Did You Know?

A recent study found that a group of welders who had Parkinson's disease developed symptoms approximately 15 years earlier than did other Parkinson's patients.

Manganese Fact: In a recent case involving injuries caused by welding rod fumes in Madison County , Missouri , the plaintiff won a $1,000,000 verdict.

Everyone is exposed to small amounts of manganese in air, water, and food. Exposure to metal fumes from welding, cutting and brazing-especially in confined spaces-can cause brain damage. A major culprit is manganese, a component of all steel and major welding materials. Manganese has been known to cause the degenerative brain disorder known as Parkinsonism since 1837. A recent study found 40 percent of welders showed signs of the disorder. Many physicians are unaware of manganese poisoning or the risks of exposures in steel making and welding as stated on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

Beginning in the late 1970s and early 1980s, lawsuits against companies in the welding industry began appearing. These lawsuits brought claims against not only the manufacturers of welding rods, but also against some of the welding industry's trade organizations. Manganism , or poisoning, is often the result of exposure to welding fumes. Manganism is characterized by mental difficulties and the impairment of motor skills.

Manganese Symptoms

Manganese can affect you when breathed in.
Repeated exposure can cause permanent brain damage. Early symptoms include poor appetite, weakness, difficulty swallowing, impotence and sleepiness. Later effects include changes in speech problems, balance and personality. The later symptoms are identical to Parkinson's Disease.

Heated Manganese can release fumes causing a flu-like illness with chills, fever and aching. Chest congestion resembling pneumonia can also occur.

Exposure may cause lung allergy (asthma) to develop with wheezing and shortness of breath. Once allergy develops, even low future exposures can cause symptoms. It may damage the kidneys and liver.
Repeated exposure can cause a variety of changes in the blood count. Liver and/or kidney damage may also occur.

Exposure to high levels of manganese can cause damage to the brain, liver, and/or kidneys. Additionally, manganese exposure can cause harm to unborn children.

Manganese is commonly used in production of batteries, matches, and fireworks. It is also is used in glazes, varnishes, ceramics, and fertilizers and fungicides. A compound of manganese is used as an additive in gasoline in some countries, but is currently banned for that purpose in the United States. Manganese is also added to animal and poultry feed.

Workers at Risk for Manganese Exposure

Scientists recently reported that welding might trigger the early onset of Parkinson's Disease. A research team led by neurologist Brad A. Racette, M.D., found that professional welders developed typical clinical and neurological signs of the disease an average of 15 years earlier than the general population. The study was featured in the professional journal Neurology with an accompanying editorial.

Note: See a doctor if you have been harmed by this substance. It may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. If you have any of these symptoms, go to your doctor as soon as possible.

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