Welding Rod Illness Study

     Chandra released a study documenting the correlation. A group of 60 welders from three separate plants who were exposed to manganese fumes were studied by Chandra in 1981. Chandra found that 24 of the welders had signs of manganism.  These included tremors, and deep-tendon reflex disorders.   The mean concentration of manganese in these plants were 0.31, 0.57 and 1.74 mg/m3, respectively.  Workers from all three plants reported insomnia.  Plant 1 workers reported frequent colds, coughing, and fever.  Neurological effects measured by "brisk, deep reflexes" in the legs and/or arms were seen in 25% of workers exposed to 0.31 mg/m3, 50% of workers exposed to 0.57 mg/m3 and 45% of workers exposed to 1.74 mg/m3.  Tremors were also observed in one worker in plant 1 and four workers in plant 2. Increased urinary manganese and serum calcium levels were also seen in workers from all plants.  A LOAEL (Lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level) of 0.11 mg/m3 was determined from the mean exposure at plant 1.

     If you have been exposed to manganese fumes and suffer from symptoms of Manganism or Parkinson's disease, you may be entitled to monetary compensation.   To contact an attorney who will review your claim click here and fill out our free case evaluation form.  An attorney with the Sheff Law Offices, P.C. will review your claim and may contact you to discuss your rights.