Asbestos Exposure in Pennsylvania Shipyards


In Pennsylvania, several shipyards have been historically associated with asbestos exposure, particularly before the regulations of the 1980s curtailed its widespread use. Asbestos was commonly utilized in shipyards for its fire-resistant properties, which made it an ideal material for building and repairing ships, especially in areas prone to high heat and fire risks. Here are the notable shipyards in Pennsylvania where workers might have been exposed to asbestos:

  1. Penn Shipbuilding – Located in Chester, Penn Shipbuilding was active during peak periods of naval and commercial ship production. Workers at this shipyard were potentially exposed to asbestos, which was used in numerous ship components, including insulation, boilers, and fireproofing materials.
  2. Philadelphia Naval Shipyard – This shipyard is one of the most well-known in Pennsylvania, with a long history of shipbuilding and repair operations. It employed thousands of civilians and military personnel who may have come into contact with asbestos, especially those who worked on ships built or maintained before the 1980s. The shipyard continued to operate into the late 20th century, and residual asbestos in older ships and facilities might still pose risks.
  3. Sun Shipbuilding – Also located in Chester, Sun Shipbuilding was another major site where asbestos exposure was a concern. This shipyard specialized in building and repairing commercial and military ships, with asbestos materials used extensively until the late 1970s.

Workers at these shipyards, particularly during and after World War II and up to the late 20th century, were at a heightened risk of asbestos exposure. The latency period of asbestos-related diseases means that former shipyard workers might still develop health issues many years after their initial exposure. As a result, ongoing monitoring and health screenings are crucial for those who worked in these environments.