Many of the heavy metals, a special group of elements, have fairly extensive usefulness in industrial and manufacturing applications. However, these elements can also prove particularly dangerous around humans. Like lead and mercury, a heavy metal known as cadmium can have a major impact on a person's body if they inhale or ingest the material. Although there are significant limitations on cadmium as used in an industrial setting, this material still appears in substantial amounts.

Cadmium poisoning has often been linked to factories and plants that produce plastics, coating materials, and batteries. For most production facilities, a significant cut has occurred in cadmium fume exposure. However, if the shields or fume hoods have a crack or malfunction, these vapors can expose workers to an extremely high concentration of this toxic material. Additionally, welding is a serious problem for many workers, as any metals containing a significant amount of cadmium may release toxic vapors during work.

Cadmium poisoning is also a major concern for artists and painters using cadmium-based paints. While these materials often retain a color that many prefer to safer paints, cadmium exposure from large amounts of paint can trigger many of the symptoms of poisoning. Many paints including this heavy metal have been pulled from most stores, but dedicated artists may still get a hold of these materials if they desire.

Particularly hazardous, cadmium can enter into local water sources. As a result, irrigation water may not be properly filtered, spreading cadmium into plants and animals. When people consume these plants, they may suffer from mild poisoning. However, significantly higher concentrations can be found in the liver and kidneys of animals that may be slaughtered for consumption.

If you or someone you love has suffered because of negligent cadmium disposal or use, contact the Milwaukee personal injury lawyers of Habush, Habush & Rottier, S.C., today for more information regarding your rights and options.