Protecting Yourself from Burns When Welding: Treatment and Healing

In April, we discussed the types of burns that occur when welding. While flame retardant clothing can protect you from burns, accidents can happen. Here’s how to treat a welding burn. 

First-degree burns

How do you treat a first-degree burn? After you first become burnt, run the burned part of your body underneath cold water for a few minutes. After the burn is cool, apply burn ointment. You can also take an over-the-counter pain medication to reduce pain.

How long do these burns take to heal? A first-degree burn will usually heal in about three to seven days.

Second-degree burns

How do you treat a second-degree burn? Cool the burned area immediately after being burnt, apply burn cream, and then covered the burned area with a gauze dressing that won’t stick to the burned skin. Make sure you change the dressing daily and never puncture the blisters.

How long do these burns take to heal? A second-degree burn usually heals in about two to three weeks.

Third-degree burns

How do you treat a third-degree burn? Do not try to treat a third degree burn at home. If you think you have a third-degree burn, go directly to the nearest hospital.

How long do these burns take to heal? Healing time depends on the severity of the burn.

Protect yourself from burns when welding by wearing flame retardant clothing, welding gloves and other welding safety gear. You can find an assortment of affordable welding protection gear at USWeldingSupply.com.