During much of the 1900s, particularly from the 1930s to the 1980s, asbestos was widely used on US Navy ships. Over 300 asbestos-containing materials were used during this period, putting Navy veterans and shipyard workers at significant risk of developing mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.
The Navy relied on asbestos because it was heat-resistant, fireproof, and inexpensive. It was used as insulation, in building materials, and to protect equipment from extreme heat. Asbestos was found throughout ships, including sleeping quarters, navigation rooms, engine rooms, boiler rooms, mess halls, and other areas.
Key Equipment Containing Asbestos
Boilers
Boilers generate high-temperature, high-pressure steam that powers a ship. Before 1973, boilers were insulated with up to 15% asbestos. Workers who installed or maintained boilers, including boilermakers, were often exposed to dangerous asbestos fibers.
Pumps and Valves
Many pumps on Navy ships contained asbestos insulation, which released fibers during maintenance. Valves, frequently disassembled for repairs, also contained asbestos on their outer surfaces, exposing workers to repeated asbestos dust.
Pipes and Pipe Insulation
Asbestos insulation wrapped around pipes throughout the ships often contained 5–10% asbestos. When pipe coatings were damaged or repaired, dry asbestos mixed with water released fibers into the air, exposing workers in multiple areas of the ship.
Other Materials
In addition to major equipment, asbestos was present in gaskets, cables, tubes, capacitors, adhesives, protective garments, and many other materials. Workers rarely wore protective gear when handling asbestos-containing materials, further increasing the risk of exposure.
Who Was Affected
Navy veterans, shipyard workers, and maintenance personnel were all at risk. Any worker who handled asbestos-containing equipment or materials — directly or indirectly — could have inhaled fibers that may lead to mesothelioma decades later.
Seeking Justice for Mesothelioma Victims
If you or a loved one served on a US Navy ship and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation. At the Halpern Law Firm, we have over 30 years of experience helping Pennsylvania veterans and workers affected by asbestos-related illnesses. Our team has recovered over $100 million for clients and is committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call (800) 505-6000 today or fill out our contact form. Don’t wait — the mesothelioma statute of limitations in Pennsylvania is limited, and timely legal action is crucial. We assist clients throughout Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Scranton, and Johnstown.
Sources:
https://www.asbestos.com/navy/ships/
