Caddell Dry Dock is a New York shipyard that once used asbestos and asbestos-containing products. Although the company no longer relies on asbestos, its long history of use has left many workers with malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
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.
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Did Caddell Dry Dock Use Asbestos?
Caddell Dry Dock has operated for over 100 years, dry docking and repairing both civilian and military ships. It operated during a time of peak asbestos use in the industry.
From about the 1930s to the 1970s, Caddell and other shipyards used asbestos to build and repair ships. They used asbestos mostly to insulate materials and protect against fire.
The use of asbestos in shipyards put workers at risk of developing fatal asbestos-related illnesses, such as malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.
Caddell Dry Dock History
Caddell Drydock and Repair Company Inc. was created in 1903 by a team that included a shipbuilder, accountant, and salesman. It got its name from the founding shipbuilder, John Caddell.
The shipyard is one of the oldest shipyards on the East Coast. It was one of the most productive shipyards in New York.
Caddell Dry Dock saw its most significant expansion and profitability during the 1930s. Although the Great Depression greatly affected the United States economy during this time, the U.S. government relied on shipyards to build and repair vessels.
The shipbuilding field was still one of the few thriving industries at the time. Caddell bought Larson Shipyard and Brighton Marine Shipyard in 1936, expanding its operations.
During the 1940s, the shipyard started focusing on the repair and service of boats. With six dry docks, the shipyard serviced hundreds of vessels during the war, including repairs, electrical work, painting, welding, coating, and much more.
How Did Caddell Dry Dock Use Asbestos?
Shipyards like Caddell used asbestos to construct and repair ships because it is an effective insulator and fireproofing material. During its time of peak use, asbestos was also inexpensive and abundant.
Asbestos went into hundreds of components and materials on ships, including:
- Insulation
- Pipe lagging
- Boilers
- Pumps
- Gaskets
- Valves
- Adhesives
- Textiles
- Rope
- Wall panels
- Ceiling tiles
Many shipyards also had asbestos insulation in their buildings. Machinery, equipment, and vehicles used in shipyards had asbestos in gaskets, insulation, and friction parts, like clutches and brake pads.
How Were Caddell Dry Dock Workers Affected By Asbestos?
Workers who handled asbestos had the highest risk of exposure. Disturbed asbestos materials release fibers that workers inhaled. In some workers, inhaled asbestos caused enough damage to lead to illnesses years later.
Lack of ventilation at the shipyard and asbestos in areas with high temperatures heightened the risk of developing illnesses.
For instance, many people worked in boiler rooms and engine rooms for numerous hours each day in poorly ventilated areas with airborne asbestos permeating all around them.
Some of the other shipyard workers at greatest risk of asbestos exposure were:
- Insulation workers
- Pipefitters
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Machine operators
- Mechanics
Does Caddell Dry Dock Use Asbestos Today?
Caddell Dry Dock is still operating today but no longer uses asbestos. Greater awareness of the harms of asbestos, as well as federal regulations, led to the decline of asbestos use in the 1970s.
The shipyard currently works with non-profit organizations to restore historical ships. One of the shipyard’s most notable projects includes a replica of Henry Hudson’s Half Moon.
Compensation for Caddell Dry Dock Workers with Mesothelioma
If you worked at Caddell Dry Dock during asbestos use, talk to a mesothelioma lawyer about your rights. If you have a mesothelioma diagnosis or another asbestos illness, you could be entitled to compensation.
One option is to file a lawsuit against the asbestos companies that supplied Caddell. Asbestos illnesses are often considered personal injuries because workplace exposure was negligent. You could get a substantial settlement from a lawsuit.
If the companies that affected you went bankrupt, you cannot sue them. You may, however, qualify for compensation from an asbestos trust fund. A lawyer can help you make a claim for compensation.
Help and Resources for Asbestos Victims
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.
