The Kane Shipbuilding Company

The Kane Shipbuilding Company operated in Galveston, Texas, until it closed in the 1970s. Kane Shipbuilding used asbestos throughout its operations, leaving some workers with life-threatening illnesses like mesothelioma.

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 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.

Did Kane Shipbuilding Use Asbestos?

Shipyards throughout the U.S. used asbestos for insulation, fireproofing, and other purposes. Kane Shipbuilding used asbestos for decades until it ceased operations in the 1970s.

Asbestos use in shipyards was common and also damaging. It exposed many workers and led to thousands of cases of mesothelioma and other asbestos illnesses in workers and Navy veterans.

Kane Shipbuilding History and Asbestos Use

Kane Shipbuilding started as Kane Boiler Works. It was created in 1892 as a vessel repair yard in Galveston, Texas. By World War II, its name changed to reflect that it built ships for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard.

• Before the war, Kane Shipbuilding only had a small number of workers. As the war called for more and more ships, the shipyard grew and the number of workers doubled.

• Workers built a total of 12 coastal tankers and 16 deck barges at Kane Shipbuilding. While constructing the ships, workers breathed in large amounts of toxic asbestos fibers. 

• Ship repair workers were also at a heightened risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. Almost every part and tool used to repair vessels contained asbestos.

• Over 2,000 Kane Shipbuilding workers went on strike in 1952. They joined other shipyard workers in Galveston striking over pay.

• Kane permanently shut down in the 1970s. All of its years of operation coincided with peak asbestos use in the shipbuilding industry.

How Did Kane Shipbuilding Use Asbestos?

Before federal regulations on its use, asbestos was common in shipbuilding and ship repair. Shipyards used asbestos for its ability to insulate and fireproof. It went into hundreds of components of ships.

Some of the asbestos parts workers at Kane Shipbuilding likely handled include:

• Insulation
• Pipes
• Cement
• Wall panels
• Boilers
• Gaskets
• Valves
• Seals
• Adhesives

Shipyards like Kane also used asbestos in buildings, especially in the insulation. Equipment and vehicles also included asbestos parts.

How Did Asbestos at Kane Shipbuilding Affect Workers?

Most workers at Kane Shipbuilding didn’t know that asbestos exposure could lead to life-threatening illnesses such as malignant mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Most workers didn’t even wear respirators or other protective gear while unknowingly breathed in tiny asbestos fibers.

In addition, some families of Kane Shipbuilding workers were at risk of mesothelioma through secondhand exposure to asbestos fibers.

Compensation for Kane Shipbuilding Workers Exposed to Asbestos

If you worked for Kane Shipbuilding, consider talking to an attorney about your right to seek compensation for asbestos exposure. Experienced mesothelioma lawyers can explain your legal options and help you take steps to recover damages.

You may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the asbestos companies that supplied Kane Shipbuilding. Many companies supplied asbestos materials without warning of the risks of exposure. You can sue these companies for a settlement or jury award.

If the asbestos companies responsible for your exposure went bankrupt, you cannot sue them. They likely set up an asbestos trust fund, and you may qualify to make a claim.

If you are a veteran with mesothelioma, consider filing for VA benefits. You could be eligible for monthly disability compensation and specialist medical care.

Resources and Help 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.