Welding Rod Fumes linked to Parkinson's Disease and other Illnesses

Welding can be dangerous to your health. Every time the welder strikes an arc, toxic fumes can be released which pose serious health threats to the welder and others that work in the same area. It has been identified that inhaling fumes generated from cutting or heating steel can cause health risks such as lung disease and neurological damage.

Manufacturers of welding materials know that welding rods produce different gases when they reach high temperatures. Some of the gases and toxic substances released during the welding process include nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, fluorine, manganese, copper, lead, and cadmium. These substances can be released into the air during the following welding job activities: gas metal arc or metal inert gas (MIG) welding, gas tungsten arc or tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, flux cored arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, brazing, thermal cutting, metal pouring or gauging.

Risks of Welding Rod Fumes

The gas with the greatest potential to cause harm is Manganese. Manganese has been found in stainless steel, carbon steel and in welding rods. Exposure to manganese has been linked to early onset of Parkinson's disease and a related condition called manganism. Parkinson's is currently ranked the 14th highest cause of death in the U.S. Recent reports also indicate that exposure to the above substances can increase risks of pneumonitis, bronchitis, and lung disease.

In a recent welding product lawsuit, a jury awarded $1 million to a man claiming his Parkinson's disease was caused by years of exposure to welding fumes. Parkinson's or Parkinsonism is a neurological disorder with physical symptoms that increase with time. Symptoms and signs of Parkinson's disease include tremors, disorientation, memory loss, fatigue, headache, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, apathy, insomnia, weakness, speech disturbances, impairment of judgment, anxiety, hallucinations or delusions, stiffness in arms and legs, and loss of muscular control.

A leading law firm is investigating claims against manufacturers of welding products (steel-alloy welding rods, wires, and electrodes) for use in a potential class action lawsuit. If you or someone you love is a welder or worked in a welding facility and is suffering from any of these serious conditions, you may have the right to file a claim or to join in a possible class action lawsuit.

Welding Injuries and Lawsuits In the News

18 welding workers file a class action lawsuit against 55+ companies who manufacturer, distribute, sell, or promote welding rod equipment. Defendants claim injuries caused by exposure to welding rod fumes. (Aug-09-05) [BUSINESSWIRE]

Welding fumes have led workers to make claims against a contractor for allegedly knowingly exposing workers to welding fumes and particulate for more than a year. One worker diagnosed with Restrictive Pulmonary Disease. (Apr-07-05) [NEW BAY BRIDGE]

Register your Welding Case

If you or a loved one has been exposed to welding fumes or particulates and now suffers from Parkinson's disease or other illnesses, you may qualify for damages or remedies that may be awarded in a possible class action lawsuit. Please click the link below to submit your complaint and we will have a lawyer review your welding complaint.

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