Military Exposure

The U.S. military was one of the largest consumers of asbestos during the 20th century, incorporating it into nearly every aspect of its operations due to its affordability, fire resistance, and durability. Asbestos was widely used in ships, vehicles, aircraft, bases, and even protective gear to safeguard service members and equipment from fire and heat. However, this reliance on asbestos came at a significant cost, as millions of service members were unknowingly exposed to its hazardous fibers during their service.

Veterans from all branches of the military—especially those in the Navy, where asbestos was heavily used in shipbuilding and maintenance—face an elevated risk of developing asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These illnesses often emerge decades after exposure, leaving many veterans and their families grappling with serious health challenges. Fortunately, veterans affected by asbestos exposure may qualify for compensation through asbestos trust funds, lawsuits, and VA benefits, providing some relief for the harm caused by this widespread use.

Why Was Asbestos Used in the Military?

Fireproofing: Ships, barracks, and aircraft required flame-resistant materials to reduce the risk of fires in high-stress environments.

Insulation: Asbestos was used to insulate boilers, pipes, engines, and other equipment to prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency.

Mechanical Durability: Found in brake pads, clutches, gaskets, and seals, asbestos enhanced the performance and longevity of military vehicles and machinery.

Protective Equipment: Heat-resistant gloves, blankets, and suits often contained asbestos to protect personnel working in high-temperature conditions.

Although the military began phasing out asbestos in the late 20th century, many older bases, ships, and vehicles still contain asbestos materials. This poses ongoing risks to both veterans and current personnel, particularly during renovations, demolitions, or maintenance activities that disturb asbestos-containing materials. The legacy of asbestos use in the armed forces underscores the importance of awareness, early detection, and access to resources for those affected.

Military Branches & Asbestos Exposure

While all branches of the U.S. military utilized asbestos extensively, the level of exposure and associated risks varied significantly depending on roles, assignments, and environments. Service members often encountered asbestos in their daily duties, whether aboard ships, in aircraft, or on military bases. Below is a breakdown of how asbestos exposure impacted each branch of the armed forces:

U.S. Navy & Coast Guard (Most Affected)

The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard faced the highest levels of asbestos exposure due to the heavy use of asbestos in shipbuilding and maintenance.

Naval Vessels: Warships, submarines, and transport vessels were constructed with asbestos insulation in boilers, pipes, engine rooms, and other high-heat areas. Asbestos was also used in gaskets, valves, and fireproofing materials throughout the ships.

Shipyard Workers: Shipyard personnel who built, repaired, or decommissioned vessels were exposed to intense levels of asbestos dust, particularly when cutting, sanding, or removing asbestos-containing materials.

Confined Spaces: Sailors and mechanics working in poorly ventilated areas, such as engine rooms and boiler rooms, were at heightened risk of inhaling airborne asbestos fibers.

Long-Term Risks: Even sailors who did not directly handle asbestos were exposed to fibers released into the air during routine ship operations or maintenance.

Read More: [U.S. Navy Asbestos Exposure]
Read More: Asbestos Exposure on Naval Warships
Read More: Asbestos on U.S. Navy Support & Transport Ships

U.S. Air Force, Army & Marine Corps (Land-Based Exposure)

While asbestos exposure in the Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps was less concentrated than in the Navy, it was still widespread due to its use in infrastructure, vehicles, and protective equipment.

Base Infrastructure: Military bases, including barracks, hangars, and boiler rooms, were constructed with asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement. Service members working in these facilities were at risk, especially during maintenance or renovations.

Vehicle Repair: Tanks, trucks, and aircraft relied on asbestos brake pads, clutches, gaskets, and seals for durability and heat resistance. Mechanics and repair crews were frequently exposed to asbestos dust during maintenance tasks.

Construction & Demolition: Renovation or demolition of older military buildings often disturbed asbestos-containing materials, releasing fibers into the air and exposing construction crews and nearby personnel.

Protective Gear: Fire-resistant gloves, blankets, and suits used by firefighters and other personnel contained asbestos, putting wearers at risk during prolonged use or when the materials degraded.

Read More: [Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps Asbestos Exposure]

Although asbestos use in the military has been largely phased out, many older ships, vehicles, and buildings still contain asbestos materials. Veterans who served during the mid-20th century, as well as current personnel working on older equipment or facilities, remain at risk of exposure. Understanding the unique risks faced by each branch is critical for identifying potential health issues and seeking appropriate compensation or medical care.

Types of Asbestos by the Military

The military extensively utilized asbestos fibers across various applications due to their durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties, which were essential for defense equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure:

Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Chrysotile was the most commonly used type of asbestos in military applications. Its flexibility and ability to be woven into textiles made it ideal for use in insulation materials for ships, aircraft, and land vehicles. It was also used in gaskets, brake linings, and protective clothing to safeguard personnel and equipment from extreme heat and fire hazards.

Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Amosite was valued for its superior strength and heat resistance, making it suitable for high-temperature applications. It was frequently used in thermal insulation for military ships, tanks, and aircraft, as well as in construction materials for military bases, such as insulating boards and cement products.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Crocidolite was occasionally used in military applications requiring exceptional chemical resistance and heat tolerance. It was often found in spray-on insulation, cement products, and protective coatings for equipment and facilities.

Learn more about the six types of asbestos and their uses.

The military relied heavily on asbestos for its ability to provide thermal insulation, fireproofing, and durability in extreme conditions. However, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to its phased-out use and replacement with safer alternatives in modern defense practices.

Common Types of Asbestos Products Used by the Military

The military industry relied heavily on asbestos for its fireproofing, heat resistance, and durability, particularly during the 20th century. Asbestos was used extensively in military vehicles, ships, aircraft, and infrastructure to protect personnel and equipment from fire and extreme heat. Common types of asbestos products used in the military industry include:

Asbestos Insulation: Asbestos insulation was a cornerstone of the military industry, particularly in its application to pipes, boilers, and engine rooms in military ships and facilities. This type of insulation was prized for its ability to prevent heat loss and enhance fire resistance, making it indispensable in high-temperature environments. In military ships, asbestos insulation was extensively used to wrap pipes and line boiler systems, ensuring operational efficiency and safety. Its fire-resistant properties were critical in reducing the risk of onboard fires, a constant hazard in naval operations. Similarly, military facilities relied on asbestos insulation to maintain thermal efficiency and protect against fire hazards, particularly in areas housing critical equipment or personnel.

Asbestos Brake Pads and Clutches: Asbestos brake pads and clutches were widely used in military vehicles and aircraft due to their exceptional durability and ability to withstand high levels of friction and heat. Military vehicles, such as tanks, trucks, and jeeps, operated under extreme conditions, requiring brake systems that could endure intense stress without failure. Asbestos, with its heat-resistant and wear-resistant properties, was the material of choice for these components. Similarly, in military aircraft, asbestos clutches and brake pads were essential for ensuring reliable performance during takeoff, landing, and other high-stress maneuvers. These products played a vital role in maintaining the operational readiness and safety of military transportation and combat vehicles.

Asbestos Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos gaskets and seals were another critical component in the military industry, installed in machinery, engines, and equipment to ensure leak-proof operation under extreme conditions. These gaskets and seals were used in a variety of military applications, from naval ships to aircraft and ground vehicles. Their ability to withstand high temperatures, pressures, and chemical exposure made them indispensable in maintaining the integrity of military systems. For example, in naval ships, asbestos gaskets were used in engine rooms and piping systems to prevent leaks and ensure efficient operation. In aircraft and vehicles, they provided reliable sealing solutions for engines and other critical components, contributing to the overall durability and performance of military equipment.

Asbestos Fireproofing Sprays: Asbestos fireproofing sprays were extensively applied in military barracks, ships, and vehicles to enhance fire resistance and protect personnel and equipment. These sprays were used to coat structural components, such as walls, ceilings, and bulkheads, creating a fire-resistant barrier that could withstand high temperatures and delay the spread of flames. In military ships, fireproofing sprays were particularly important in protecting engine rooms, storage areas, and living quarters from fire hazards. Similarly, in military barracks and vehicles, these sprays provided an additional layer of safety, ensuring that critical infrastructure and assets were safeguarded against the risk of fire.

Asbestos Cement Panels and Boards: Asbestos cement panels and boards were widely utilized in military construction for their fireproofing and thermal insulation properties. These materials were commonly used in the construction of military buildings, such as barracks, command centers, and storage facilities, where fire resistance and durability were paramount. Asbestos cement panels were also employed in naval ships, providing fireproofing and insulation for walls, ceilings, and other structural components. Their resistance to heat, moisture, and corrosion made them ideal for the demanding conditions of military environments. These panels and boards not only enhanced the safety of military infrastructure but also contributed to its longevity and reliability, ensuring that facilities and vessels could withstand the rigors of military operations.

Military Personnel and Workers are at Risk of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Military personnel and workers, particularly those involved in shipbuilding, vehicle maintenance, construction, and the operation of military facilities, face a significant risk of asbestos exposure. Historically, asbestos was extensively used in the military due to its exceptional heat resistance, fireproofing capabilities, and durability. It was a critical material in the construction of ships, aircraft, vehicles, and military infrastructure. Medical research has conclusively demonstrated that asbestos exposure can lead to the following health complications:

Mesothelioma – Military personnel and 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 military ships, vehicles, and buildings.

Lung Cancer – The repair and maintenance of military equipment and facilities frequently involved disturbing asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation, brake components, and engine parts. This disturbance released asbestos fibers into the air, significantly increasing the risk of lung cancer for workers who inhaled them. For decades, the military relied heavily on asbestos without fully disclosing its dangers, leaving personnel vulnerabl.

Throat Cancer – Inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers during tasks such as dismantling military vehicles or repairing infrastructure could lead to cancers of the larynx and pharynx. Insufficient protective measures in the past further exacerbated this risk for military 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 military environments contributed to this risk.

Colon Cancer – Known as colorectal cancer, this condition may result from ingesting asbestos fibers. Military personnel and 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 military equipment and materials.

Learn more about the diseases asbestos can cause.

The military’s extensive use of asbestos in the 20th century, particularly during World War II and the Cold War, placed countless personnel and workers at risk. Modern safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and strict adherence to asbestos abatement regulations, are essential to protect military workers from the long-term health effects of asbestos exposure.

Our Law Firm Assists Military Veterans with Asbestos-Related Conditions

Many military veterans, especially those who served in the Navy, Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps, were exposed to asbestos while working on ships, aircraft, military vehicles, and base facilities. Asbestos was widely used in insulation, brake pads, gaskets, boiler rooms, barracks, and construction materials, putting service members at risk of inhaling harmful fibers. Decades later, many veterans have developed serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis due to their exposure. 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 veterans and their families through the legal process, providing comprehensive support in the following areas:

Asbestos Trust Claims: Many manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing materials used by the military have established trust funds to compensate veterans 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: Although the military itself cannot be sued for asbestos exposure, the manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing products used in military equipment and facilities can be held accountable. Veterans who were exposed to asbestos while working in shipyards, aircraft hangars, barracks, or armored vehicle maintenance 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 veterans.

Veterans’ Disability Claims: Veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses may be eligible for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). If asbestos exposure occurred during active duty, VA benefits may provide essential financial and medical support. Our legal team can help navigate the VA claims process, ensuring that veterans receive the benefits they are entitled to.

Learn more about the legal rights of veterans who were exposed to asbestos.