Ships and Asbestos

Before the late 1970s, most ships were built with asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (ACM). Over 250 ACMs went into thousands of U.S. Navy and civilian ships. Many veterans and former shipyard workers are now at risk for mesothelioma.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for substantial compensation. There is currently over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds set up for victims of asbestos-related diseases. Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.

Asbestos on Ships

Asbestos was used in numerous areas and places on ships. The toxic asbestos was so prevalent on ships that it was almost impossible for anyone who worked on or around vessels to avoid ingesting or inhaling the microscopic and colorless asbestos fibers.

Some of the common areas and parts on ships that contained asbestos include:

• Gaskets
• Packing materials
• Vessel paneling
• Insulation
• Cables
• Valves
• Boilers
• Tubes
• Adhesives
• Capacitors
• Deck materials, and more

Different Types of Ships That Contain Asbestos

Asbestos was used on many different types of vessels of all sizes. Between 1930 and the 1970s, almost all military ships were built with tons of asbestos.

Auxiliary Ships

During World War I, auxiliary ships acted as recreational vessels. When World War II started, the military began building them to help with war efforts, such as stocking up other vessels with food, equipment, and supplies.

Aircraft Carriers

Aircraft carriers are war vessels sent out to recover aircraft at sea and launch aircraft from the sea. These vessels eliminated the need to use local military bases to launch planes.

Amphibious Ships

Amphibious ships are responsible for transporting troops, food, and other supplies while withstanding enemy attacks during the wars. These types of vessels also helped during crises in World War II and today, such as humanitarian efforts and disaster relief operations.

Battleships

Battleships are some of the most powerful vessels ever to exist. During the wars, these vessels kept soldiers safe and attacked enemies. It was the primary attack vessel during World War II.

Submarines

Although submarines date back to the 1800s, during World War II, these vessels played their most important role in finding and destroying enemy vessels.

Navy Cruisers 

Navy cruisers are warships that helped during the nation’s wars by providing air defense, combat, and shore raiding. During World War II, Navy cruisers became the most powerful ships after battleships became obsolete.

Destroyers

Destroyers are high-endurance warships and the heaviest combat vessels in the United States. Destroyers were originally made to check on unattended ocean operations, but they turned into large guided ships with superior firing power after World War II.

Patrol Boats 

A patrol boat is a small vessel that served various purposes during World War I and World War II. Yet, their small size didn’t stop the military from using asbestos when constructing them. Numerous asbestos-containing products were used to build patrol boats, leading to veterans developing harmful diseases.

Frigates 

Frigates, larger than corvette vessels but smaller than cruisers, helped the military with submarine maritime enemies, as well as protection during shipping (POS). Frigates were reclassified in 1975.

Minesweepers 

Minesweepers are small yet powerful vessels that help the military find and neutralize mines in the sea and help create safe water pathways for other military ships.

How Asbestos Affects Shipbuilders and the Military

Many studies have shown that those who served in the military, particularly the United States Navy, are at a high risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. More than 30% of all diagnosed cases of mesothelioma in the nation are from people who served in the Navy.

The period during World War II produced some of the highest numbers of vessels in history. Workers had to build and repair ships at high speed while keeping costs as low as possible.

Asbestos was chosen to use in many vessel parts not only for its resistance to heat and fire but also for its affordability and ease of use.

In addition to building and repairing ships, shipyard workers were exposed to asbestos by building and repairing vessels. Asbestos fibers are thin, odorless, and easily become airborne. Once ingested, these fibers can lodge inside the body and are almost impossible to remove completely.

The military no longer uses asbestos in its vessels and has since taken precautions and removed many asbestos-containing products.

However, older vessels may still contain dangerous minerals, as safety issues become a significant concern when removing brittle, dried-out asbestos fibers.

Civilians contracted or employed to work at shipyards are also at significant risk of developing mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, and other asbestos illnesses.

Thousands of civilians built and repaired ships, especially during the wars. They face many of the same risks as sailors and others who served in the military.

Legal Rights For Those Who Worked On Asbestos-Containing Ships

You cannot sue the government for asbestos exposure, but qualified veterans can receive free medical care as well as monthly disability compensation. For more information on getting started, we invite you to contact us at 800-694-4856.

Even though you can’t file a mesothelioma lawsuit against the government, you can hold the manufacturers who supplied asbestos to the military responsible for malignant mesothelioma.

Many companies distributed several tons of asbestos to shipyards regularly before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) placed strict regulations on its use.

The majority of these asbestos suppliers knew and understood that asbestos was dangerous to humans, but instead of informing the public, they kept distributing it for profit.

Additional Resources and Help For Shipbuilders and Veterans

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, it’s important to understand your choices, legal rights, and medical options. You may be entitled to compensation for mesothelioma treatments, lost wages, physical pain, emotional suffering, and much more. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the experienced asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area.