# Third or fourth degree heat (thermal) burns at MERRILL IRON & STEEL INC.
> OSHA SIR `20181111594` · 11/9/2018 · SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI
## Severity
- **1 hospitalization**
- **Body part:** Ankle(s)
- **Nature of injury:** Third or fourth degree heat (thermal) burns
## Cause
- **Event:** Contact with hot objects or substances
- **Source:** Tool parts, accessories, n.e.c.
- **Secondary source:** Welding, cutting, and blow torches
## Employer
- **Name:** MERRILL IRON & STEEL INC.
- **Location:** 2101 N. Packer Road, SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI, 65803
- **NAICS:** 332312
- **Jurisdiction:** 1
## Narrative

An employee was arc welding when the welding rod came loose from the employee's welding gun. The rod became lodged near the employee's ankle, causing second- and third-degree burns. The employee was hospitalized.

---
*Source: [OSHA Severe Injury Reports](https://www.osha.gov/severe-injury-reports) · MORVS · CC0 1.0*