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Connecticut and Florida Shipyards with Asbestos Exposure

Posted on: April 14, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

The shipyards in Connecticut and Florida have a historical significance due to their role in shipbuilding and maintenance, which unfortunately has been linked to asbestos exposure among Navy veterans and other shipyard workers. Here are the sites in both states where this exposure was particularly noted.

Connecticut Shipyards With Asbestos Exposure

  • General Dynamics Electric Boat: Known for constructing submarines, this site in Groton has been a major location for shipbuilding, where workers were likely exposed to asbestos, especially when working on older submarines.
  • Thames Shipyard: Located in New London, this shipyard has also been a potential site for asbestos exposure, particularly in the repair and overhaul of ships.
  • Naval Submarine Base New London: This base in Groton, operating since 1916, has been a central hub for the Navy’s submarine operations and has historical instances of asbestos exposure due to the nature of the work and the era in which asbestos was heavily used.

Florida Shipyards With Asbestos Exposure

  • Atlantic Dry Dock: Situated in Jacksonville, this facility has been involved in ship repair and refurbishment, where asbestos exposure could have occurred, especially in tasks involving older vessels.
  • Bellinger Shipyard: This shipyard in Jacksonville has served as another location where shipbuilding and repair may have involved asbestos materials.
  • Gulf Marine Repair: In Tampa, it specializes in ship repair and conversion, posing similar asbestos risks.
  • Hendry Corporation: Known for ship repair and building services in Tampa, it is another site of potential asbestos exposure.
  • Hooker’s Point Yard: Located in Tampa, this yard has been involved in maritime activities where asbestos exposure could have been a risk.
  • Mayport Naval Station: This naval facility near Jacksonville has had extensive ship maintenance operations that likely used asbestos in the past.
  • Offshore Shipbuilding: Based in Palatka, this shipyard could have involved asbestos in the construction and repair of vessels.
  • Pensacola Naval Air Station: Known for military operations and training, the maintenance and repair of naval vessels here could also have included asbestos use.
  • Tampa Bay Shipbuilding: Engaged in shipbuilding and repair, this Tampa site has been another focal point for potential asbestos exposure.

These shipyards, particularly active before the 1980s, reflect the widespread industrial use of asbestos for its durability and heat-resistant properties, especially relevant in ship construction and repair. Unfortunately, this led to health risks for those exposed to asbestos fibers, which can cause severe lung and respiratory issues over time. The recognition of these risks has led to changes in safety standards and practices in shipyards to mitigate asbestos exposure.