San Francisco Naval Shipyard
Also known as Hunters Point Naval Shipyard, the San Francisco Naval Shipyard began as a commercial shipyard in the 19th century. The Navy acquired the property shortly before the US entered World War II. Over the next few decades, a large number of Navy ships were built, modified, and repaired at this shipyard. In 1946, the shipyard also became the home of the Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory.
In 1989, the Hunters Point Naval Shipyard was declared a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency. This was largely due to pollution of the area caused by the nuclear research and decontamination of nuclear ships conducted on the site. However, this is not the only hazard faced by people who have lived and worked on or near the shipyard.
San Francisco Naval Shipyard and Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once valued highly for its low costs and flame-resistant qualities. From the 1930s through the 1970s, the Navy used asbestos extensively in the construction and repair of its ships. Shockingly, evidence suggests that some members of the Navy allowed the use of asbestos despite knowing about its dangers.
When asbestos is handled, small fibers can break off and be released into the air. When inhaled by nearby people, these fibers can cause extensive damage to the lungs, potentially leading to a buildup of scar tissue. Over time, this can lead to major health conditions such as the cancer mesothelioma.
Although the Navy has not used asbestos in decades, the threat continues. Mesothelioma often develops very slowly, over the course of years or even decades. As a result, some veterans of World War II or the Korean War are only now being diagnosed with this disease or related conditions.
Contact Us
If you or a love one has worked on a San Francisco naval shipyard prior to 1980, you could be at risk for asbestos-related medical conditions. To learn more about asbestos exposure in navy shipyards and your eligibility for compensation, please contact us at 1-800-781-3955.
