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Welding Rod Controversy
Welding rods appear to be the new asbestos, and attorneys and courts across the country are noticing a dramatic increase in welding rod litigation as workers allege serious medical conditions as a result of occupational exposure to the toxic effects of welding rods. However, the accusations of welding rod litigants are controversial, with the welding industry continuing to claim that welding rod fumes do not cause manganism or Parkinson's disease. The industry has even gone to the lengths of providing its own study concluding (unsurprisingly) that welding rod fumes are benign and safe for workers.
Conflicting Studies
Though the welding industry strenuously contends that welding rod fumes are non-toxic and have no connection whatsoever to chronic and even deadly conditions such as manganism, Parkinson's disease, and others, studies published by non-industry organizations such as the National Electrical Manufacturer's Association have recognized manganese as a toxic byproduct of welding rods. In addition, the industry states that it is unaware of any welders who have developed manganism, contending that most manganism occurs in third-world countries amongst miners.
Affected Workers Think Differently
Those welding workers who are affected with the daily distress of manganism and Parkinson's disease think differently. In their litigation attempts, they are claiming that the welding industry not only was aware of the dangers of welding rods and the potential for manganism, but that the welding industry was negligent, even covering up evidence that manganism is a hazard of working with the fumes from welding rods. The workers' cases are further complicated by the fact that manganism is slow to manifest itself and is likely to be mistaken for another condition or disease and misdiagnosed. However, they are proceeding with mass tort litigation, even filing a huge multi-district litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court in Cleveland, Ohio.
If You've Been Affected By Welding-Related Manganism or Parkinson's
If you have been affected by manganism, Parkinson's disease, or other illnesses associated with inhalation of fumes from welding rods, contact a doctor immediately. Your diagnosis will direct your care and be invaluable as you attempt to file your manganese/welding rod claim. Contact an attorney with experience in welding rod litigation to find out more about whether your case is viable. If you have a strong claim, you may be able to recover damages, including but not limited to payment of medical treatment and future medical care, attorney's fees, and compensation for lost wages and/or pain and suffering. An experienced welding rod lawyer will analyze your case, help you file suit against the proper entities, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
With around 800,000 current and former welders living in the United States alone, you are not alone. As welding rod litigation continues to pick up speed, it may well become the next wave of mass tort in this country.
