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Washington Shipyards With Asbestos Exposure

Posted on: April 16, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

The shipyards in Washington State have historically been significant sites for asbestos exposure, primarily because asbestos-containing materials were widely used in ship construction and repair until the 1980s. Workers and veterans who served or worked in these facilities are at a heightened risk of exposure, which could lead to serious health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Here are some of the known shipyards in Washington that have been associated with asbestos exposure:

  1. Bremerton Naval Shipyard – One of the largest and most significant naval shipyards on the West Coast, known for extensive shipbuilding and repair activities.
  2. Duwamish Shipyard – Located in Seattle, involved in ship repair and refitting operations where asbestos was commonly used.
  3. Kaiser Shipyard – Known for building ships during World War II, where asbestos was widely used due to its heat-resistant properties.
  4. Lake Union Drydock Company – Involved in both commercial and military ship repair, with a history of asbestos use in construction materials and equipment.
  5. Lockheed Shipbuilding – This facility was involved in constructing various vessels where asbestos-containing materials were utilized.
  6. Naval Station Everett – Although newer than some other facilities, older parts of the station and certain ships might still pose risks of asbestos exposure.
  7. Puget Sound Bridge & Dredge Shipyard – Known for shipbuilding and bridge construction, areas where asbestos materials were typically used.
  8. Puget Sound Naval Shipyard – Significant for its shipbuilding and repair activities, this shipyard has a documented history of asbestos use.
  9. Tacoma Boatbuilding Company – Specialized in building military patrol boats and other vessels that incorporated asbestos materials.
  10. Todd Shipyards – Seattle and Tacoma – Both locations have been critical in ship repair and building, using asbestos extensively throughout their operations.
  11. Vancouver Shipyard – Engaged in building and repairing ships where asbestos was commonly used in construction materials.
  12. Voyage Repair Station – Port Angeles – A facility involved in the repair and maintenance of ships, potentially using asbestos-containing materials.

It’s crucial for anyone who was employed at these shipyards, especially prior to the 1980s, to monitor their health and consult a healthcare professional if they suspect asbestos exposure. Awareness and medical surveillance can be key in managing health risks associated with asbestos.