Many professionals are at risk of being exposed to asbestos in the workplace ; however shipyard workers are among those that are at the highest risk. During the 1930s, 40s, 50s and 60s, the U.S. shipbuilding industry had their employees use many asbestos-containing materials to build the ships because of asbestos' durability and resistance to heat and friction.

Where asbestos can be found on ships

Asbestos was commonly used to insulate steam pipes, incinerators, boilers and other parts of Naval, commercial and privately-owned ships. Following is a list of other asbestos-containing products found in shipyards:

• Pipe coverings
• Asbestos cement
• Firebrick
• Fireproofing sprays
• Packing products
• Gaskets
• Ceiling & flooring paneling
• Electrical fittings
• Boiler rooms

Studies show that 86 percent of workers with 20 or more years of shipbuilding experience will develop an asbestos-related disease. Because asbestos-related diseases can take up to 50 years to develop, the effects of asbestos exposure during the war years are now being seen.

Illnesses caused by asbestos exposure:

• Mesothelioma: A rare form of cancer that attacks the lining of the lungs, stomach or heart. It is the only form of cancer that is directly related to asbestos exposure .
• Lung cancer: Smoking can increase the risk of developing lung cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos.
• Asbestosis: The loose fibers can become embedded in the lungs and cause severe irritation. After a period of time, scar tissue develops and can cause chronic chest pain, shortness of breath and uncontrollable coughing.

The effects of asbestos were discovered in the 1970s. Since then, asbestos-use has been banned from most industries.

Today's shipyard workers are required to wear protective gear when handling asbestos-laden materials. All shipyards are also required to maintain showers and changing facilities so the workers can rinse off and change into fresh clothing before they leave the premises. This is to prevent the workers from transporting the loose, toxic fibers home in their clothing or shoes.