Alabama Dry Dock and Shipping Company (ADDSCO)

The Alabama Dry Dock and Shipping Company (ADDSCO) was one of the many shipyards in the U.S. that used asbestos in products, equipment, and machinery. Based in Mobile, Alabama, it was also once one of the largest marine production facilities in the nation.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for substantial compensation. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

Alabama Dry Dock and Shipping Company History

ADDSCO was founded in 1916 by the president of Alabama Iron Works, D. R. Dunlap, along with his cousin, George H. Dunlap. The duo merged several small dry dock companies that offered berths for shipping, ship repair facilities, and other maritime-related activities.

ADDSCO employed more than 4,000 people during World War I, ranging from welders, electricians, engineers, shipbuilders, and much more. When World War II began, the shipyard saw its greatest boom and focused almost exclusively on war efforts.

The shipyard became so huge that by 1943, over 30,000 people worked there in various jobs. The need for workers was so great that women were trained and hired to work as welders.

ADDSCO became well-known for building 20 Liberty ships, as well as over 100 oil tankers, including the Arickaree, the largest ship ever constructed along the U.S. Gulf Coast. ADDSCO also created over 2,000 combat vessels before the end of World War II.

After the war, many people were laid off as the shipyard slowed down its production of vessels. ADDSCO began focusing on repairing ships and various maritime projects until the 1980s, when a series of severe accidents and disasters put the shipyard’s future in danger.

In 1988, the shipyard closed permanently and was sold to numerous different companies.

Workers File Asbestos Lawsuits

A string of lawsuits plagued AADSCO afterward. The lawsuits were not only directed against the shipyard for pension-related issues but also against asbestos manufacturers.

Several employees filed a class-action lawsuit against the AADSCO in 1984. Most workers sued the manufacturing companies that provided the asbestos-containing products to the shipyard.

The lawsuits poured in after thousands upon thousands of former shipyard workers began developing fatal illnesses after working around asbestos-containing products.

Alabama Dry Dock Asbestos Products

Everything from boilers, sleeping quarters, pipes, and insulation were filled with asbestos.

When workers repaired ship parts, it typically required ripping out and then installing products with high amounts of asbestos. Asbestos fibers would then become loose, permeating the air.

When inhaled or ingested, asbestos fibers can lead to serious, life-threatening diseases.

Alabama Dry Dock Today

Although ADDSCO closed in the late 1980s, the shipyard re-opened under BAE Systems, and currently does vessel repairs, construction, and conversion.

Additional Help and Resources

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.