Norfolk Naval Shipyard Asbestos Exposure

What This Page Covers:

• Historical Significance: Established in 1767, Norfolk Naval Shipyard has been vital to U.S. naval operations, playing roles in major wars and the evolution of naval technology.
• Asbestos Exposure: From the 1930s to the 1980s, extensive asbestos use in ship construction exposed many workers and their families to severe health risks.
• Ongoing Risks: Even today, shipyard workers face asbestos hazards when maintaining older vessels, especially during tasks like pipe replacement and boiler repairs.
• Legal Support: The Williams Law Firm, P.C. provides personalized legal services to help victims of asbestos exposure secure the compensation they deserve.
• Reach out to us today at (855) 575-6376 or visit our contact form.

The rich history of Norfolk Naval Shipyard is a testament to its significant role in America’s naval prowess and innovation. Established in 1767, this shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, has been at the forefront of naval architecture and military readiness from the American Revolution to the modern day. However, this prestigious legacy is shadowed by a more somber issue: the extensive use of asbestos in shipbuilding and repair. For decades, countless workers at Norfolk Naval Shipyard have faced serious health risks due to asbestos exposure, leading to severe illnesses like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

These health challenges have not only impacted workers but also extended to families through secondary exposure, adding to the suffering and financial burden. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we have focused knowledge of asbestos exposure cases, particularly from historical shipyards. Lead Norfolk naval shipyard asbestos exposure attorney Joseph P. Williams uses actual naval archive records that include a complete list of equipment from the ships to seek the justice and compensation that victims rightfully deserve. This way, he works to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.

What Is the History of Norfolk Naval Shipyard? 

Founded in 1767 as Gosport Shipyard under British rule, Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, has played an essential role in American naval history. During the American Revolution, it was seized by the Colony of Virginia and later renamed Norfolk in 1862. 

This shipyard has contributed to the success of nine major wars, combated piracy, facilitated the iconic voyage of the Great White Fleet, aided in the scientific exploration of the Pacific, and played a crucial role in opening Japanese markets to American trade. Shipbuilding activities at the shipyard continued until 1953.

In World War II, the shipyard’s workforce peaked at nearly 43,000 employees, constructing close to 30 significant vessels and repairing 6,850 U.S. and Allied ships, including building 20 tank landing ships and 50 medium landing craft.

During the Korean War, the yard completed projects on over 1,250 naval vessels and built two wooden minesweepers. By 1965, the shipyard advanced into the nuclear age, servicing the USS Skate II, the first modern submarine to receive a major overhaul.

Currently, the shipyard focuses on the repair, overhaul, and modernization of ships and submarines, with about 12,000 military and civilian personnel.

How Are Norfolk Naval Shipyard Workers Exposed to Asbestos? 

A significant health issue related to the shipyard is asbestos exposure. Many workers, and even their families through secondhand exposure, have suffered from asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma due to the shipyard’s extensive use of asbestos in ship construction. Asbestos was favored for its fire-resistant and insulative properties, which were prevalent in the construction and repair of naval vessels up until the 1980s.

Workers at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, especially from the 1930s to the 1980s, were at a heightened risk due to the frequent use of asbestos in insulation and other applications. This risk extended to a variety of naval personnel and shipyard workers who handled the material daily, particularly in confined and poorly ventilated spaces such as boiler rooms.

In more recent times, asbestos exposure remains a risk during the maintenance or decommissioning of older vessels built before the 1980s. Tasks like pipe replacement or boiler repairs can expose workers to asbestos, underscoring an ongoing occupational hazard.

How The Williams Law Firm, P.C. Can Help You 

If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness due to exposure in a shipyard, prioritizing your health is essential. However, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of your treatment if you were exposed to asbestos through someone else’s actions.

The Williams Law Firm, P.C. has focused knowledge of shipyard asbestos exposure and can manage your case in full detail. We fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your health and recovery. 

Our legal team offers personalized services and provides numerous benefits, including the following:

• A thorough investigation of your case details
• Accurate assessment of your claim’s value
• Organization of your medical expenses and other costs
• Negotiations on your behalf with all relevant parties
• Detailed analysis of applicable laws
• Connections with reputable medical experts
• Strong case building to support your claims
• Prompt and correct filing of all necessary paperwork
• Answers to all your legal inquiries
• Guidance throughout the complex legal proceedings

At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., each case is treated with a unique approach, focusing on your specific needs and vigorously defending your rights and interests.

Speak With the Norfolk Naval Shipyard Asbestos Exposure Lawyers at The Williams Law Firm, P.C.

If you or a loved one is suffering from an asbestos-related illness due to exposure at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, seeking legal assistance can make a significant difference. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we bring decades of experience and a successful track record in mesothelioma and asbestos exposure cases. Founding partner Joseph P. Williams has never lost a mesothelioma case, demonstrating our dedication to securing the compensation you may be entitled to.

We understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with these health challenges. Our approach is personal and thorough, ensuring every detail of your case is managed from start to finish. From assessing the value of your claim to navigating complex legal procedures, our team is here to fight for your rights. Contact us today at (855) 575-6376 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.