Not all jobs pose the same risk of developing an occupational disease. Some jobs where you work around dusts, fibers, chemicals, or fumes put you at greater risk. Manganese is a mineral found in nature that provides nutrients for various types of animals and plants. It’s useful to many organisms but in excess can be very dangerous for humans. Long term exposure to manganese is known to cause manganese poisoning. It has even been shown to increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s Syndrome even if the exposure is within legal limits. In situations such as these—where a workers has a high potential for developing health related disorder because of their work industry, he or she may be able to file for workers’ compensation based on their exposure.
Who is at risk?
There are several different occupations that use manganese in the workplace:
– Steel workers
– Railroad workers
– Miners
– Welders— the process of welding involves working with molten metal which produces toxic fumes. Manganese, which is used in welding rods is one of agents and is also present in all welding fumes. The manganese causes Parkinson’s-like-symptoms over time.
Symptoms
Excess inhalation of manganese can be dangerous and have a negative effect on a worker’s lungs, kidney and liver. Furthermore, the central nervous system is affected and can suffer damage after long term exposure which results in serious health problem and symptoms associated with Parkinson’s’ disease. Some of these symptoms include:
- Difficulty with making facial expressions appropriately
- Difficulty with speech
- Hand-eye coordination problems
- Lung and other respiratory problems (shortness of breath, wheezing, etc.)
- Psychological issues
- Tremors
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Headaches
Workers have the reasonable expectation that their employers will educate them of the risks of toxic substances. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created to protect workers from workplace injuries such as exposure to toxic chemicals and requires employers to educate and warn employees of the risks of known toxic substances. In fact, if the level of chemical exceeds what they set as appropriate, then the worker must be removed until it is safe for them to be back in that environment breathing again.
If you believe you have been exposed to dangerous levels of manganese…
If you are experiencing or have experienced manganese poisoning due to your working conditions, see a doctor immediately. There are several tests that can be done to determine whether or not you have developed manganism toxicity. If the symptoms suffered are due to an on-the-job exposure, you are also entitled to pursue a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits could include the costs of all necessary medical care and treatment plus a percentage of lost wages. Contact a skilled lawyer immediately to discuss your legal options.