The Dangers of Rust

Rust is a common substance on older metal objects. It is a basic chemical reaction known as oxidation that causes the something in the metal to react with the oxygen in water and in air and form a substance. The Statue of Liberty gets is distinctive green color from oxidation of copper. This makes the Statue’s surface stronger and preserves it for future generations. While oxidation for the Statue of Liberty is a good thing, in many cases it is a definite negative.

When rust occurs in iron and other metals, it weakens the metal. It is not uncommon in older cars to see where rust has completely eaten through the lower portions of the car. While it can make a lovely lace-like pattern, rust is bad for cars and metal in general. When the metal is weakened by rust, it is much more likely to break or collapse.

Rust is not a very big deal for smaller items but it can be a serious hazard in larger structures that require an ability to support a certain amount of weight. For example, a metal bridge that is rusted out may not be able to support the weight of cars passing over it. Without inspections, the bridge will remain unsafe until it collapses. Similar problems can occur on decks and porches where nails and screws are allowed to rust away until they are unable to support the weight of the porch.

Another serious problem with rust occurs when it gets into an open wound. Rust is associated with dirt and certain types of bacteria. One of the bacteria that love a rusty environment is that which causes tetanus. While a very rare occurrence thanks to tetanus shots and boosters, tetanus can be deadly.

Contact a Harrisburg Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have been seriously injured by an object that has rusted, contact the Harrisburg personal injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams at 610-667-7511.