Asbestos Exposure in Shipyards
During the 20th century, asbestos was transported worldwide to industrial shipyards and factories as a heat insulator, fireproof material, and many other economically valuable applications. Asbestos use started in the United States in the late 1800s. In the 1930s and 1940s, documents revealed that asbestos manufacturers knew of the health issues related to asbestos. It wasn’t until the 1970s that enough evidence and medical opinions had mounted for victims to bring lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers. Unfortunately, it was already too late for many workers exposed to asbestos in shipyards.
Dangers of Asbestos Use and Mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure is the only known link to the cause of mesothelioma. It’s a naturally occurring mineral used by many industries in materials ranging from wall insulation to brake pad linings. If exposed to damaged or disturbed asbestos-containing materials, asbestos fibers are released in the air and may be inhaled in large amounts. If fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can lodge in the body’s tissues.
Mesothelioma develops when asbestos fibers get embedded in the protective lining of a person’s lungs, abdomen, or heart. They collect in the mesothelium, causing irritation, inflammation, and cellular damage that leads to mesothelioma. Most asbestos exposure occurs during work. People exposed to asbestos at early ages, for an extended period, and at higher levels are more likely to develop cancer. Malignancy develops slowly, usually between 20 to 50 years. Unfortunately, the risk of developing mesothelioma does not decrease upon cessation of exposure. There are nearly 3,000 cases each year in the U.S.
Uses of Asbestos in Shipbuilding and Shipyards
World War II was a considerable time for asbestos use in the U.S. With the increased production of ships, aircraft, and other military necessities, asbestos use also increased. In the 1920s, the navy used asbestos in new submarines and ships. Chrysotile asbestos was used for gaskets, insulation, packing, and tape. Asbestos was also used to insulate boilers, incinerators, hot water pipes, and steam pipes on ships.
Asbestos dust built up in these vessels and other inadequately ventilated areas, which led to human exposure aboard. The military’s reliance on asbestos led to human exposure on ships, aircraft, barracks, and other war-related sites. Veterans and people who built the vessels worked in shipyards and helped transport asbestos into the work area were exposed.
In shipyards, exposure also occurred during transporting, loading, and unloading materials that harbor asbestos fibers and parts onto ships and facilities. Longshoremen loaded raw asbestos from other countries onto ships for transportation to manufacturing facilities.
Compensation for Injury Due to Asbestos Exposure at Shipyards
Companies that use asbestos products know they put many of their employees at risk have been allowed to set up trust funds for those who come forward and claim their asbestos exposure. Many trust funds are set up on both the private and governmental levels. Approximately 40 billion dollars has been set aside to help compensate for mesothelioma patients and other illnesses caused by asbestos. If diagnosed with mesothelioma, you are probably eligible for compensation.
Countless shipyard workers received compensation for their illnesses developed due to asbestos exposure, and many lawsuits involved naval veterans. Former shipyard workers that developed asbestos-related diseases may be eligible to file a personal injury (Asbestos trust fund (claim) lawsuit. Those who lost a loved one to asbestos diseases may qualify to file a wrongful death claim. Veterans (VA) have a compensation system to help military men and women and their families who developed mesothelioma due to exposure during their service times.
Find answers to common questions our asbestos attorneys are asked, read about our experienced mesothelioma lawyers, or feel free to contact our mesothelioma attorneys directly with questions. One of our lawyers will be happy to answer any questions you might have about pursuing litigation with no obligation to file suit. Contact us today.
