations, and thermal burns. Use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot items.
• Learn to use equipment and personal protective equipment properly.
• Check hot foods on stoves or in the microwave carefully. Uncover a container of steaming materials by lifting the lid open away from your face.
• Avoid overflowing pots and pans.
• Place sealed cooking pouches in boiling water carefully to prevent splashing.
• Do not lean over pots of boiling liquid.

Safe Work Practices

Employers should implement the following safe work practices to help prevent burns:

• Follow child labor laws that don't permit workers younger than 16 to cook, except at soda fountains, lunch counters, snack bars, and cafeteria serving counters.
• Assess tasks to identify potential worksite hazards and provide the proper personal protective equipment.
• Require employees to use appropriate hand protection when exposed to hazards such as cuts, lacerations, and thermal burns.

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