Steam press burns of the hand

Steam presses pose an occupational hazard to workers in the dry cleaning industry. Three patients with thermal burns to the hand from steam press accidents were recently treated at this institution. Each patient sustained deep second and third degree burns to the dorsum of the hand. Two patients required split-thickness skin grafts and have retained full range of motion and returned to full employment. One patient sustained destruction of extensor tendons and required a groin flap for coverage. Late tendon reconstruction will be necessary. Investigation revealed that older steam press models do not have an emergency release lever in case of accidental closure on a worker's hand. Although newer models are equipped with a thigh-activated emergency release lever, a contact burn remains likely if the press closes on the operator's hands. Some of the newest models have an attached safety bar that prevents the press from closing on the operator's hands. It is recommended that older models either be modified with the attachment of a safety bar or replaced entirely.