Asbestos exposure remains a major health concern for many Merchant Marine veterans, as they were unknowingly exposed to this hazardous substance during their service. Asbestos was widely used on ships for its heat resistance and insulating properties, which made it ideal for a variety of shipboard applications. However, these same properties also made asbestos dangerous, leading to serious health issues such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. This article covers the types of ships in the Merchant Marine fleet that had asbestos exposure, the common exposure sites, and the legal rights of veterans diagnosed with these diseases.
Many Merchant Marine veterans, particularly those who served on ships built between the 1930s and 1980s, faced significant asbestos exposure. Asbestos was extensively used in insulation, gaskets, pipes, and boilers aboard these vessels. Shipyard workers, as well as those stationed on ships, were at risk due to asbestos present in both construction and repair materials.
Asbestos exposure among Merchant Mariners has led to severe health conditions, with approximately 3,000 veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. If you are experiencing symptoms related to asbestos exposure, it's crucial to seek medical advice and explore your benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. You are not alone—help and support are available.
History of Asbestos Exposure for Merchant Marine Veterans
Asbestos was widely used in the construction and maintenance of Merchant Marine ships due to its heat resistance, fireproofing properties, and durability. From the 1930s through the 1980s, asbestos was incorporated into many components of ships, including insulation, gaskets, pipes, and boilers. Veterans working aboard these ships, as well as those involved in ship construction or repairs, were exposed to asbestos during routine maintenance, repairs, or when ships were under construction. This exposure often occurred in confined spaces, such as engine rooms, boiler rooms, and cargo holds, where asbestos-containing materials were prevalent.
Many Merchant Marine veterans were unaware of the dangers of asbestos exposure, as the risks were not widely understood at the time. Asbestos-related diseases often take decades to manifest, so many veterans didn’t receive diagnoses of mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis until years after their service.
Common Types of Merchant Marine Ships Exposed to Asbestos
- Cargo Ships
Cargo ships, which made up the majority of the Merchant Marine fleet, were built with asbestos-containing materials for fireproofing, insulation, and durability. Veterans working in the engine rooms, boiler rooms, or handling cargo were exposed to asbestos when these materials were disturbed.
- Tankers
Oil and chemical tankers in the Merchant Marine fleet used asbestos for insulation, gaskets, and fireproofing. Crew members working in these areas, especially near boilers, pipes, and engines, were at risk of inhaling harmful asbestos fibers during maintenance or repairs.
- Passenger Ships
Asbestos was used extensively in passenger ships for thermal insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing. Merchant Mariners working in the engine rooms or cabins were exposed when working with or near these asbestos materials, which were often in high-traffic areas.
- Military Sealift Command Ships
Military Sealift Command ships, used for transporting military goods, were often built with asbestos-containing materials for insulation and fireproofing. Veterans involved in repairs or maintenance were exposed to asbestos when these materials deteriorated or were disturbed during routine work.
- Liners and Luxury Ships
Liners and luxury passenger ships used in the Merchant Marine fleet often contained asbestos for insulation and fireproofing. Merchant Mariners working in these vessels’ engine rooms, passenger quarters, and maintenance areas were exposed to asbestos-containing materials.
- Fishing Vessels
Merchant Marine fishing vessels used asbestos in various components, including engine insulation and gaskets. Crew members working in confined spaces or maintaining equipment were at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers.
Common Places of Asbestos Exposure for Merchant Marine Veterans
- Ship Decks and Engine Rooms
Asbestos was widely used in engine rooms, boiler rooms, and other heat-sensitive areas on Merchant Marine ships. Crew members were exposed to asbestos when maintaining, repairing, or working near insulation, pipes, and boilers containing asbestos.
- Shipyards and Dry Docks
Merchant Mariners working in shipyards, particularly those built in the mid-20th century, faced significant asbestos exposure. During the construction, maintenance, and repair of ships, asbestos-containing materials were used extensively, putting workers at risk.
- Cargo Holds and Storage Areas
Asbestos was used in insulation and fireproofing materials in cargo holds and storage areas. Merchant Mariners working in these spaces were exposed to asbestos fibers during cargo handling, maintenance, or repairs.
- Merchant Marine Aircraft
Merchant Marine aircraft, such as seaplanes and transport aircraft, often used asbestos for insulation and fireproofing. Personnel involved in aircraft maintenance were exposed to asbestos when working on or repairing these aircraft components.
- Veteran's Housing Aboard Ships
Veterans who lived aboard ships, especially during long deployments, were exposed to asbestos in the ship's insulation, flooring, and electrical systems. Prolonged exposure in confined spaces, such as living quarters, significantly raised the risk of asbestos-related diseases.
