Man Claims Welding Industry Concealed Knowledge of Welding Fume Dangers

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - A Missouri man recently sued eight welding rod manufacturers, claiming the companies failed to disclose the risks of welding fume exposure.Johnston v. A.O. Smith Corp., et al. No. 0516-cv-23961 (Mo. Cir. Ct., Jackson Cty.).

Kevin Johnston began working as a welder in 1976 and claims that during his employment he was not properly protected against welding fumes and therefore developed Parkinson's disease. Johnston sued A.O. Smith Corp., Airco/The BOC Group Inc., ESAB Group Inc., Hobart Brothers Co., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Lincoln Electric Co., Welds Supply Inc. and Hohenschild Welders Supply Co. in the Circuit Court of …