Welding Rod Cases

As explained by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, welding rods are solid, manufactured items that are formed to a specific shape. When welding rods are maintained in this manufactured shape, they do not release more than minute or trace quantities of hazardous chemicals, and therefore, could appear to be articles exempt from the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS).  

"Under normal conditions of use, however, welding rods emit significant quantities of metal fumes and other hazardous chemicals and do not meet the HCS article exemption." - OSHA

The metal welding rod fumes discussed above are in reference to the heavy metal manganese. Welding rods, which contain manganese, give off dangerous fumes that have been found to cause a condition similar to Parkinson's disease called manganism or parkinsonism. 

What is Manganism?  

Manganism is a toxic condition resulting from chronic exposure to the heavy metal manganese. The symptoms of manganism are very similar to Parkinson's Disease and in some cases individuals with manganism are misdiagnosed as having Parkinson's Disease. 

Manganism occurs when an excess of the heavy metal manganese injures the part of the brain that controls deliberate body movements, such as walking, speaking, and swallowing.

What You Can Do & How We Can Help 

If you or somebody you know has been exposed to welding rod fumes and since developed health problems such as manganism; we would like to speak with you. Please contact us with questions of for more information.