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For most of the twentieth century, asbestos was commonly used in the shipbuilding industry. As a result, countless shipyard workers were exposed to the carcinogenic material and are now developing deadly diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Asbestos Widely Used in Shipbuilding
The physical characteristics of asbestos made it ideal for use in various construction materials and, consequently, in shipbuilding and repair. During time of war, particularly World War II, shipbuilding was essential and shipyards were extremely busy, employing hundreds of men and women throughout the country.
Asbestos exposure at shipyards affected workers who:
• worked in boiler rooms or machine rooms
• sprayed insulation
• worked with gaskets, fireproofing, plumbing and electrical repair
• more
Asbestos Harmful to Workers
Any shipyard workers who were employed on site before asbestos was officially banned in the U.S. during the 1970’s were most likely exposed to the hazardous material. Asbestos was most harmful to workers who were involved in repairing damaged ships. These workers were at a higher risk than others due to the fact that these ships typically contained asbestos products that had been damaged. In these types of situations, the chances of asbestos fibers becoming airborne significantly increased.
Some shipyards were so contaminated with asbestos that even those who didn’t handle the material directly were at risk of inhalation. The asbestos dust on shipyard workers’ clothing could be transferred to others and was sometimes even brought home to their families.
Asbestos-Related Diseases
Asbestos exposure at shipyards is a primary reason why so many Americans are now showing evidence of diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis. These illnesses typically take years to develop, sometimes 50 years after the initial exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos Exposure at Shipyards: A Preventable Problem
Mesothelioma, as with other forms of cancer linked to asbestos exposure, could have been avoided had these employees been given protective clothing and equipment and been warned regarding the dangers of asbestos.
However, many workers were not educated on the dangers of asbestos or given safety guidelines by their employers to follow.
Contact Us Today
If you were exposed to asbestos at a shipyard and you’ve developed mesothelioma or related illness, contact us today to learn more about your options. You may be eligible for compensation to help cover your treatment costs.