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Charleston Naval Shipyard Asbestos Exposure

The Charleston Naval Shipyard was once a thriving center of naval vessel construction, maintenance, and repair in South Carolina. Throughout its operational years, thousands of shipyard workers were unknowingly exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos, a fibrous mineral widely used for its heat resistance and insulating properties. If you or someone you know worked at Charleston Naval Shipyard and has developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, understanding this exposure and the legal options available to you is crucial. 

The Williams Law Firm, P.C. has never lost a mesothelioma case and we are committed to fighting for workers affected by occupational asbestos exposure. Attorney Joseph P. Williams has over 30 years of experience representing victims of asbestos exposure at naval facilities like Charleston Naval Shipyard. Our firm utilizes actual naval archive records that include complete equipment lists from shipyard operations, allowing us to precisely identify where and when asbestos was present during your employment period.

How Was Asbestos Used at Charleston Naval Shipyard?

Charleston Naval Shipyard was a major employer in the region and played a significant role in naval operations during World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. From the early 1900s to the late 1970s, asbestos was used extensively throughout the shipyard and across many other industries. The shipyard’s use of asbestos peaked during World War II when production demands increased dramatically. During this time, asbestos was considered an essential material for naval vessels due to its fire-resistant properties, and regulations regarding its safe handling were minimal or nonexistent. 

Workers regularly handled asbestos-containing materials without proper respiratory protection or safety measures. As a result, many of these workers were placed at serious risk of developing serious illnesses related to asbestos exposure. These diseases include mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, and asbestosis. If you or a family member worked at the Charleston Naval Shipyard and were exposed to asbestos, you have the right to pursue justice. Attorney Joe Williams is here to help you build a strong claim that will allow you to recover the compensation you deserve for your losses.

High-Risk Occupations at Charleston Naval Shipyard

The workers who were at high risk of asbestos exposure while working at the Charleston Naval Shipyard include the following:

  • Insulators 
  • Pipefitters and steamfitters 
  • Boilermakers 
  • Welders 
  • Electricians 
  • Shipfitters 
  • Machinists

The nature of shipyard work often required these tradespeople to work in confined spaces with poor ventilation, where asbestos fibers could become highly concentrated if the mineral was disturbed or damaged in any way. Many workers reported working in environments filled with visible dust that contained asbestos fibers, small enough to be inhaled but invisible to the naked eye.

Common Asbestos-Containing Materials at the Charleston Naval Shipyard

Charleston Naval Shipyard utilized numerous asbestos-containing materials throughout its facilities and in ship construction:

  • Thermal insulation for pipes, boilers, and steam lines
  • Fireproofing materials and fire blankets
  • Gaskets and packing materials
  • Electrical insulation and wiring
  • Cement products and flooring materials
  • Spray-on insulation for acoustic and thermal purposes
  • Protective clothing and gloves

When these materials were cut, sanded, removed, damaged, or disturbed during shipbuilding and repair processes, they released microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. Once inhaled, these fibers can remain lodged in the lungs for decades before causing symptoms of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

What Damages Can You Recover From Filing an Asbestos Exposure Claim?

Asbestos exposure victims may face significant financial losses due to expenses related to their asbestos exposure. As a result, it is important for victims to understand their legal rights to pursue fair compensation. 

The damages you may be eligible to recover when filing your asbestos exposure claim include the following:

  • Medical expenses: Coverage for all treatment-related costs, including diagnostic testing, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, medications, and potential future medical needs
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity: Compensation for income lost during treatment and recovery, as well as reduced ability to earn income in the future
  • Pain and suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the illness
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed
  • Funeral and burial expenses: In cases where mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases result in death

The specific compensation available depends on several factors, including the severity of your illness, your work history, the companies responsible for your exposure, and how the asbestos exposure affected your life and family. To ensure you are able to recover the best possible settlement for your case, contact our trusted legal team today.

Let The Williams Law Firm, P.C. Fight for Your Rights

If you worked at Charleston Naval Shipyard and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you need an advocate who understands the complex history of asbestos use in naval facilities. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we handle your case as our cause, not just another file. Our approach is built on personalized service and a deep understanding of shipyard asbestos exposure.

Attorney Joe Williams has dedicated his career to helping mesothelioma victims receive the compensation they deserve. With 30 years of experience, he will personally meet with you in your home to discuss your case and options. We have never lost a mesothelioma case and are prepared to fight for you. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (855) 575-6376 or visiting our contact form.

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