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Historical Exposure to Asbestos from Oregon Shipyards

Posted on: April 23, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

Oregon’s shipyards, scattered along its coastal regions, were pivotal hubs for maritime activities, particularly during periods of war and industrial expansion. Unfortunately, the history of these shipyards is also marked by the presence of asbestos, a material once hailed for its versatility and fire-resistant properties but now recognized as a significant health hazard.

  1. Albina Shipyards: Situated in Portland, Albina Shipyards played a crucial role in building vessels during World War II. Like many shipyards of its time, Albina extensively used asbestos in its construction materials, insulation, and equipment.
  2. Astoria Marine Shipyard: Located in Astoria, this shipyard contributed to the construction and repair of various vessels. Workers here faced similar risks of asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials.
  3. Cascade General Inc.: Based in Portland, Cascade General Inc. was a major player in ship repair and construction. Asbestos was commonly used in shipbuilding during its operational years, putting workers at risk of exposure.
  4. Dyer Shipyard: This shipyard, located in Portland, also played a role in ship construction and repair. Workers here would have encountered asbestos in insulation, pipe covering, and other materials.
  5. Northwest Marine Ironworks: Another Portland-based shipyard, Northwest Marine Ironworks, was active during periods of significant maritime activity. Asbestos exposure was likely common among its workforce.
  6. Portland Ship Repair Yard: With its focus on ship repair and maintenance, this Portland shipyard would have used asbestos-containing materials extensively, posing risks to workers’ health.
  7. South Portland Shipyard and Marine Railways Corporation: This shipyard, located in South Portland, would have had similar asbestos exposure risks due to its activities in ship construction and repair.
  8. Swan Island Shipyard: Positioned in Portland, Swan Island Shipyard was one of the largest shipbuilding facilities on the West Coast during its prime. Asbestos would have been prevalent in its construction materials and equipment.
  9. Tongue Point Naval Shipyard: Located near Astoria, this naval shipyard played a vital role in repairing and maintaining naval vessels. Workers here were also exposed to asbestos, given its widespread use in naval construction.
  10. Willamette Shipyard: Situated in Portland, Willamette Shipyard was known for its shipbuilding capabilities. Asbestos exposure would have been a significant concern for its workers.

Before the 1980s, when asbestos regulations became stricter, workers in these shipyards, both civilian and military, faced heightened risks of asbestos-related illnesses due to prolonged exposure. Even today, workers may encounter asbestos from older ships and equipment, emphasizing the ongoing importance of awareness, prevention, and proper safety measures in shipyard environments.