Maritime

Introduction to Asbestos in the Maritime Industry

The maritime industry has been a cornerstone of global trade and transportation for centuries, encompassing shipbuilding, shipping, and naval operations. This industry operates in demanding environments, where vessels must endure extreme conditions such as high temperatures, saltwater corrosion, and fire hazards. Ships are complex structures requiring robust materials to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity. Historically, asbestos was a critical material in the maritime industry, widely used in ship construction, maintenance, and repair due to its unique properties.

From commercial cargo ships to naval vessels, asbestos was integrated into various components to enhance durability and safety. It was used extensively in ship insulation, fireproofing, and mechanical systems, making it a staple material in maritime operations. However, the widespread use of asbestos also introduced significant health risks to shipbuilders, sailors, and dockworkers, as exposure to asbestos fibers became a serious occupational hazard.

Why Asbestos Was Used in the Maritime Industry

Asbestos was indispensable in the maritime industry due to its exceptional heat resistance, fireproofing capabilities, and durability. Ships required materials that could withstand the intense heat generated by engines, boilers, and exhaust systems, and asbestos proved ideal for insulating these components. It was also used in fireproofing materials to minimize the risk of onboard fires, a critical safety measure in maritime operations. Additionally, asbestos was resistant to saltwater corrosion, making it suitable for use in gaskets, seals, and other components exposed to marine environments.

Beyond insulation and fireproofing, asbestos was used in various ship components, including pipe coverings, engine room linings, and electrical systems. Its versatility extended to protective gear for maritime workers, such as gloves and blankets, which shielded them from heat and fire hazards. Despite its advantages, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, particularly during ship construction, maintenance, and decommissioning, led to its decline. Today, the maritime industry has transitioned to safer alternatives and adheres to strict regulations to protect workers and the environment.

Types of Asbestos Used in the Industry

The maritime industry extensively utilized asbestos fibers due to their exceptional heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties, which were critical for shipbuilding, maintenance, and operations:

Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Chrysotile was the most commonly used type of asbestos in the maritime industry. Its flexibility and resistance to heat made it ideal for use in insulating materials for ship components, such as boilers, steam pipes, and engine rooms. Chrysotile was also woven into textiles for fireproof blankets, gaskets, and protective clothing used by shipyard workers and crew members.

Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Amosite was valued for its superior strength and ability to withstand high temperatures. It was frequently used in thermal insulation products, such as pipe lagging, insulating boards, and sprayed coatings, to protect ship equipment and maintain energy efficiency in high-temperature environments.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Crocidolite was occasionally used in the maritime industry for applications requiring exceptional chemical resistance and heat tolerance. It was often found in spray-on insulation, gaskets, and cement products used in ship construction and repair.

The maritime industry relied on asbestos for its ability to provide thermal insulation, fireproofing, and protection in extreme conditions. However, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to its replacement with safer alternatives in modern shipbuilding and maritime practices.

Common Types of Asbestos Products in the Maritime Industry

The maritime industry extensively used asbestos due to its exceptional heat resistance, fireproofing capabilities, and durability. Asbestos was a critical material in shipbuilding, maintenance, and repair, protecting ships and their crews from fire hazards and high temperatures. Common types of asbestos products used in the maritime industry include:

Asbestos Insulation: Asbestos insulation was one of the most widely used materials, applied extensively to pipes, boilers, and engine rooms. This insulation not only prevented heat loss but also provided critical fire protection, ensuring the safety of both the ship and its crew. The ability of asbestos to withstand extreme temperatures made it an indispensable material for insulating high-heat areas, particularly in engine rooms where the risk of fire and overheating was significant.

Asbestos Fireproofing Sprays: Asbestos fireproofing sprays were another common product in the maritime industry, used to coat ship decks, bulkheads, and structural components. These sprays enhanced the fire resistance of ships, reducing the risk of catastrophic fires at sea. By creating a protective barrier, asbestos fireproofing sprays helped to contain and slow the spread of flames, providing valuable time for firefighting efforts and evacuation if necessary. This application was especially critical in the confined spaces of ships, where fire hazards posed a significant threat to both the vessel and its occupants.

Asbestos Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos gaskets and seals were integral to the operation of ship machinery, engines, and pumps. These components were designed to ensure leak-proof performance under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, which were common in maritime environments. The durability and heat resistance of asbestos made it an ideal material for gaskets and seals, which needed to maintain their integrity in the face of extreme mechanical and thermal stress. These products played a vital role in maintaining the efficiency and safety of ship systems, preventing leaks and ensuring smooth operation.

Asbestos Cement Boards: Asbestos cement boards were frequently used in ship construction for their fireproofing and thermal insulation properties. These boards were installed in walls, ceilings, and other structural components of ships, providing a strong and durable barrier against heat and fire. Their resistance to corrosion and decay made them particularly suitable for the harsh maritime environment, where exposure to moisture and salt could compromise other materials. Asbestos cement boards contributed to the overall safety and longevity of ships, making them a staple in shipbuilding projects.

Asbestos Rope and Packing: Asbestos rope and packing were also widely utilized in the maritime industry for sealing and insulating ship components such as boilers, engines, and valves. These products were valued for their flexibility, strength, and ability to withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for use in critical ship systems. Asbestos rope and packing provided effective insulation and sealing, ensuring the efficient operation of ship machinery while protecting against heat and fire hazards. Their versatility and reliability made them an essential part of the maritime industry’s reliance on asbestos products.

Companies That Manufactured Asbestos Products

Several companies were key suppliers of asbestos-containing materials for the maritime industry. These include:

Johns-Manville Corporation: The Johns-Manville Corporation was a dominant supplier of asbestos-containing materials for the maritime industry, leveraging its extensive product line to meet the unique demands of shipbuilding and maintenance. The company produced a wide range of asbestos-based products, including insulation, fireproofing sprays, and gaskets, which were integral to the construction and operation of ships. Johns-Manville’s asbestos insulation was particularly valued for its ability to withstand high temperatures, making it a critical component in engine rooms, boilers, and piping systems. Their fireproofing sprays were widely applied to ship decks and structural components, enhancing fire resistance and ensuring the safety of vessels and their crews. Additionally, the company’s asbestos gaskets were essential for maintaining leak-proof operations in ship machinery, engines, and pumps, further solidifying Johns-Manville’s reputation as a key player in the maritime industry.

Raybestos-Manhattan, Inc.: Raybestos-Manhattan, Inc. was another prominent supplier of asbestos products for the maritime sector, specializing in the manufacture of gaskets, seals, and protective materials designed for ship machinery and equipment. The company’s products were engineered to perform under the extreme conditions of maritime environments, where high temperatures and pressures were common. Raybestos-Manhattan’s asbestos gaskets and seals were particularly critical in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of ship systems, preventing leaks and maintaining the integrity of engines and pumps. Their expertise in producing durable and heat-resistant materials made them a trusted name in the industry, with their products widely used in both ship construction and maintenance.

Eagle-Picher Industries: Eagle-Picher Industries played a significant role in supplying asbestos-containing materials for ship construction and repair, with a focus on insulation and cement boards. The company’s asbestos insulation was extensively used to protect against heat and fire in critical areas such as engine rooms and piping systems. Eagle-Picher’s asbestos cement boards were also a staple in shipbuilding, providing fireproofing and thermal insulation for walls, ceilings, and other structural components. These boards were particularly valued for their durability and resistance to the harsh maritime environment, where exposure to moisture and salt could compromise other materials. Eagle-Picher’s contributions to the maritime industry were instrumental in enhancing the safety and longevity of ships.

Keasbey & Mattison Co.: Keasbey & Mattison Co. was well-known for its asbestos fireproofing sprays and insulation products, which were specifically tailored for maritime applications. The company’s fireproofing sprays were widely used to coat ship decks, bulkheads, and structural components, providing an essential layer of protection against fire hazards. Their asbestos insulation products were equally important, offering superior heat resistance and durability in high-temperature areas such as engine rooms and boilers. Keasbey & Mattison’s commitment to producing high-quality asbestos materials made them a key supplier for the maritime industry, where safety and reliability were paramount.

Armstrong World Industries: Armstrong World Industries was a major producer of asbestos cement panels and insulation materials used in ships and maritime facilities. Their asbestos cement panels were commonly installed in ship walls, ceilings, and other structural components, providing fireproofing and thermal insulation. These panels were valued for their strength and resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for the challenging conditions of the maritime environment. Armstrong’s asbestos insulation materials were also widely used to protect against heat and fire, ensuring the safety and efficiency of ship systems. The company’s products were a vital part of the maritime industry’s reliance on asbestos, contributing to the construction and maintenance of durable and fire-resistant vessels.

The maritime industry’s reliance on asbestos was driven by its ability to withstand extreme heat and provide fire protection in confined shipboard environments. However, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to its phased-out use and replacement with safer alternatives in modern shipbuilding and maintenance practices.

Maritime Workers are at Risk of Asbestos-Related Diseases
Maritime workers, particularly those involved in shipbuilding, repair, maintenance, and cargo handling, face a significant risk of asbestos exposure. Historically, asbestos was extensively used in the maritime industry due to its exceptional heat resistance, fireproofing capabilities, and durability. Medical research has conclusively demonstrated that asbestos exposure can lead to the following health complications:

Mesothelioma – Maritime workers are at an elevated risk of developing mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, due to inhaling airborne asbestos fibers. These fibers were often released from asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, gaskets, and fireproofing used in ships and ship components .

Lung Cancer – The repair and maintenance of ships frequently involved disturbing asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation, boiler linings, and engine components. This disturbance released asbestos fibers into the air, significantly increasing the risk of lung cancer for workers who inhaled them. For decades, the maritime industry relied heavily on asbestos without fully disclosing its dangers, leaving workers vulnerable .

Throat Cancer – Inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers during tasks such as dismantling ship components or handling asbestos-laden cargo could lead to cancers of the larynx and pharynx. Insufficient protective measures in the past further exacerbated this risk for maritime workers .

Stomach Cancer – Workers could inadvertently ingest asbestos fibers, particularly if they ate in contaminated areas or failed to clean up properly before meals. This exposure has been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer. Poor hygiene practices and inadequate dust control measures in the maritime industry contributed to this risk .

Colon Cancer – Known as colorectal cancer, this condition may result from ingesting asbestos fibers. Maritime workers were often exposed to asbestos, which could contribute to the development of this type of cancer .

Asbestosis – This chronic lung disease, caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, leads to scarring of lung tissue and significant breathing difficulties. Asbestosis is a direct result of prolonged exposure to asbestos in the workplace, particularly during the handling of asbestos-containing ship components and materials .

Maritime workers played a critical role in global trade and naval operations, but the nature of their work placed them at significant risk of asbestos exposure. Modern safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and strict adherence to asbestos abatement regulations, are essential to protect workers from the long-term health effects of asbestos exposure.

Learn more about the diseases asbestos can cause.

Asbestos Exposure in the Maritime Industry

The maritime industry, encompassing shipbuilding, ship repair, and shipbreaking, has a long history of asbestos use due to the mineral’s heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. Asbestos was extensively used in ships for fireproofing, insulation, and as a component in various mechanical systems. Maritime workers were frequently exposed to asbestos during their daily tasks or while working near others disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

Key tasks that exposed maritime workers to asbestos included:

Shipbuilding Activities: During the construction of ships, workers installed asbestos-containing materials such as thermal insulation for pipes, boilers, and engines, as well as fireproofing materials in bulkheads and ceilings. Cutting, sawing, or fitting these materials released asbestos fibers into the air.
Ship Repair and Maintenance: Maritime workers involved in repairing or maintaining ships were at high risk of exposure. Tasks such as replacing asbestos insulation, repairing boilers, or working on asbestos-containing gaskets, valves, and pumps often disturbed asbestos materials, releasing hazardous fibers.
Engine Room Operations: Engine rooms were heavily insulated with asbestos to protect against heat and fire. Workers operating or maintaining machinery in these confined spaces were exposed to airborne asbestos fibers from deteriorating insulation or during repairs.
Shipbreaking and Demolition: Dismantling older ships, which were often constructed with significant amounts of asbestos, posed one of the highest risks of exposure. Cutting through asbestos-containing materials during shipbreaking released large quantities of fibers into the air, endangering workers.
Cargo Handling: Maritime workers who loaded and unloaded asbestos-containing cargo, such as raw asbestos fibers, asbestos textiles, or products like insulation and cement, were at risk of exposure, especially if the materials were damaged or improperly sealed.
Pipe and Equipment Lagging Removal: Removing or replacing asbestos lagging (insulation) from pipes, ducts, and other equipment was a common task that released asbestos fibers into the air, particularly when performed without proper safety measures.
Even workers who were not directly handling asbestos-containing materials could be exposed to airborne fibers if they worked in proximity to these tasks or in poorly ventilated areas where asbestos dust accumulated.

The risk of take-home exposure was a significant concern for maritime workers. Asbestos fibers could adhere to workers’ clothing, shoes, and personal items, allowing them to unknowingly bring these hazardous fibers into their homes. Family members were at risk of secondary exposure through activities such as shaking out or laundering contaminated work clothes. This type of exposure has been linked to serious asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis, highlighting the far-reaching dangers of asbestos in the maritime industry and its impact on workers’ families.

Our Law Firm Assists Maritime Industry Workers with Asbestos-Related Conditions

Maritime workers, including shipbuilders, sailors, dockworkers, and offshore rig workers, were frequently exposed to asbestos while working aboard ships, in shipyards, and in port facilities. Asbestos was commonly used in ship insulation, engine rooms, boilers, and piping systems due to its heat-resistant properties. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers has led many maritime workers to develop serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you may be entitled to compensation. Our law firm is committed to guiding maritime workers and their families through the legal process, providing comprehensive support in the following areas:

Asbestos Trust Claims
Many shipbuilding companies, shipping lines, and manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials have established trust funds to compensate maritime workers diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases. Filing a claim with these trusts does not require a lawsuit and can provide financial relief for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. Our legal team can help determine your eligibility and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Asbestos Lawsuits
Manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing materials used in the maritime industry can be held accountable through legal action. Workers who were exposed to asbestos aboard ships, in shipyards, or while repairing and maintaining maritime vessels may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Compensation from these lawsuits can help cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of maritime industry workers.

Asbestos Disability Claims
Workers diagnosed with asbestos-related conditions may qualify for Social Security disability benefits if their illness prevents them from working. Additionally, veterans who were exposed to asbestos while serving in the Navy or working in military shipyards may be eligible for veterans’ disability benefits. These claims provide essential financial support for affected individuals and their families.