VA Disability for Welders

Posted by Berry Law on July 29, 2024 in Veterans Disability

Veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces are entitled to disability compensation for any injuries or disabilities sustained during their service. However, many Veterans encounter challenges when filing for disability benefits, particularly those who served as welders. Welders in the military face unique occupational hazards that can lead to various health issues, both during and after their service.

This article explores the most common disabilities experienced by welders, the challenges they may face when filing Veterans Administration (VA) claims, and the steps they can take to secure the benefits they deserve.

The Vital Role of Welders in the Military

Welders maintain and repair military equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure. They are essential to the smooth operation of all branches of the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. In addition to performing their welding duties, these skilled professionals often work in challenging environments and are expected to fulfill the same responsibilities as other service members. Their duties may include:

• Fabricating, maintaining, and repairing metal structures, such as aircraft, ships, vehicles, and weapons systems.
• Installing and assembling metal components and parts using various welding techniques, such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding.
• Interpreting blueprints, sketches, and technical diagrams to determine the appropriate welding process and materials needed for each project.
• Inspecting and testing welded surfaces and structures to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications.
• Operating and maintaining welding equipment, ensuring it is in proper working condition and adheres to safety regulations.
• Collaborating with other technicians, mechanics, and engineers to complete complex projects and meet deadlines.
• Performing repairs and maintenance tasks in challenging environments, such as combat zones, aboard ships, or in remote locations.

Military welders may also be required to participate in collateral duties, such as convoy operations, perimeter security, or patrols, depending on their specific assignment and the needs of their unit.

Common VA Disabilities Among Military Welders

Military welders face a range of occupational hazards that can lead to various health issues, both during and after their service.

Burn Injuries and Flash Burns

One of the most prevalent VA disabilities among military welders is burn injuries. The intense heat generated during welding processes can cause various types of burns, even when personal protective equipment (PPE) is used. In some cases, the demanding operational tempo and urgent field repairs may prevent welders from using PPE as intended, increasing the risk of burn injuries.

Corneal flash burns are an eye injury caused by exposure to UV light. This injury is common among welders with arc welding, gas welding, or plasma-cutting equipment. Symptoms of a corneal flash burn may include pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and a gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes. These injuries can cause vision changes and, in severe cases, vision loss.

In addition to corneal flash burns, some common types of burn injuries military welders may suffer include:

• Thermal burns: When the skin comes into contact with hot objects, flames, or molten metal. Welders may get thermal burns on their hands, arms, or other exposed skin if they accidentally touch hot metal surfaces or are exposed to sparks and spatter while welding.
• Electrical burns: Welding equipment uses high electrical currents, which can cause electrical burns if a welder comes into contact with live electrical components. These burns can be severe and may cause internal damage to tissues and organs.
• Chemical burns: Welders may work with various chemicals, such as cleaning agents or pickling pastes, which can cause chemical burns if they come into contact with the skin or eyes.
• Radiation burns: Welding processes emit intense infrared and ultraviolet radiation, which can cause radiation burns to exposed skin.

Respiratory Conditions

Military welders are frequently exposed to fumes and chemicals that can lead to respiratory conditions. Welding in confined spaces or areas with poor ventilation can exacerbate the risk of smoke inhalation and the development of respiratory issues.

Veterans who served in the Gulf War may have been exposed to toxic smoke from burn pits, which can also contribute to the development of respiratory conditions.

Other Eye Injuries

While welding helmets are designed to minimize the risk of flash burns, Veterans may still suffer from other types of eye injuries. Exposure to toxic chemicals or foreign object penetration can cause significant damage to the eyes, leading to vision impairment or loss.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Welders in the military often work in confined spaces with heavy equipment, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries such as back pain or leg injuries. Prolonged bending, lifting, and maneuvering in awkward positions can strain the body and cause long-term musculoskeletal conditions.

Penetrating or Foreign Object Trauma

Penetrating trauma, caused by foreign objects piercing the skin and damaging underlying tissue, is another common injury among military welders. These injuries can be severe and debilitating, affecting a Veteran’s ability to perform daily tasks and maintain employment.

Combat-Related Injuries

Exposure to combat situations can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or other battlefield injuries.

Challenges Faced by Veteran Welders When Filing VA Disability Claims

Despite the clear link between welding-related injuries and military service, many Veterans struggle to obtain the disability benefits they deserve. Some of the challenges they may face include:

Insufficient Medical Evidence

To successfully file a VA disability claim, Veterans must provide substantial medical evidence that connects their current disability to their military service. Gathering this evidence can be difficult, especially if the injury or condition developed years after the Veteran’s discharge.

Difficulty Proving Service Connection

Establishing a clear connection between a Veteran’s current disability and their military service can be challenging, particularly if the injury or condition is not well-documented in their service medical records.

Complex VA Claims Process

The VA claims process can be confusing and overwhelming for many Veterans. Understanding the requirements, deadlines, and appeal procedures can be daunting, leading to frustration and delayed benefits. Some Veterans may not have access to experienced legal representation when filing their VA disability claims, which can hinder their ability to present a strong case and secure the benefits they deserve.

Steps Veterans Can Take to Secure VA Welding Disability Benefits

Veterans should collect all relevant medical records, including service medical records, post-service treatment records, and any additional documentation that supports their disability claim. This evidence should demonstrate the connection between their current condition and military service.

Obtaining medical opinions from qualified healthcare professionals can strengthen a Veteran’s disability claim. These opinions should provide a detailed explanation of how the Veteran’s current condition is related to their military service, including their duties as a welder.

Work with an Experienced VA Disability Attorney

Collaborating with a knowledgeable VA disability attorney can significantly improve Veterans’ chances of securing the benefits they deserve. These lawyers understand the VA claims process and can guide Veterans through it.

One of the primary ways a VA disability attorney can assist Veteran welders is by helping them gather and present the necessary evidence to support their claim. This may include obtaining service medical records, post-service treatment records, and expert medical opinions that establish a clear link between the Veteran’s current disability and their military service.

Attorneys can also help Veterans effectively communicate the impact of their disability on their daily life and ability to work, which is the basis for determining the appropriate level of compensation.

In cases where a Veteran welder’s initial claim is denied, an experienced VA disability attorney can be essential in the appeals process. They can review the denial, identify errors or oversights in the VA’s decision, and develop a strong strategy for appealing the decision. This may involve presenting additional evidence, arguing for a higher disability rating, or advocating for a more accurate effective date for the Veteran’s benefits.

Contact Berry Law to Secure VA Disability Benefits for Welding Injuries

Welders in the United States Armed Forces face unique occupational hazards that can lead to a wide range of injuries and disabilities. From burn injuries and respiratory conditions to musculoskeletal injuries and combat-related trauma, these Veterans have sacrificed their health and well-being in service to their country.

Despite the challenges they may face when filing VA disability claims, Veterans who served as welders should not lose hope. Experienced VA disability attorneys can help them navigate the complex claims process and secure the benefits they have earned.

As America’s Veterans Law Firm, Berry Law is committed to providing unwavering support to Veterans in all 50 states. Call our legal team at 888-883-2483 or fill out our online contact form. We are available 24/7.