Navy Shipyards, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Navy shipyards are essential hubs in our maritime history, known for their role in building and maintaining naval vessels. However, hidden within their significant past is a dangerous threat – asbestos. Once thought to be beneficial for its fire-resistant properties, asbestos was widely used in shipbuilding materials such as insulation, gaskets, and fireproof coatings. Unfortunately, the health risks of asbestos exposure were not fully understood at the time.
Over time, the harmful effects of asbestos became evident, particularly in the form of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer associated with asbestos inhalation. Shipyard workers, who worked in environments contaminated with asbestos during construction, repairs, and renovations, were among those most affected.
In response to this health crisis, mesothelioma lawsuits arose, seeking justice for victims and their families. These legal actions aimed to hold accountable those responsible for negligently exposing individuals to asbestos, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The history of asbestos exposure in Navy shipyards serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of workplace safety measures and corporate responsibility. While strides have been made to reduce asbestos use and improve worker protection, the lasting impact of past exposure underscores the ongoing need for awareness, advocacy, and support for those affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
History of Asbestos Exposure and Naval Shipyards

The history of asbestos exposure in naval shipyards dates back to the early 20th century. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance and durability, was widely used in shipbuilding due to its fire-retardant properties. Its incorporation into naval ship construction was meant to enhance the safety of ships, especially during wartime. Asbestos was utilized in various forms, including insulation, gaskets, pipes, and fireproof coatings.
During World War II and the years that followed, naval shipyards saw a significant increase in ship production and repair activities. As a result, countless workers were exposed to asbestos-containing materials while constructing and refurbishing naval vessels. Unfortunately, at the time, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure were not well understood.
Decades later, the devastating consequences of asbestos exposure began to surface. Workers who had spent years in naval shipyards started developing serious health issues, particularly mesothelioma, a deadly cancer linked to asbestos exposure. This led to a wave of lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers and the establishment of asbestos trust funds to provide compensation to affected individuals.
The history of asbestos exposure in naval shipyards serves as a somber reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the need for stringent regulations to protect workers from hazardous materials. While efforts have been made to minimize asbestos use in shipbuilding, the legacy of past exposure continues to impact the lives of those affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
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FAQs About Naval Shipyard Workers, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Why is asbestos exposure a concern for shipyard workers?
Asbestos was used in shipbuilding because it’s fire-resistant and strong. But when old ships get repaired or taken apart, asbestos can get into the air. Breathing it in can lead to mesothelioma, a serious illness.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma, and how is it diagnosed?
Mesothelioma symptoms can include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and weight loss. Doctors diagnose it through tests like X-rays and biopsies.
Can shipyard workers file mesothelioma lawsuits?
Yes, shipyard workers who develop mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure can file lawsuits against companies that used asbestos. These lawsuits aim to get compensation for medical bills and suffering.
What is an asbestos trust fund, and how can I access it?
Asbestos trust funds were set up by companies that used asbestos. To access them, you need to gather proof of asbestos exposure, like work records and medical reports. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you navigate the process and file a claim.
Is there support available for shipyard workers dealing with mesothelioma?
Yes, there is help. Mesothelioma lawyers specialize in cases like these and can guide you through the legal process to get the compensation you deserve. Your health is crucial, and these funds are designed to assist you during this challenging time.
U.S. Navy Shipyard Personnel and Asbestos Exposure:
U.S. Navy shipyard personnel typically included a wide range of roles, each critical to the maintenance, repair, and construction of naval vessels. Here are some of the key personnel categories and roles:
- Engineers: Responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing ship repair and construction projects.
- Naval Architects
- Mechanical Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Civil Engineers
- Technicians and Specialists: Hands-on workers who carried out specific technical tasks.
- Electricians
- Pipefitters
- Welders
- Machinists
- Carpenters
- Plumbers
- Supervisors and Foremen: Personnel who managed teams and ensured project goals and deadlines were met.
- Shop Supervisors
- Foremen
- Maintenance Workers: Involved in routine maintenance and repairs of ship systems and infrastructure.
- Maintenance Mechanics
- HVAC Technicians
- Inspectors and Quality Control: Ensured that all work met Navy standards and specifications.
- Quality Control Inspectors
- Safety Inspectors
- Support Staff: Provided administrative and logistical support to shipyard operations.
- Administrative Assistants
- Supply Chain Managers
- Logistics Coordinators
- Dock Workers: Involved in the docking and undocking of ships, as well as other heavy manual labor.
- Riggers
- Dockworkers
- Crane Operators
- Security Personnel: Ensured the safety and security of the shipyard.
- Security Officers
- Military Police
- Environmental and Safety Specialists: Managed environmental compliance and workplace safety.
- Environmental Engineers
- Safety Officers
- Medical and Emergency Personnel: Provided healthcare and emergency response services within the shipyard.
- Medical Officers
- EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians)
Each of these roles was essential for the efficient operation of Navy shipyards, ensuring that naval vessels were kept in top condition and ready for deployment.
Navy Shipyards with Asbestos Exposure

Shipyards, vital hubs of maritime industry, harbored a hidden danger within their infrastructure: asbestos. The extensive use of asbestos-containing materials in shipbuilding and repair exposed countless workers to this hazardous substance. From insulation to fireproofing, asbestos was omnipresent, releasing toxic fibers into the air during construction, maintenance, and dismantling activities. Despite later safety measures, the enduring health impacts persist, underscoring the profound legacy of asbestos exposure in shipyard environments. Recognizing this legacy is pivotal for addressing the ongoing health concerns of those who labored in shipyards and ensuring robust asbestos management strategies for future maritime endeavors.
Avondale Shipyards: Workers at Avondale Shipyards may have been exposed to asbestos during ship construction and repair, as asbestos materials were used for insulation and fireproofing.
Bath Iron Works (BIW): Employees at Bath Iron Works could have faced asbestos exposure during ship construction and repair due to the use of asbestos-containing materials for insulation and fireproofing.
Bethlehem Steel Shipyard: Workers in Bethlehem Steel Shipyard might have faced asbestos exposure through the extensive use of asbestos-containing materials in shipbuilding, insulation, and repair work.
Charleston Naval Shipyard: Shipyard workers at Charleston Naval Shipyard may have been at risk of asbestos exposure during ship maintenance and repair activities, where asbestos-containing materials were commonly used.
Electric Boat (General Dynamics Electric Boat): Workers at Electric Boat might have encountered asbestos exposure while building and repairing submarines, as asbestos insulation was used for heat and fire protection.
Huntington Ingalls Industries (formerly Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding): Shipyard workers at Huntington Ingalls Industries may have encountered asbestos exposure during the construction and maintenance of naval ships, where asbestos-containing materials were used for various purposes.
Kaiser Shipyards: Shipyard employees at Kaiser Shipyards may have been exposed to asbestos during ship construction and repair, as asbestos materials were used for insulation and fireproofing.
Marinette Marine Shipyard: Employees at Marinette Marine Shipyard could have faced asbestos exposure through shipbuilding and repair work, where asbestos-containing materials were used in various applications.
Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company: Employees at Newport News Shipbuilding could have been exposed to asbestos while working on naval vessels, as asbestos insulation was commonly used to fireproof and insulate ships.
Norfolk Naval Shipyard: Shipyard workers at Norfolk Naval Shipyard may have been at risk of asbestos exposure during ship overhauls and maintenance activities, where asbestos insulation and materials were commonly utilized.
Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard: Shipyard workers at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard may have been exposed to asbestos during maintenance activities on naval vessels, where asbestos materials were used for insulation and fire protection.
Philadelphia Naval Shipyard: Employees at Philadelphia Naval Shipyard could have encountered asbestos exposure during ship overhauls and repair work, where asbestos insulation and materials were prevalent.
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard: Workers at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard might have been exposed to asbestos through their involvement in repairing and maintaining naval vessels, where asbestos insulation and materials were prevalent.
San Francisco Naval Shipyard: Workers at San Francisco Naval Shipyard might have faced asbestos exposure during ship maintenance and repair, as asbestos insulation and materials were commonly employed.
Seattle Shipyard: Employees at Seattle Shipyard might have faced asbestos exposure during shipbuilding and repair work, as asbestos-containing materials were used for insulation and fireproofing.
Todd Shipyards: Workers at Todd Shipyards might have faced asbestos exposure during ship construction and repair, as asbestos materials were used for insulation and fireproofing.
Vancouver Shipyards: Workers at Vancouver Shipyards may have been exposed to asbestos during ship construction and repair
Washington Navy Yard: Shipyard workers at Washington Navy Yard may have encountered asbestos exposure during ship maintenance and repair activities, where asbestos-containing materials were used in various applications.
Willamette Iron and Steel Works: Employees at Willamette Iron and Steel Works could have faced asbestos exposure during shipbuilding and repair due to the use of asbestos-containing materials for insulation and fireproofing.
Yarrow Shipbuilders: Employees at Yarrow Shipbuilders could have faced asbestos exposure during ship construction and repair due to the use of asbestos-containing materials for insulation and fireproofing.
Yokosuka Naval Arsenal: Workers at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal may have been exposed to asbestos during ship construction and maintenance activities, as asbestos-containing materials were used in various parts of the ships.
Yokosuka Naval Shipyard: Shipyard workers at Yokosuka Naval Shipyard may have encountered asbestos exposure during ship repair and maintenance, where asbestos-containing materials were used in the construction of naval vessels.
Zidell Marine Corporation: Workers at Zidell Marine Corporation may have been exposed to asbestos during shipbuilding and repair activities, as asbestos materials were commonly used for insulation and fireproofing.
Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex: Shipyard workers at Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex may have encountered asbestos exposure during ship construction and repair, where asbestos-containing materials were used in various applications.
Shipyard Workers with Asbestos Exposure
Shipyard workers face significant risks of asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in ship construction, repair, and maintenance. Asbestos was commonly used for insulation, fireproofing, and other applications in ships, exposing workers to airborne asbestos fibers during their daily tasks. Handling, cutting, drilling, or disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release these fibers into the air, where they can be easily inhaled by workers. This occupational exposure puts shipyard workers at risk of developing serious asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Boilermakers: Repairing and building boilers with asbestos-containing materials resulted in significant asbestos exposure.
Carpenters: Carpenters working on ship interiors encountered asbestos-containing construction materials.
Crane Mechanics: Mechanics repairing and maintaining cranes near asbestos materials faced exposure.
Crane Operators: Operating cranes near asbestos materials exposed operators to fibers.
Electricians: Electricians handling electrical systems wrapped in asbestos-containing materials faced exposure.
Environmental Inspectors: Inspectors monitoring asbestos compliance faced potential exposure.
Foremen: Foremen overseeing asbestos-related tasks faced exposure risks on-site.
Forensic Investigators: Investigating asbestos-related incidents in shipyards could lead to exposure.
Forensic Scientists: Scientists examining asbestos-related cases may have faced exposure during investigations.
HVAC Technicians: Working on ship heating and cooling systems with asbestos components exposed technicians.
Industrial Hygienists: Hygienists assessing asbestos hazards in shipyards were at risk of exposure.
Maintenance Workers: General ship maintenance workers were exposed during routine repairs.
Marine Surveyors: Surveyors assessing ships for asbestos hazards risked exposure.
Material Handlers: Handlers moving asbestos-containing materials faced direct exposure.
Naval Architects: Architects designing ships with asbestos components faced exposure risks.
Occupational Health Specialists: Specialists managing health programs in asbestos-exposed shipyards faced potential risks.
Painters: Preparing surfaces for painting often involved working near asbestos-containing materials.
Pipefitters: Installing and repairing pipes containing asbestos insulation exposed pipefitters to asbestos fibers.
Plumbers: Plumbers dealt with asbestos-insulated pipes and fixtures, increasing the risk of exposure.
Quality Control Inspectors: Inspectors checking ship components could be exposed to asbestos.
Riggers: Riggers working with equipment near asbestos-containing materials were exposed.
Shipyard Administrators: Administrative staff present in asbestos-contaminated shipyards faced potential exposure.
Shipyard Designers: Designers incorporating asbestos materials into ship plans faced exposure.
Shipyard Doctors: Doctors treating shipyard workers may have faced asbestos-related cases.
Shipyard Engineers: Engineers involved in ship design and maintenance were exposed through asbestos use in construction.
Shipyard Managers: Managers responsible for shipyard operations could face exposure in shipyards using asbestos.
Shipyard Medics: Medics providing first aid in asbestos-exposed areas faced potential exposure.
Shipyard Nurses: Nurses providing medical care in asbestos-exposed environments faced risks.
Shipyard Paramedics: Paramedics responding to emergencies in asbestos-contaminated sites risked exposure.
Shipyard Safety Inspectors: Inspectors monitoring safety may have been exposed to asbestos during evaluations.
Shipyard Supervisors: Supervisors overseeing construction projects may have been exposed through close contact with asbestos materials.
Shipping Clerks: Clerks handling documentation in asbestos-contaminated shipyards faced potential exposure.
Sheet Metal Workers: Fabricating and repairing metal components alongside asbestos materials led to exposure.
Steamfitters: Repairing steam systems with asbestos insulation resulted in exposure.
Welders: Welders in shipyards often worked on asbestos-insulated pipes and materials, leading to exposure during cutting and welding.
Welding Inspectors: Inspectors overseeing welding processes with asbestos materials risked exposure.
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Asbestos Products Commonly Used on Navy Shipyards
Naval shipyards, pivotal centers of maritime construction and repair, have a concerning history of asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing products. Asbestos insulation, gaskets, pipes, and fireproofing were commonly utilized in these facilities, posing significant health risks to workers. Tasks such as pipefitting, welding, and boiler maintenance put workers at direct risk of inhaling asbestos fibers. Over time, the disturbance or deterioration of these materials released microscopic particles into the air, leading to severe health issues like mesothelioma and lung cancer. Despite efforts to address the issue, the impact of asbestos in navy shipyards underscores the ongoing need for stringent safety measures and constant monitoring to safeguard workers’ health in these critical maritime environments.
Asbestos Adhesives: Applying asbestos adhesives for insulation or construction exposed workers to asbestos particles.
Asbestos Boiler Insulation: Maintaining or repairing boilers with asbestos insulation exposed workers to asbestos.
Asbestos Boilersuit: Wearing asbestos-containing boilersuits for insulation exposed workers to asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Brake Linings: Mechanics working on vehicles with asbestos brake linings were exposed to asbestos dust.
Asbestos Brakes: Mechanics working on asbestos brake systems in vehicles and machinery were exposed.
Asbestos Caulk: Applying asbestos caulk for sealing purposes released asbestos particles.
Asbestos Cement: Handling asbestos cement sheets for construction and repairs exposed workers to asbestos dust.
Asbestos Cement Board: Cutting or handling asbestos cement boards for construction released asbestos dust.
Asbestos Ceiling Tiles: Workers handling asbestos ceiling tiles during installation or removal encountered asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Cloth: Handling asbestos cloth for insulation or protective clothing exposed workers to asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Duct Insulation: Workers installing or removing asbestos duct insulation faced direct asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Dust Collectors: Maintenance workers servicing asbestos-containing dust collectors risked exposure.
Asbestos Electrical Cloth: Electricians working with asbestos electrical cloth faced asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Filters: Workers handling asbestos filters in various applications faced asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Fire Blankets: Firefighters using asbestos fire blankets faced potential asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Fireproofing: Applying or removing asbestos fireproofing materials released asbestos fibers into the air.
Asbestos Flooring: Installing or removing asbestos-containing flooring materials released asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Gaskets: Workers involved in sealing joints and flanges using asbestos gaskets were exposed to asbestos particles.
Asbestos Gloves: Wearing asbestos gloves for insulation or protective purposes exposed workers to asbestos.
Asbestos Hoses: Handling asbestos hoses for various applications exposed workers to asbestos particles.
Asbestos Insulating Board: Workers cutting or handling asbestos insulating boards encountered asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Joint Compound: Applying or sanding asbestos joint compound exposed workers to asbestos particles.
Asbestos Millboard: Handling asbestos millboard for insulation or construction exposed workers to asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Packing: Workers handling asbestos packing for sealing purposes faced exposure to asbestos dust.
Asbestos Pipes: Pipefitters and plumbers working with asbestos-containing pipes encountered asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Pumps: Workers repairing or installing pumps with asbestos components encountered asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Respirators: Users of asbestos-containing respirators risked exposure to asbestos particles.
Asbestos Roofing: Roofers and construction workers handling asbestos roofing materials faced asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Rope: Workers using asbestos rope for various applications encountered asbestos dust.
Asbestos Seals: Workers using asbestos seals in machinery and equipment faced asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Spray Insulation: Applying asbestos spray insulation materials released airborne asbestos fibers.
Asbestos Spray Paint: Applying asbestos-containing spray paint materials exposed workers to asbestos dust.
Asbestos Steam Packing: Workers using asbestos steam packing materials encountered asbestos dust.
Asbestos Textiles: Textile workers handling asbestos fabrics and materials faced asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Tiles: Tile installers and removers were exposed to asbestos dust from asbestos-containing tiles.
Asbestos Valves: Repairing or installing valves with asbestos components led to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Welding Blankets: Welders using asbestos welding blankets for protection faced potential asbestos exposure.
Military Occupations and Asbestos Exposure
Military veterans face a 1 in 3 chance of developing diseases caused by asbestos exposure during their lifetime. Veterans have the right to file lawsuits against companies that negligently exposed them to toxic asbestos-containing products and materials.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there are currently 21.5 million living veterans. Those who served between 1940 and 1970 have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related cancers. Among them, Navy veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War have the highest rates of asbestos-related diseases.
The U.S. Military used thousands of asbestos-containing products in their ships from the 1920s to the late 1970s. Shockingly, statistics reveal that 14 out of every 1,000 World War II shipyard workers succumbed to asbestos-related diseases, compared to 18 out of every 1,000 combat-related deaths.
Mesothelioma primarily affects veterans aged between 55 and 75. Notably, asbestos was identified as the primary contaminant in 32 U.S. Army base closures during the 1990s. Recent studies have indicated that up to 30-40% of mesothelioma victims are U.S. veterans.
TO GET HELP – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
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.
There are More Than 30 Billion Dollars Set Aside for Mesothelioma and Asbestos Victims in Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Funds
What to Expect with a Free Mesothelioma Consultation
Expert Evaluation: Experienced attorneys will carefully review your case, including your medical history and asbestos exposure, to determine the strength of your claim.
Understanding Your Diagnosis: Attorneys will explain your mesothelioma diagnosis, its causes, and the potential legal options available to you.
Legal Guidance: You will receive expert legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you make informed decisions about pursuing legal action.
Eligibility Assessment: Attorneys will assess your eligibility for compensation, including potential asbestos trust fund claims, lawsuits, or other avenues for seeking damages.
Case Strategy: They will outline a personalized legal strategy, including the types of compensation you may be entitled to, such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Explaining the Process: You’ll gain insights into the legal process, including what to expect, key milestones, and approximate timelines.
Answering Questions: Attorneys will address any questions or concerns you have about your case, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your options.
Compassionate Support: You’ll receive empathetic and compassionate support as you navigate the complexities of a mesothelioma lawsuit.
No Upfront Costs: Importantly, a free consultation means there are no upfront fees or obligations, allowing you to explore your legal options risk-free.
Next Steps: Based on the consultation, you can decide on the next steps, whether to proceed with legal action or take other appropriate measures to seek justice and compensation for your mesothelioma diagnosis.
A mesothelioma consultation is an essential first step towards understanding your rights and potential legal recourse as you face the challenges of a mesothelioma diagnosis.
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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Navy Shipyards, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits