Historical Asbestos Exposure in Maryland Shipyards


Asbestos exposure in Maryland, particularly in and around Baltimore, has been a significant concern due to the state’s industrial history. Several prominent shipyards and industrial sites, such as Baltimore Marine Industries, Bethlehem Steel Sparrows Point Shipyard, Curtis Bay Shipyard, and Key Highway Shipyard, have been associated with asbestos use in the past.

Asbestos was commonly used in shipbuilding and other industries for its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. However, its microscopic fibers, when released into the air, can be inhaled and pose serious health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Workers in shipyards, construction, insulation manufacturing, and other trades were often exposed to asbestos fibers during their daily activities.

Baltimore Marine Industries, located in the bustling port city of Baltimore, was a hub for shipbuilding and repair. Workers at this facility were frequently exposed to asbestos during the construction and maintenance of ships. Similarly, Bethlehem Steel Sparrows Point Shipyard, once one of the largest shipbuilding facilities in the world, relied heavily on asbestos-containing materials in its operations. Curtis Bay Shipyard and Key Highway Shipyard, also located in Baltimore, were other major contributors to the region’s industrial activity, where asbestos exposure was prevalent among workers.

Despite the known health risks associated with asbestos, regulations governing its use and disposal were not as stringent in the past as they are today. As a result, many workers in Maryland’s shipyards and other industrial sites were exposed to asbestos fibers without adequate protection or awareness of the dangers involved.

In recent years, efforts have been made to address asbestos contamination in Maryland and to support affected workers and communities. Asbestos abatement programs, worker safety initiatives, and public health campaigns aim to reduce exposure and mitigate the health risks associated with asbestos-related diseases.

However, the legacy of asbestos exposure continues to affect individuals in Maryland, including former shipyard workers, their families, and others who may have come into contact with asbestos fibers. Increased awareness, proactive measures to identify and remove asbestos-containing materials, and ongoing support for affected communities are crucial steps in addressing the long-term impact of asbestos exposure in Maryland’s industrial areas.