Spill Prevention Special Report

According to the CDC, about 1.1 million people are treated for burn injuries every year. Of all burns requiring hospitalization, 38-58% are due to hot liquids or steam. People over age 65 are at an elevated risk, and account for nearly 9000 emergency room visits for scalds every year. More than three-quarters occur in the home,and about two-thirds of victims are women. The most common cause for scald injuries is hot food or beverage (42%), followed by hot water or steam (30%). Coffee accounts for about 15% of all nonfatal scald injuries suffered by persons age 65 and over.

Spills present a danger to workers, the community and the environment. Knowing where spills are likely to occur can help you be on the lookout for them and ways to prevent them…