|
|  |
Welding Rods
Manganism is a chronic disorder of the central nervous system that results from excessive or prolonged exposure to manganese.
Manganism is also known as Welder's Disease because of the high
incidence of this condition in welders and others who work in close
proximity to welders.
Manganese is a by-product of magnesium, which forms part of the welding
rod. Fumes containing high levels of manganese are emitted from welding
rods during the welding process and are inhaled by those working with
and around the rods and other welding products.
Manganese is an essential nutrient to the human body, but over-exposure
for a period of as little as 49 days may cause manganese poisoning.
Early symptoms of Manganism include speech and gait disturbances,
postural impairment, and tremors. Other symptoms may manifest as the
condition progresses, including speech disorders; masked or
expressionless face; sleeplessness and memory loss.
Manganism is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease, another
neurological disorder with symptoms similar to those of Manganism. A
recent study suggested, however, that some welders who have Parkinson's
disease developed symptoms approximately 15 years earlier than other
Parkinson's patients. Further study is needed, but initial results do
indicate a link between exposure to manganese and early onset of
Parkinson's disease.
The dangers associated with inhaling fumes from welding rods, wires and
electrodes, have been known by the manufacturers of these products for
many years.
|
|
|
|
|
