Welding is amongst the most dangerous industrial activities. The hazards of industrial welding go far beyond the traditional fears of being burned or blinded. There is a much more dangerous aspect to the craft. Each time a welder's torch cuts into a metal, the toxic fumes generated can pose a deadly threat to the welder and anyone else in the immediate area. If inhaled, the fumes can cause serious, and in some cases irreparable, damage to the lungs and overall health.

Science is just discovering the danger of the toxic fumes associated with welding. Fumes are a natural by-product of welding, and are expected from even simple welding operations. Even simple welding work should require the use of respiratory protection or ventilation. Simple operations lead to fumes like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and ozone.

In many instances, the welding rod itself is the culprit. Some are made of cadmium and will produce fumes which pose a carcinogenic risk to anyone inhaling them. Just as dangerous is welding into old metal that has paint or oil-solvents on it. Gasses emitted from welding include nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and fluorides. All have the potential to cause great damage to the respiratory system. However, the greatest threat posed could come from the element manganese. Found in stainless and carbon steels and in welding rods, manganese has been linked to Parkinson's disease for well over a century.

Ventilation and respiratory protection are the keys to avoiding risks associated with diseases like Parkinson's. From the shipyard to the backyard, any welder (professional or amateur) should insure he is working in a highly ventilated space and is provided the proper inhalation protective equipment.

In October 2003, an Illinois jury awarded $1 million to a 65-year-old man who developed Parkinson's disease after years of using welding rods. The jury ruled that welding rod manufacturers were responsible for his injuries because they failed to warn him about potential health problems associated with the dangerous tools. Analysts expect the number of welding rod claims to rise significantly in 2004 as more people discover the long-term health effects to the lungs, heart, kidneys, and central nervous system.

Time Limits on Filing Suit
Every case has a statute of limitations that will apply. It varies by the type of case and the state where the case is filed. Don't wait until there is trouble or until the end of your case to get a lawyer. Your attorney would prefer to be involved every step of the way, to monitor your case, to guide you, to prevent trouble, and to assist you.

Irwin & Boesen, P.C. represents persons who have been injured by dangerous products such as welding. Please contact us for a free case evaluation.