At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, we’ve helped countless injured workers across Missouri receive the compensation they deserve—even after a claim was denied or delayed.
Chemical burns can be one of the most painful and dangerous types of workplace injuries—especially in industries like manufacturing, construction, janitorial work, and agriculture. If you’ve suffered a chemical burn on the job in Missouri, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care.
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What Are Chemical Burns?
Chemical burns occur when corrosive substances such as acids, alkalis, solvents, or detergents come into contact with the skin, eyes, or internal tissue. Common examples include:
- Industrial cleaners and degreasers
- Pool chemicals and disinfectants
- Paint thinners and strippers
- Battery acid
- Ammonia and bleach
Depending on the substance and exposure, burns can range from mild irritation to severe tissue damage that requires emergency medical care, skin grafts, or long-term rehabilitation.
Does Workers’ Comp in Missouri cover Chemical Burns?
Yes. Under the Missouri workers’ compensation law, chemical burns sustained on the job are typically covered injuries—regardless of who was at fault. That means if you were exposed to a harmful chemical while performing your job duties, you may be eligible for benefits, including:
- Medical treatment and hospitalization
- Prescription medication and wound care
- Surgery or skin grafting
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits while you’re unable to work
- Permanent partial or total disability benefits if scarring or long-term damage remains
However, insurance companies often dispute the extent of chemical burns or argue the exposure occurred outside of work—making it critical to consult an experienced workers’ comp attorney.
Steps to Take After a Chemical Burn at Work
If you’ve been exposed to a hazardous chemical, take the following steps immediately:
- Report the Injury Immediately
Missouri law requires you to notify your employer within 30 days of a work injury. Be as specific as possible about how and when the exposure occurred. - Seek Medical Treatment Promptly
Your employer has the right to select the doctor for your treatment. Delaying care or choosing your own provider without approval could hurt your claim. - Document Everything
Take photos of the burn (if visible), keep copies of medical records, and save any correspondence with your employer or their insurance carrier. - File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
If your employer does not report your injury to the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation or you experience delays, speak with a lawyer right away. - Consult an Experienced Missouri Workers’ Comp Attorney
Especially with chemical injuries, insurance companies may try to minimize the severity or argue that pre-existing conditions are to blame. You need an advocate who will fight for the full benefits you deserve.
Why Chemical Burn Claims Often Get Denied
Unfortunately, many workers with legitimate chemical exposure injuries face unfair claim denials or delayed care. Here are common reasons:
- Employer disputes that the exposure happened on the job
- Insurance claims the symptoms are from a pre-existing condition
- Insufficient medical documentation or improper reporting
- The claimant didn’t use the employer-approved doctors
- Lack of visible scarring (despite internal damage or ongoing pain)
Don’t accept a denial without speaking to a Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer. With over 30 years of experience, Attorney James M. Hoffmann has helped injured workers across Missouri receive over $100 million in compensation—and we’re ready to fight for you.
We’ve Helped Missouri Workers with Burn Injuries Just Like Yours
Whether you were burned while handling industrial cleaners, exposed to leaking batteries, or splashed with corrosive chemicals at a worksite, we can help you navigate the complex claims process and pursue the maximum compensation available under Missouri law.