Naval Exposure

The U.S. Navy holds a significant and troubling legacy as the largest consumer of asbestos among all military branches. This widespread use was driven by asbestos’ exceptional fireproofing, insulation, and durability properties, which were deemed essential for naval operations.

From World War II through the Cold War, asbestos became a cornerstone of naval engineering. It was incorporated into nearly every aspect of shipbuilding, from insulation in boilers and pipes to gaskets, valves, and fireproof coatings. Beyond the vessels themselves, asbestos was also heavily used in shipyards, support facilities, and maintenance operations.

The risks of asbestos exposure were particularly severe for sailors, shipyard workers, and maintenance crews, who often worked in confined spaces where airborne asbestos fibers were unavoidable. Engine rooms, boiler rooms, and other poorly ventilated areas created environments where asbestos dust could linger, putting personnel at constant risk of inhalation. Even those who did not directly handle asbestos materials were exposed to fibers released during routine ship operations, repairs, or scrapping of older vessels.

This pervasive use of asbestos has left a lasting impact on Navy veterans and shipyard workers, many of whom developed asbestos-related illnesses decades after their service. Understanding the Navy’s asbestos legacy is critical for addressing the health challenges faced by these individuals and ensuring they receive the care and compensation they deserve.

Why the U.S. Navy Used Asbestos

The U.S. Navy’s extensive reliance on asbestos was rooted in the material’s unique properties, which made it indispensable for shipbuilding and naval operations. Asbestos met the Navy’s stringent requirements for fire safety, thermal insulation, and mechanical durability, while also being cost-effective, lightweight, and readily available. These factors combined to make asbestos a critical component in nearly every aspect of naval construction and maintenance.

Fire Resistance: Fire safety was a top priority for the Navy, as fires aboard ships posed catastrophic risks to both personnel and equipment. Asbestos’ natural fireproofing properties made it the material of choice for insulating boiler rooms, bulkheads, engine rooms, and other high-risk areas. Its ability to withstand extreme temperatures without igniting or degrading was essential for meeting the Navy’s strict fireproofing standards.

Learn more about the heat and fire resistance of asbestos.

Thermal Insulation: The Navy’s reliance on steam-powered systems, particularly during World War II and the Cold War, required effective thermal insulation to control heat loss and improve energy efficiency. Asbestos was widely used to insulate steam pipes, engines, exhaust systems, and other high-temperature components. This not only enhanced operational efficiency but also protected crew members from burns and heat exposure in confined ship spaces.

Mechanical Durability: Asbestos’ strength and resilience under pressure made it an ideal material for mechanical applications. It was commonly found in brakes, gaskets, seals, and other components of ship machinery. These parts needed to withstand intense friction, high temperatures, and constant wear, and asbestos provided the durability required to keep ships operational under demanding conditions.

Learn more about the strength and durability of asbestos.

Cost & Availability: Asbestos was not only effective but also economical. Its abundance and low cost made it a practical choice for large-scale shipbuilding projects. Additionally, its lightweight nature allowed for easier handling and installation, which was particularly advantageous in the construction of naval vessels where weight considerations were critical.

Lightweight Advantage & Strategic Compliance: Following World War I, international arms treaties, such as the Washington Naval Treaty of 1922, imposed strict limits on the size and weight of naval ships to prevent an arms race. These restrictions forced naval architects to prioritize lightweight materials to maximize ship performance while staying within treaty limits. Asbestos, being both lightweight and multifunctional, provided a strategic advantage by reducing overall ship weight without compromising fireproofing, insulation, or durability. This allowed the Navy to build more efficient and treaty-compliant vessels, giving them a competitive edge in naval warfare.

Learn more about the weight savings of asbestos on naval ships.

The Navy’s heavy reliance on asbestos was driven by these practical and strategic advantages, but the long-term health consequences for those who worked with or around the material were not fully understood at the time. Today, the widespread use of asbestos in naval operations is recognized as a major factor in the high rates of asbestos-related illnesses among Navy veterans and shipyard workers.

High-Risk Locations for Asbestos Exposure on Navy Ships

Navy ships were constructed with asbestos-containing materials integrated into nearly every section, making exposure a widespread risk for sailors and shipyard workers. The confined spaces and constant maintenance activities aboard ships further heightened the danger, as asbestos fibers could easily become airborne and circulate throughout the vessel. Below are the highest-risk areas for asbestos exposure on Navy ships:

Boiler & Engine Rooms: Boiler and engine rooms were among the most asbestos-intensive areas on Navy ships. Asbestos was used extensively to insulate boilers, steam pipes, turbines, and exhaust systems due to its exceptional heat resistance.

Enclosed Spaces: These areas were often poorly ventilated, trapping asbestos dust released during maintenance or wear and tear. Sailors, machinists, and engineers working in these spaces faced prolonged and concentrated exposure to airborne fibers.

Machinery Spaces & Pump Rooms: Machinery spaces and pump rooms contained numerous valves, pumps, and hydraulic systems that relied on asbestos gaskets and packing materials to withstand high pressures and temperatures.

Friction-Based Wear & Tear: The constant operation of mechanical systems caused friction, which released asbestos fibers into the air. Maintenance activities, such as replacing gaskets or repairing pumps, further exacerbated the risk of exposure.

Ship Decks & Bulkheads: Bulkheads and flooring on Navy ships were often lined with asbestos-containing materials, including tiles, insulation panels, and spray coatings. These materials provided fireproofing and thermal insulation but posed a significant hazard when damaged or disturbed.

Spray Coatings: Asbestos spray coatings were applied to structural components for fireproofing, and over time, these coatings could degrade, releasing fibers into the air.

Sleeping Quarters & Mess Halls:* Asbestos dust generated in high-risk areas like boiler rooms and machinery spaces could travel through the ship’s ventilation systems, contaminating sleeping quarters, mess halls, and other communal areas. This indirect exposure put all crew members at risk, even those not directly involved in maintenance or engineering tasks.

Asbestos Exposure on Naval Warships

Asbestos on Navy Support & Transport Ships

The pervasive use of asbestos on Navy ships created an environment where exposure was nearly unavoidable, particularly for those working in high-risk areas. Understanding these locations is crucial for identifying potential exposure risks and advocating for proper medical monitoring and compensation for affected veterans.

Asbestos Exposure in Navy Shipyards & Maintenance Work

Shipyard workers were among the most heavily exposed to asbestos due to the extensive use of asbestos-containing materials in ship construction, maintenance, and decommissioning. The nature of their work often involved disturbing asbestos-laden components, releasing hazardous fibers into the air. This made shipyards some of the most dangerous environments for asbestos exposure.

Key Activities Leading to Asbestos Exposure

Constructing Ships with Asbestos-Laden Materials: During the construction of Navy ships, workers handled asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, fireproofing sprays, and gaskets. Cutting, shaping, and installing these materials released significant amounts of asbestos dust into the air.

Repairing or Overhauling Insulation, Gaskets, and Mechanical Components: Maintenance work, such as replacing worn-out gaskets, repairing steam pipes, or overhauling turbines, often disturbed asbestos-containing materials. These tasks generated airborne fibers, exposing workers to high concentrations of asbestos.

Scrapping & Decommissioning Old Vessels: Decommissioning and scrapping older Navy ships involved dismantling asbestos-insulated components, such as boilers, bulkheads, and flooring. The process of cutting, grinding, or removing these materials released large amounts of asbestos dust, creating a hazardous environment for workers.

Major Navy Shipyards with High Asbestos Exposure

Several Navy shipyards were known for their heavy use of asbestos-containing materials, leading to widespread exposure among workers. These include:

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (Virginia): One of the oldest and largest shipyards, Norfolk Naval Shipyard was a hub for ship construction, repair, and decommissioning, exposing thousands of workers to asbestos.

Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (Washington): Located on the West Coast, this shipyard was heavily involved in building and maintaining Navy vessels, with extensive use of asbestos in insulation and mechanical systems.

Philadelphia Naval Shipyard (Pennsylvania): A major center for shipbuilding and repair, the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard employed thousands of workers who were regularly exposed to asbestos during construction and maintenance activities.

Long Beach Naval Shipyard (California): Known for its role in maintaining and overhauling Navy ships, this shipyard exposed workers to asbestos through insulation removal, gasket replacement, and other maintenance tasks.

Shipyard workers played a critical role in the Navy’s operations, but their work came at a significant cost to their health. The high levels of asbestos exposure in shipyards have led to long-term health consequences, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related diseases. Recognizing these risks is essential for ensuring proper medical care and compensation for affected individuals.

Who Was Most at Risk?

While all sailors and Navy personnel faced daily exposure to asbestos aboard ships, certain roles were at significantly higher risk due to their direct involvement with asbestos-containing materials. These individuals often worked in confined spaces, handling or disturbing asbestos-laden components, which released hazardous fibers into the air.

Shipboard Personnel

Machinist’s Mates & Boiler Technicians: These personnel worked in engine and boiler rooms, where asbestos was heavily used for insulation on pipes, boilers, and turbines. Their duties often involved replacing worn-out insulation, exposing them to high concentrations of asbestos fibers.

Electricians & Pipefitters: Electricians installed and maintained asbestos-wrapped wiring, while pipefitters worked with asbestos-insulated pipes throughout the ship. Both roles required cutting, fitting, and repairing materials, which disturbed asbestos and created airborne fibers.

Hull Technicians & Welders: Responsible for repairing fireproof coatings, hull linings, and deck insulation, these workers frequently handled asbestos-containing materials. Welding and cutting tasks often released asbestos fibers from surrounding insulation and coatings.

Shipyard Workers & Mechanics

Shipbuilders & Overhaul Crews: Shipbuilders and overhaul crews in Navy shipyards worked directly with asbestos-laden construction materials, such as insulation, gaskets, and fireproofing sprays. Their tasks included cutting, shaping, and installing these materials, which generated significant asbestos dust.

Marine Mechanics & Enginemen: These workers maintained and repaired asbestos-lined turbines, pumps, and engines. Routine maintenance tasks, such as replacing gaskets or seals, often disturbed asbestos-containing components.

Painters & Insulators: Painters applied spray-on asbestos coatings to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces, often in confined spaces with poor ventilation. Insulators installed and repaired asbestos-containing thermal insulation, frequently working in high-exposure environments.

The individuals in these roles faced some of the highest levels of asbestos exposure, often without adequate protective measures. This prolonged exposure has led to severe health consequences, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, underscoring the need for awareness, medical monitoring, and compensation for affected workers.

Long-Term Health Risks for Navy Veterans

Navy veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service are now facing serious health consequences, often decades after their initial exposure. The long latency period of asbestos-related diseases—ranging from 20 to 50 years—means that many veterans are only now being diagnosed with the following conditions:

Mesothelioma: This is the most severe and aggressive asbestos-related cancer, primarily affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum). Mesothelioma is strongly associated with occupational asbestos exposure, making it tragically common among sailors, shipyard workers, and others who worked in high-risk roles.

Lung Cancer: Prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers in confined ship spaces significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. The risk is compounded for veterans who smoked, as the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure greatly amplifies the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Asbestosis: A chronic and progressive lung disease caused by heavy and prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is characterized by scarring of lung tissue, leading to symptoms such as breathlessness, persistent coughing, and chest pain.

Pleural Plaques & Thickening: These conditions involve scarring and thickening of the pleura (the lining of the lungs) due to the accumulation of asbestos fibers. While pleural plaques are not cancerous, they are a clear marker of asbestos exposure and may indicate an increased risk of developing more severe diseases.

Learn more about the diseases asbestos can cause.

The Importance of Early Detection and Support

Veterans diagnosed with these conditions often face significant health challenges. Early detection, regular medical monitoring, and access to specialized care are critical for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Additionally, veterans may be eligible for compensation and benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or other legal avenues, providing much-needed support for those affected by asbestos-related diseases.

Legal Options for Navy Veterans

Navy veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases have several legal avenues to seek compensation and medical benefits. These options are designed to provide financial relief and support for the significant health challenges caused by asbestos exposure during military service.

Asbestos Trust Claims: Many asbestos manufacturers that supplied materials to the Navy have since declared bankruptcy and established trust funds to compensate victims. Veterans can file claims with these asbestos trust funds to receive compensation for their illnesses without the need for lengthy litigation.

Lawsuits Against Asbestos Manufacturers: While the Navy itself is immune from lawsuits, veterans can pursue legal claims against the companies that manufactured and supplied asbestos-containing products used in ships and shipyards. These lawsuits can result in significant compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

VA Disability Benefits: Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, or other asbestos-related conditions due to service-related exposure may qualify for monthly VA disability compensation. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes asbestos exposure as a service-related hazard, making it possible for veterans to access medical care and financial support.

Learn more about the legal process and how to file claims for asbestos-related diseases.

If you’d like to know what your rights are, call 833-4-ASBESTOS for a Free Case Evaluation. Experienced professionals can guide veterans through the claims process and help them secure the compensation they deserve.

Conclusion

The U.S. Navy’s extensive use of asbestos in ships and shipyards has left a lasting legacy of health risks for generations of sailors and shipyard workers. Decades after their service, many Navy veterans are still being diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. These illnesses are a direct result of the Navy’s reliance on asbestos-containing materials, which were widely used for insulation, fireproofing, and other applications.

If you or a loved one served in the Navy and have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, there are legal and financial resources available to help. Veterans may qualify for compensation through asbestos trust funds, VA benefits, and lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers. These options can provide critical financial support for medical expenses, lost income, and other hardships caused by asbestos exposure.

📞 Call 833-4-ASBESTOS – Get a Free Consultation to explore your legal options and secure the compensation you deserve. Taking action today can make a significant difference in managing the challenges of asbestos-related diseases and ensuring justice for those affected.