Hawaii, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits

In Hawaii, asbestos exposure has been a significant concern, particularly in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, military installations, and agriculture. Workers in these sectors faced risks of inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to serious health conditions like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Construction workers encountered asbestos-containing materials commonly used in building insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement products. Shipyard workers in Honolulu and Pearl Harbor were also at risk due to the widespread use of asbestos in naval vessels and commercial ships. Military personnel stationed in Hawaii were exposed to asbestos in buildings, aircraft, and vehicles on military installations.
Agricultural workers, particularly those in the sugar and pineapple plantations, faced asbestos exposure through equipment, machinery, and building materials. Despite efforts to regulate asbestos use and increase awareness, the consequences of past exposure continue to affect individuals in Hawaii.
As a result, mesothelioma lawsuits have been filed by affected individuals seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Mesothelioma lawyers in Hawaii specialize in representing victims of asbestos exposure, advocating for their rights in legal proceedings, and holding responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Raising awareness of asbestos hazards and ensuring access to legal recourse are crucial steps in protecting the health and well-being of Hawaii’s workers and residents.
History of Asbestos Exposure in Hawaii

In Hawaii, asbestos exposure has been deeply intertwined with various industries, spanning construction, shipbuilding, military installations, and agriculture. Throughout the 20th century, asbestos was commonly used in construction materials like insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement products, posing risks to workers during building projects and renovations.
Shipbuilding and repair yards in Honolulu and Pearl Harbor relied heavily on asbestos in naval and commercial vessels. Workers involved in ship construction, repair, and maintenance faced consistent exposure to asbestos dust and fibers, often lacking proper protection or awareness of health risks.
Military installations, including Pearl Harbor, utilized asbestos extensively in buildings, aircraft, and vehicles, exposing personnel to occupational hazards during construction and maintenance tasks. Additionally, Hawaii’s agricultural sector, dominated by sugar and pineapple plantations, used asbestos in equipment and infrastructure, increasing exposure risks for workers during farming operations and facility upkeep. Despite regulatory efforts, cases of asbestos-related diseases persist, highlighting the ongoing need for mitigation strategies to protect the health of Hawaii’s workers and residents.
Who Qualifies for Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, individuals seeking compensation for asbestos exposure, particularly related to mesothelioma, must meet specific criteria:
Diagnosis: A formal diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestos-related diseases by a licensed medical professional is necessary to initiate legal action.
Exposure History: Providing evidence of exposure to asbestos due to negligence from manufacturers, companies, or products is crucial. Detailed documentation of where and when the exposure occurred within Hawaii is essential.
Legal Assistance: Consulting with an experienced attorney specializing in asbestos-related cases is highly recommended. They can assist in gathering necessary documents, building a strong case, and representing individuals in court if needed.
Timely Filing: It’s essential to file asbestos trust fund claims or mesothelioma lawsuits within Hawaii’s statute of limitations to ensure eligibility for compensation.
Securing Compensation: Compensation is crucial for covering medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress caused by asbestos-related illnesses. Seeking guidance from professionals familiar with Hawaii’s legal process ensures individuals receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.
These guidelines ensure that individuals in Hawaii affected by asbestos exposure can navigate the legal process effectively and receive the compensation they need to cope with the consequences of their illness.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Hawaii
What is asbestos, and why is it a concern in Hawaii?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance and durability. In Hawaii, it was widely used in various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, and agriculture. Its extensive use has led to concerns about potential exposure and associated health risks.
How does asbestos exposure occur in Hawaii?
Asbestos exposure in Hawaii primarily occurs through inhalation or ingestion of microscopic asbestos fibers. Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, military installations, and agriculture are at risk, particularly when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed during activities like renovation, repair, or demolition.
What health risks are associated with asbestos exposure in Hawaii?
Exposure to asbestos in Hawaii can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. These diseases often have a long latency period, with symptoms typically appearing years or even decades after initial exposure.
What are mesothelioma lawsuits, and who can file them in Hawaii?
Mesothelioma lawsuits are legal actions filed by individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma seeking compensation for damages resulting from asbestos exposure. In Hawaii, individuals who can provide evidence of exposure to asbestos due to negligence from manufacturers, companies, or products may be eligible to file such lawsuits.
What compensation can be sought in mesothelioma lawsuits in Hawaii?
Individuals filing mesothelioma lawsuits in Hawaii may seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. The goal is to provide financial support to cover the costs associated with asbestos-related illnesses and to hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
How can individuals in Hawaii pursue legal action for asbestos exposure-related illnesses?
For individuals in Hawaii seeking to pursue legal action for asbestos exposure-related illnesses like mesothelioma, it’s essential to consult with experienced attorneys specializing in asbestos litigation. These attorneys can provide guidance, gather necessary evidence, and represent individuals in court to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.
What steps should individuals take if they suspect asbestos exposure-related illness in Hawaii?
If individuals in Hawaii suspect they have developed an illness due to asbestos exposure, such as mesothelioma, they should seek medical attention immediately. They should also consult with legal professionals to explore their options for seeking compensation through mesothelioma lawsuits or asbestos trust fund claims. Early intervention is crucial for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.
Hawaii Asbestos Exposure Hot Spots
More than 60 tons of asbestos shipments were received in the state of Hawaii. High asbestos exposure was in Honolulu County, Hawaii County and Kauai County.
Shipyard Facilities: Shipyard facilities in Honolulu County pose significant asbestos exposure risks due to the historical use of asbestos-containing materials in ship construction and repair. Workers involved in maintenance and demolition tasks are particularly vulnerable to airborne asbestos fibers.
Construction Sites: Construction sites across Hawaii County are potential hotspots for asbestos exposure, as many older buildings contain asbestos insulation, roofing materials, and floor tiles. Disturbance of these materials during renovation or demolition activities can release harmful asbestos fibers into the air.
Automotive Repair Shops: Automotive repair shops in Maui County often encounter asbestos exposure risks due to the presence of asbestos-containing brake pads, gaskets, and clutches in older vehicles. Mechanics performing brake repairs or vehicle maintenance tasks may inadvertently release asbestos fibers into their working environment.
Industrial Factories: Industrial factories in Kauai County, such as manufacturing plants and refineries, historically used asbestos in machinery insulation and building materials. Workers involved in equipment maintenance and repair face potential asbestos exposure during routine operations.
Power Plants: Power plants located throughout Kalawao County may harbor asbestos-containing materials in boilers, turbines, and piping systems. Maintenance workers performing repairs or inspections in these facilities are at risk of asbestos exposure if proper precautions are not taken.
Agricultural Processing Facilities: Agricultural processing facilities in Lanai County, including sugar mills and pineapple canneries, may contain asbestos insulation in their equipment and structures. Workers involved in equipment maintenance and facility upgrades may encounter asbestos exposure hazards.
Mining Operations: Molokai County’s mining operations, such as sand and gravel quarries, may expose workers to asbestos-containing materials present in rock formations. Dust generated during mining activities has the potential to release asbestos fibers into the air, posing health risks to workers.
Refineries: Oahu County’s refineries and petrochemical plants utilize asbestos in high-temperature equipment insulation and pipe insulation. Maintenance personnel and contractors working in these facilities face potential asbestos exposure during shutdowns, turnarounds, and equipment repairs.
Construction Material Manufacturing: Niihau County’s construction material manufacturing plants, producing products like cement, tiles, and insulation, may incorporate asbestos into their formulations. Factory workers handling raw materials or manufacturing processes may encounter asbestos exposure risks.
Demolition Contractors: Kahoolawe County’s demolition contractors tasked with dismantling older structures must exercise caution to avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials. Without proper asbestos abatement procedures, demolition activities can release airborne asbestos fibers, endangering workers and bystanders.
Automotive Manufacturing Plants: Hilo County’s automotive manufacturing plants, producing vehicles and automotive components, may utilize asbestos-containing materials in brake systems and vehicle insulation. Assembly line workers and maintenance personnel are at risk of asbestos exposure during manufacturing processes.
Aerospace Facilities: Lahaina County’s aerospace facilities, engaged in aircraft maintenance and repair, may encounter asbestos-containing materials in older aircraft components and insulation. Technicians performing aircraft maintenance tasks are potentially exposed to asbestos fibers, necessitating strict safety protocols.
Hawaii Mesothelioma Statistics (Asbestos-Related Deaths)
- Hawaii ranks 45th in the U. S. for deaths from malignant Mesothelioma.
- The mortality rate from Mesothelioma in Hawaii is 7.7 per million.
- 135 Hawaii residents died from malignant Mesothelioma.
- 193 asbestos-related deaths were reported in Hawaii since 1979.
- Honolulu, HI has more than 157 asbestos-related deaths and more than 105 Mesothelioma Deaths.
Hawaii Mesothelioma Asbestos Deaths
- Hawaii Asbestos-Related Deaths 747
- Hawaii Asbestosis Cancer Deaths 54
- Hawaii Mesothelioma Cancer Deaths 139
- Hawaii Estimated-Asbestos Cancer Deaths 556
*Statistics on Mesothelioma and asbestos related deaths were compiled from CDC (Center for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics), and NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) and other cancer reporting sources.
Mesothelioma Facts and Statistics
- More than 20 million American workers have been exposed to asbestos.
- Mesothelioma cases are found in 9 out of every 1 million people.
- 3,000 new cases of Mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the U. S.
- Each year in U. S 10,000 Americans will die from an asbestos related disease.
- 30% of U. S. Veterans will develop an asbestos-related disease in their lifetime.
- 1 in 125 U. S. males who live over the age of 50 will die from an asbestos-related disease.
- Experts believe 60,000 Malignant Mesothelioma deaths will occur between 2010 and 2030.
Hawaii Military Veterans and Asbestos Exposure
- Military Veterans that have a 1 in 3 chance of developing an asbestos related disease in their lifetime. Veterans have the right to bring lawsuits against negligent asbestos companies for exposing them to toxic asbestos-containing products and materials.
- There are 21.5 million current living Veterans according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans who served between 1940 and 1970 have the greatest risk of developing Mesothelioma or an asbestos-related cancer. Navy Veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War have the highest incidence of Asbestos-related diseases.
- The U.S. Military used thousands of asbestos-containing products in their ships between the 1920-late 1970’s. 14 in every 1,000 WW II shipyard workers died of an asbestos-related disease compared to 18 in every 1,000 combat related deaths.
- Mesothelioma primarily occurs in Veterans between the ages of 55-75.
Asbestos was listed as the top contaminant at 32 U.S. Army base closures during the 1990s.
A recent study showed that as many as 30-40% of Mesothelioma victims is U. S. Veterans.
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Asbestos Trust Funds and Mesothelioma Claims
U.S. Asbestos Bankruptcy Trusts have disbursed nearly $21 billion to over 600,000 asbestos claimants, with approximately 60 active Trust Funds still holding an estimated $32 billion in combined assets. These Trust Funds were established to provide compensation to workers and families affected by asbestos exposure, including those diagnosed with Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. When a company establishes an Asbestos Trust Fund, settlements are overseen by trustees who determine compensation amounts for Mesothelioma claimants. This process allows asbestos defendants to seek protection through bankruptcy reorganization while still meeting their financial obligations.
Asbestos Trust Fund settlements typically do not entail an admission of guilt by the company responsible for setting up the trust. Individuals with a history of asbestos exposure are advised to undergo regular check-ups by qualified medical professionals to monitor their health status. For over two decades, we have been assisting victims of asbestos exposure and their families in navigating the legal complexities associated with Mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Malignant Mesothelioma or an asbestos-related illness, our experienced Mesothelioma lawyers are ready to help you file a claim and advocate for your rights.
Malignant Mesothelioma cases in Hawaii are frequently linked to workplace asbestos exposure, underscoring the importance of seeking legal recourse and financial compensation through Asbestos Trust Funds for affected individuals and their families.
Asbestos Exposure in Hawaii
Asbestos was used heavily in U. S. building trades between 1930-1980. More than 3,000 commonly used products in Hawaii contained toxic asbestos fibers and materials.
Hawaii Workers and Residents that were exposed to asbestos are at higher risk (7 times) than the general population for being diagnosed with Mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease in their lifetime.
It can take 10-50 years after initial asbestos exposure before symptoms of Mesothelioma may appear. People that were exposed to asbestos in Hawaii decades ago are walking time bombs. There is no clear way of knowing if a person will develop Mesothelioma, but most people diagnosed are around 70 years of age.
If you worked in an industry in Hawaii that exposed you to deadly asbestos fibers a Mesothelioma lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical expenses resulting from a Mesothelioma cancer diagnosis.
When asbestos is disturbed, broken apart, cut, decayed, or damaged, it releases tiny asbestos microscopic fibrous particles that can cling to the skin, hair and clothing. These asbestos fibers are easily transferred to others where they can accumulate in the lining of lungs that cause Mesothelioma lung cancer.
Asbestos Exposure in Hawaii Cities
Hawaii is home to several cities where asbestos exposure has been a significant concern due to aging infrastructure and industrial activities. Cities like Honolulu, Hilo, and Kailua-Kona have a history of asbestos use in industries such as construction, shipping, and manufacturing. Workers and residents in these urban areas may have faced potential exposure to asbestos fibers from various sources, including buildings, machinery, and equipment. Renovation and demolition projects in older structures continue to pose risks of asbestos exposure, highlighting the importance of awareness and proper safety protocols to mitigate health hazards.
Hawaii County, HI: Workers and residents in Hawaii County faced asbestos exposure primarily in construction, shipyards, and industrial plants where asbestos-containing materials were used.
Honolulu County, HI: Honolulu County had significant asbestos exposure risks in shipyards, power plants, and construction projects where asbestos-containing materials were prevalent.
Kalawao County, HI: Kalawao County had fewer industries, but asbestos exposure could occur in construction and renovation projects involving older structures containing asbestos materials.
Kauai County, HI: In Kauai County, asbestos exposure was common in construction and shipyards, where asbestos-containing materials were widely used.
Maui County, HI: Maui County saw asbestos exposure risks primarily in construction, manufacturing, and industrial facilities where asbestos materials were employed.
Understanding these exposure risks is essential for protecting the health of those who may have been exposed to asbestos in various industries and settings across Hawaii.
Asbestos Exposure in Hawaii Counties
Asbestos exposure isn’t limited to urban areas in Hawaii but spreads to multiple counties across the islands. Counties like Honolulu, Hawaii, and Maui have documented instances of asbestos-related illnesses stemming from industrial operations and aging infrastructure. Employees in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and maritime industries encounter heightened asbestos exposure risks in numerous Hawaiian counties. Taking steps to tackle asbestos dangers via strategies like abatement and legal actions is imperative for safeguarding the health of residents and employees across Hawaii’s counties.
Ewa Gentry, HI: Asbestos exposure in Ewa Gentry could occur in construction projects and older buildings with asbestos materials.
Hilo, HI: Workers and residents in Hilo faced asbestos exposure primarily in construction, shipyards, and industrial plants where asbestos-containing materials were used.
Honolulu, HI: Honolulu had significant asbestos exposure risks in shipyards, power plants, construction projects, and older buildings where asbestos-containing materials were prevalent.
Kahului, HI: In Kahului, asbestos exposure was common in construction, manufacturing, and industrial facilities where asbestos materials were employed.
Kailua, HI: Kailua saw asbestos exposure primarily in construction and renovation projects involving older structures containing asbestos materials.
Kaneohe, HI: Asbestos exposure in Kaneohe could occur in construction, shipyards, and industrial plants where asbestos-containing materials were widely used.
Kapolei, HI: In Kapolei, asbestos exposure risks were prevalent in construction and manufacturing settings.
Kihei, HI: Kihei had asbestos exposure risks primarily associated with the presence of asbestos in construction materials used in various projects.
Makakilo, HI: Workers and residents in Makakilo faced asbestos exposure primarily in construction projects and older buildings with asbestos materials.
Mililani Mauka, HI: Asbestos exposure in Mililani Mauka could occur in construction and renovation projects involving older structures containing asbestos materials.
Mililani, HI: In Mililani, asbestos exposure was common in construction, manufacturing, and industrial facilities where asbestos-containing materials were employed.
Pearl City, HI: Pearl City had significant asbestos exposure risks in shipyards, power plants, construction projects, and older buildings where asbestos-containing materials were prevalent.
Schofield Barracks, HI: Workers and residents in Schofield Barracks faced asbestos exposure primarily in construction, shipyards, and industrial plants where asbestos-containing materials were used.
Wahiawa, HI: In Wahiawa, asbestos exposure could occur in construction and renovation projects involving older structures containing asbestos materials.
Wailuku, HI: Asbestos exposure in Wailuku was common in construction, manufacturing, and industrial facilities where asbestos-containing materials were employed.
Waipahu, HI: Waipahu had significant asbestos exposure risks in shipyards, power plants, construction projects, and older buildings where asbestos-containing materials were prevalent.
Understanding these exposure risks is crucial for protecting the health of those who may have been exposed to asbestos in various industries and settings across Hawaii.
Asbestos Cover up – Quotes from Asbestos Executives

Evidence in thousands of court documents have shown that asbestos companies hid and destroyed memos, documents and ignored doctor’s medical reports about the dangers of asbestos exposure. Despite all the information about the deadly dangers of asbestos exposure available in the scientific and medical literature asbestos companies chose not to take any action to protect workers.
They chose profit over the safety of their workers and then lied and covered it up. This is why U. S. Courts are making asbestos manufacturers and companies pay millions to asbestos victims for their asbestos cover up.
“…if you have enjoyed a good life while working with asbestos products, why not die from it.” 1966 memo from an executive of the Bendix Corporation (now part of Honeywell)
In early 1940s, the president of Johns-Manville called the managers of another company “a bunch of fools for notifying employees who had asbestosis.” When asked by another company executive, “Do you mean to tell me you would let them work until they drop dead?” he responded, “Yes. We save a lot of money that way.”
What is Mesothelioma Cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other major organs in the body. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cancer cells in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). In the United States, approximately 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. If you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
If you or a family member has received a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, you probably have numerous questions about managing the illness and pursuing legal recourse against asbestos manufacturers and companies accountable for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is an extremely lethal disease, with an average survival time of 4-18 months, as per the American Cancer Society. Reach out to our toll-free number now to connect with a live mesothelioma counselor who can address many of your inquiries and offer you the reassurance you seek.
Family Member Died from Mesothelioma?
If you have a family member who has died from Mesothelioma cancer, you should immediately consult with an experienced Mesothelioma diagnosis lawyer about what compensation may be available to you from asbestos trust funds that total more than $30 billion.
We have seen many families lose their right to file a lawsuit because their Statute of Limitations had expired while they were grieving. We know it is a tough time to grieve the loss of a loved one, but please do not let your Statute of Limitations expire for filing your Mesothelioma lawsuit. In most states, the Statute of Limitations is 1-3 years.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you file your Mesothelioma claim within your state’s Statute of Limitations.
Taking Legal Action
When confronted with the devastating impact of a mesothelioma diagnosis resulting from asbestos exposure, pursuing legal action becomes a crucial step towards securing the compensation you rightly deserve. Our team is here to assist you in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, ensuring the protection of your rights and the delivery of justice. Discover today which Asbestos Trust Funds you may be eligible for to receive compensation.
Schedule a FREE Case Consultation
Scheduling a free case consultation is your first step toward seeking justice in mesothelioma cancer lawsuits. We are ready to assess your unique situation and provide the guidance you will need during this challenging time. Take this essential step toward pursuing fair compensation for your mesothelioma-related injuries.
Get Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
When dealing with the complexities of mesothelioma cancer lawsuits, getting help from an experienced injury attorney is crucial. For more than 24 years, we have assisted workers, veterans, and families in obtaining the compensation they deserved from negligent asbestos companies. Contact us at 888.640.0914 to secure the support you will need throughout your pursuit of fair and just compensation.
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Hawaii, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits