Asbestos Lawyers

Asbestos Exposure at the Shipyard

People who constructed or worked on ships prior to the 1970’s are among the most vulnerable populations for mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, and other serious conditions. At that point in history, many parts of ships were built with asbestos for the sake of fire safety. Additionally, the poorly ventilated area that shipbuilders often had to work in put them at an even higher risk.

A Continuing Threat

The use of asbestos on shipyards has decreased substantially since the 1980’s. However, since the true effects of asbestos exposure can take years to show, many older workers are only now beginning to show symptoms. In fact, throughout the 1990’s, shipyard workers had the second highest rate of asbestos-related deaths of all industries.

Part of this is due to the boom in ship construction that occurred during World War II, at a time when the dangers of asbestos were not well known to the general public. It is especially painful to think that the young men and women who agreed to help the war effort are being repaid with deadly illnesses. That’s why mesothelioma lawyers Williams Kherker are committed to doing what they can to at least help victims win fair compensation for their injuries.

Current Asbestos Safety Issues

If the use of asbestos on shipyards has been decreasing, does that mean they are safe now? The answer to that may vary from one location to the next. Shipyards are certainly safer than they used to be, but the threat of asbestos has not completely been eliminated. Older ships and shipyards may still contain asbestos, especially in their insulation or fireproofing materials.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has been injured by exposure to asbestos, we can help. Contact asbestos lawyers Williams Kherkher at 800-781-3955.