#Workplace Safety
By Team Seaglass
In the fast-paced environment of a healthcare facility kitchen, safety is just as critical as nutrition. Burn injuries are among the most common accidents in dietary departments, often resulting from hot surfaces, boiling liquids, steam, or splashing oil. Burns aren’t just painful—they can sideline you from work, lead to infection, or even require medical attention. The good news? Most burns are preventable. With a few smart habits and a little extra awareness, you can protect yourself and your coworkers from these common injuries.
Understanding the Risk: Where Burns Start
You already know the hot spots: ovens, steamers, hot liquids, warming trays, and even the dishwasher. But did you know that most burns happen during routine tasks, when you’re rushing or trying to save time?
👉 Scenario:
Maria was short-staffed one afternoon and reached into the oven using a thin towel instead of oven mitts. The heat went straight through, and she ended up with a second-degree burn on her palm.
✅ Tip: Always use thick, heat-resistant oven mitts or gloves when touching anything hot—even for a second. A towel isn’t designed to stop heat.
Steam, Spills, and Surprises
One of the most common (and sneaky) causes of burns is steam. It’s hotter than boiling water and can cause serious injuries before you even realize it.
👉 Scenario:
James opened a commercial steamer door too fast, standing directly in front of it. The sudden burst of steam burned his forearm—he wasn’t wearing long sleeves, and he didn’t step back first.
✅ Tip: Always open steamers or lids slowly and away from your face and body. Take a step back and give the heat a moment to escape.
Other risky situations include:
- Carrying hot trays through tight spaces without announcing yourself
- Lifting large pots of hot soup without help or support
- Turning suddenly and bumping into a coworker with hot food in your hands
👉 Scenario:
Jenny was carrying a full tray of gravy when she turned a corner. A coworker didn’t hear her coming, and they bumped into each other. The tray spilled, and she ended up with a painful burn on her leg.
✅ Tip: Use clear, verbal warnings like “Hot behind!” or “Coming through!” when carrying hot food. It helps prevent accidents before they happen.
✅ Tip: Have specific directional traffic patterns to direct staff entering and exiting the kitchen area. This will reduce the risk of bumping into others while carrying hot objects.
Your Surroundings Matter
A clean, dry floor isn’t just about avoiding slips—it’s also about preventing burns when carrying something hot.
👉 Scenario:
Devon was carrying a container of hot soup to the line when he stepped on a wet patch. He slipped slightly, lost balance, and the soup splashed all over his pants. The burn was serious enough to need medical treatment.
✅ Tip: If the floor is wet, stop. Ask someone to clean it or use a cart to move hot items. Don’t take a chance when your safety’s at stake.
Other smart habits:
- Use carts to carry heavy or multiple hot items
- Turn pot handles inward so they don’t get knocked off the stove
- Never overfill containers with boiling liquids—keep them easy to carry
Dress for Safety
The clothes you wear are also part of your burn protection plan. Make sure you’re set up with:
- Long sleeves that won’t easily catch or roll up
- Closed-toe, non-slip shoes to protect your feet from spills
- Oven mitts or gloves that are in good condition—not wet or thin
And be sure that PPE (personal protective equipment) is within reach and in good shape. Worn-out gloves or mitts can still let heat through.
If a Burn Happens: Don’t Wait
Even with the best precautions, burns can happen. Knowing how to respond quickly can make a big difference.
👉 Scenario:
Shannon accidentally touched a hot pan but didn’t report it or treat it. The next day, the blister had gotten worse and became infected, and she had to miss time from work.
✅ Tip: If you get burned:
- Cool the area with clean, cool (not ice-cold) water for several minutes
- Cover it with a clean, dry cloth or dressing
- Report it to your supervisor immediately
- Don’t try to “tough it out”—early treatment prevents complications
Your Safety Matters
In a busy kitchen, it’s easy to focus on speed and rely on routine—but your safety is just as important as meal prep. Burns can happen in a split second, but with the right habits and awareness, most are completely preventable. Use proper PPE, communicate clearly, and stay aware of your surroundings. A safe kitchen starts with you—look out for yourself and your team.