Steam Burns Safety
Steam burns are far more severe than hot water burns. Learn why steam is so dangerous, how to prevent burns, and what to do if someone is burned.
Why Steam Burns are Worse
Steam burns are far more severe than hot water burns at the same temperature. When steam contacts skin, it condenses, releasing its latent heat of vaporisation (approximately 2,257 kJ/kg) directly into the skin. Hot water at the same temperature only releases sensible heat (about 420 kJ/kg). Steam transfers roughly 5 times more energy to the skin than hot water.
Additionally, steam can penetrate clothing and skin folds, burning areas that hot water would not reach. Steam is also invisible at the point of release, making it difficult to detect until you are in the danger zone.
Steam is invisible
The white cloud you see when steam escapes is not steam. It is condensed water droplets. The actual steam, at the point of release, is invisible and transparent. The invisible zone between the leak point and the visible cloud is the most dangerous area. Never search for a steam leak with your hands. Use a broom handle or rag on a stick.
Prevention
- PPE: Wear safety glasses or face shield, heat-resistant gloves (long gauntlet), long sleeves and trousers (cotton or fire-resistant), and safety boots when working near steam lines.
- Never search for leaks with your hand: Use a broom handle, rag on a stick, or a piece of cardboard to detect the direction of invisible steam. Keep your face and hands away.
- Stand to the side when opening valves: Never stand directly in front of a valve or trap when opening it. Steam or hot condensate may discharge.
- Isolate before maintenance: Always isolate and lock out/tag out steam equipment before maintenance. Verify zero pressure and temperature before opening.
- Beware of trapped pressure: Even after isolation, pressure can be trapped between valves. Open drain valves to release trapped pressure before opening equipment.
- Beware of flash steam: When opening hot water systems, pressure reduction can cause water to flash into steam. Vent slowly and stand clear.
First Aid for Steam Burns
- Remove the person from the steam source. Ensure the area is safe before approaching.
- Remove clothing from the burned area (unless it is stuck to the skin). Steam can penetrate clothing and continue burning after the person moves away.
- Cool the burn with running cool (not cold) water for at least 20 minutes. This stops the heat from penetrating deeper into the tissue.
- Do NOT apply ice, butter, ointments, or creams. These can trap heat and worsen the burn.
- Cover the burn with a clean, dry, non-stick dressing. Cling film is a good temporary covering.
- Seek medical attention immediately. Steam burns are always more severe than they initially appear. What looks like a minor burn can develop into a serious injury over 24 to 48 hours.
Steam burns always need medical assessment
Even if a steam burn looks minor, seek medical attention. The latent heat transfer can cause deep tissue damage that is not visible on the surface initially. Burns that appear superficial can deepen over 24 to 48 hours. Medical assessment and proper wound care reduce the risk of infection and scarring.
Tip: Train all personnel who work near steam systems on steam burn first aid. The first 20 minutes of cooling are critical for limiting tissue damage. A well-placed emergency shower or hose can make the difference between a minor and a major burn injury.