Arc Eye, Burns, and Manganism (Welders’ Parkinson’s Disease)
Welding is one of the most hazardous occupations in construction. Traditionally, welders had to fear workplace injury from burns, electricity, and “welder’s flash” (blinding and diminished vision, see below). Recent studies have shown that toxic chemicals released from welding rods put welders at an additional workplace risk for less immediate but no less serious conditions of lung, brain, and nerve damage, such as manganism (Welders’ Parkinson’s disease).
Welders make up over half a million workers in America’s workforce. Welding is also one of the most dangerous occupations because of the daily likelihood of workplace injury from burns and electricity.