A Madison County, Illinois jury recently awarded $1 million to a 65 year old former welder who claimed his exposure to manganese in welding fumes caused him to develop a central nervous system disorder that affects movement and coordination. Although the medical profession had known that exposure to toxic levels of manganese is a known health hazard since at least the 1830’s,  this case was the first major legal victory for welders who have been battling rod makers and employers for decades over the issue of welding fume induced illnesses.

Welding is the process of joining metals by electric arc or flame with a filler material. The process of welding causes the release of concentrated particulate fumes and gases which  contain a number of elements including fluorine (F), zink (Zn), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), calcium (Ca), sulphur (S), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and manganese (Mn).  Many of these gases, including manganese, cause known health hazards when ingested by humans. Furthermore, these gases may be odorless and cannot be seen with the naked eye.

 While there are a number of documented health problems attributed to welding fumes one of the most serious side effects is an irreversible parkinsonian-like syndrome, characterized by fixed gaze, bradykinesia postural difficulties, rigidity, tremor, dystonia and decreased metal status.  This condition, which was first described by J. Couper in 1837, has been coined Manganism. 

The devastating effects of this disease and its link to mangenese welding rods are now coming to light as a result of new medical studies and a flux of litigation starting with Larry Elam’s victory over the welding rod manufacturers. 

If you or a loved one suffers from Manganism or Parkinson's Disease as a result of breathing welding rod fumes, you should seek medical attention immediately.  You should also contact an attorney.  To find a personal injury attorney investigating welding rods cases, fill out the free evaluation form below.  An attorney will review this form in accordance with the site terms and conditions.