Shipyard Asbestos Exposure Across the United States
Shipyards were some of the most dangerous asbestos exposure environments in U.S. history. From the 1930s through the 1980s, asbestos was heavily used in shipbuilding because it was inexpensive, heat-resistant, and durable—making it ideal for naval vessels and commercial ships.
During World War II, ship production surged, and so did the use of asbestos. Workers often handled these materials daily, unaware of the long-term health risks.
Although asbestos use has significantly declined, the danger never fully disappeared. Many older ships and shipyard facilities still contain asbestos, and exposure can lead to serious illness decades later.
Why Asbestos Exposure Is Still Dangerous Today
One of the most challenging aspects of asbestos exposure is its long latency period. Diseases caused by asbestos—such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other respiratory illnesses—can take 20 to 50 years to develop.
This delay often makes it difficult for individuals to connect their diagnosis to work they performed decades earlier, especially in industries like shipbuilding where exposure was routine.
Shipyard Jobs with the Highest Risk
Shipyard workers were exposed to asbestos both onboard vessels and throughout shipyard facilities.
On ships, asbestos was commonly found in:
- Insulation around pipes and boilers
- Gaskets and valves
- Electrical wiring systems
- Engine and boiler rooms
These areas were often confined and poorly ventilated, increasing the likelihood of inhaling airborne asbestos fibers.
High-risk occupations included:
- Insulators
- Pipefitters
- Boilermakers
- Electricians
- Welders
- Machinists
- Maintenance crews
Exposure also extended beyond direct labor roles. Inspectors, engineers, and civilian contractors working in and around shipyards were frequently exposed as well.
Major Shipyards with Known Asbestos Exposure Risk (Nationwide)
Asbestos exposure occurred in shipyards across the United States. While no list is fully comprehensive, the following locations are among the most well-known sites where exposure risk has been documented:
West Coast
- Puget Sound Naval Shipyard – Bremerton, WA
- Long Beach Naval Shipyard – Long Beach, CA
- Swan Island Shipyard – Portland, OR
- Albina Engine & Machine Works – Portland, OR
- San Francisco Naval Shipyard (Hunters Point) – San Francisco, CA
Gulf Coast
- Avondale Shipyards – near New Orleans, LA
- Ingalls Shipbuilding – Pascagoula, MS
- Todd Shipyards – Galveston, TX
East Coast
- Norfolk Naval Shipyard – Norfolk, VA
- Newport News Shipbuilding – Newport News, VA
- Brooklyn Navy Yard – Brooklyn, NY
- Portsmouth Naval Shipyard – Kittery, ME
Great Lakes Region
- Great Lakes Shipyard – Cleveland, OH
- Toledo Shipyard – Toledo, OH
- Various shipbuilding and repair facilities throughout the Great Lakes
Important:
Any shipyard built before the 1990s—or any facility servicing older vessels—may still pose an asbestos exposure risk.
Why This Still Matters
Many former shipyard workers—and even family members exposed through secondhand contact—are only now being diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases.
Because exposure often happened decades ago, proving where and how it occurred can be complex. Employers and manufacturers may attempt to shift responsibility, but work history, medical evidence, and expert analysis can help establish the connection.
How Madeksho Law Can Help
For more than 50 years, Madeksho Law has represented individuals and families affected by asbestos exposure. The firm has recovered significant compensation for clients nationwide and continues to advocate for those facing serious, life-altering diagnoses.
If you or a loved one worked in shipyards—or in any high-risk industry—and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you may have legal options.
Call 888-910-6376 for a free case evaluation or contact us online. You pay no fees unless compensation is recovered on your behalf.
