Albina Shipyard

The Albina Shipyard, also called the Albina Engine and Machine Works Shipyard, was one of the first major shipyards established in Portland, Oregon. Albina used asbestos in its ships. This caused life-threatening illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and asbestos-related lung cancer, in many workers.

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. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more. 

Albina Shipyard History

Since its inception and up until 2009, Albina has been a household name in shipbuilding. World War II, in particular, helped increase the shipyard’s popularity after it produced a string of tugboats, sub chasers, landing craft, fireboats, warships, tankers, freighters, and barges.

After the war, Albina Shipyard began focusing on commercial vessels. Since the shipyard was already well-known for building excellent vessels, commercial success came quickly. Numerous ships were created, including ferries, barges, yachts, and tugboats for commercial use across the world.

Success continued for the shipyard throughout the 1960s, including building its own ferry that carried vehicles across the Columbia River. However, when the Astoria Bridge was built in 1966, the ferry, known as the Convoy, was retired.

Asbestos at Albina

Most vessels made in shipyards contained asbestos well into the 1970s. This set the stage for numerous lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers later on.

Asbestos was used in various areas, including throughout engine rooms, in sleeping quarters, in pipe insulation, boiler rooms, and more. More than 300 asbestos-containing products were used in Navy vessels alone.

In 1987, Cascade General purchased Albina Engine and Machine Works, but instead of changing its name, Cascade kept the Albina trademark name for many years.

However, over the course of the next numerous years, asbestos-related claims would taint the once popular and well-liked Albina name.

By 2009, Cascade General, facing the pressures of asbestos exposure becoming well-known at Albina Shipyard, decided to change the shipyard’s name. 

Albina Shipyard Health and Safety Hazards

Albina closed in 1987, and the business moved to the Cascade General Portland Shipyard. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) found extensive asbestos contamination on the 216-acre yard former site.

Not only was the site contaminated with asbestos, but also with oil, petroleum compounds, diesel fuel, and poison.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated the old shipyard area as an “orphan” site and never issued a funded cleanup.

Nevertheless, many lives were ruined, and numerous families were left without loved ones after the toxic effects of asbestos led to workers developing fatal illnesses.

Additional Information and Resources for Asbestos Victims and Their Families

If you’ve been injured by mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. 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. If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.