Orange Shipbuilding, now a part of Conrad Industries, used asbestos in its daily operations for many years. This put workers at risk of asbestos exposure. Some workers later developed asbestos illnesses, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
If you or a loved one suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, awaiting those who’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos illness. 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.
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Did Orange Shipbuilding Use Asbestos?
Yes, like other shipyards in the U.S., Orange Shipbuilding and its predecessors in the area used asbestos. Shipyards used asbestos mainly because of its insulating properties.
The use of asbestos in shipbuilding and repair did not stop until the late 1970s or early 1980s. This was when the dangers of asbestos became widely known, and federal regulations limited its use.
History of Orange Shipbuilding Company
Orange, Texas, has long been home to shipyards and a shipbuilding and repair industry. It began in 1859 when Samuel Levingston built the first shipyard in the area. By World War I, there were four shipyards in Orange:
- Orange Maritime Corporation
- Levingston Shipbuilding Company
- Weaver and Sons
- National Shipbuilding Company
Together, these shipyards played a major role in supplying the Navy with vessels for the war effort. The Navy also awarded the facilities numerous contracts during World War II. All of the existing shipyards in the area expanded during this time. The population of Orange grew from a few thousand to 70,000 people.
During the 1990s, Orange Shipbuilding expanded again and began shipping open lighters and tank barges to the U.S. Navy. In addition, the company started constructing towboats for the Corps of Engineers, eventually leading to Conrad Industries purchasing the shipping company in 1997.
Orange Shipbuilding and Asbestos Use
Orange shipyards used asbestos for many years. Peak asbestos use occurred between the 1930s and 1970s. Asbestos could be found in buildings, equipment, and vehicles, as well as on ships.
Asbestos was prized in shipbuilding for its ability to insulate and fireproof. It was also lightweight, inexpensive, and abundant. Some of the many asbestos components that went into ships at Orange and elsewhere include:
- Insulation
- Pipes
- Adhesives
- Gaskets
- Valves
- Cement
- Boilers
- Pumps
Who Was at Risk of Asbestos Exposure at Orange Shipyards?
Orange shipyard workers risked asbestos exposure from inhaling the tiny fibers that easily release from asbestos materials. Anyone who worked in the shipyards risked exposure.
Workers with the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos handled asbestos materials directly. They manipulated, moved, and even cut into asbestos, releasing harmful fibers. Orange shipyard workers with the highest risk of asbestos exposure included:
- Insulation workers
- Repair workers
- Pipefitters
- Steamfitters
- Welders
- Electricians
- Plumbers
Seeking Compensation for Asbestos Illnesses
If you worked in the Orange shipyards during the years of asbestos use, you could be at risk for an asbestos illness. If you get a diagnosis of mesothelioma, you have legal options for seeking compensation.
One option is to file a lawsuit to seek a settlement. Many victims of workplace asbestos exposure sue the companies that supplied shipyards with asbestos materials.
Many of those companies went bankrupt over asbestos lawsuits. They created asbestos trust funds to compensate future claimants. An asbestos trust fund claim is another way to seek compensation for an asbestos illness.
Contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to learn more about your options.
Orange Shipbuilding Today
Orange Shipbuilding remains under Conrad Industries today. The company continues to build tugboats, ferries, and deck barges. It also repairs and overhauls numerous types of vessels, including cargo ships, container ships, marine craft, fishing vessels, trawlers, tankers, and more. The company no longer uses asbestos in any of its products.
If Orange Shipbuilding’s past use of asbestos harmed you or your family, you have legal rights. Contact an asbestos attorney for guidance.
Helpful Information 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. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers. If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.
