Newport Naval Yard

The Newport Naval Yard in Rhode Island is one of many shipyards that has used asbestos in its operations. Before the serious dangers of asbestos were known, this material was used to insulate walls, ceilings, and floors, cover hot water and steam pipes, mix with cement, fireproof various materials, and much more around the shipyard. Though the practical application of asbestos has some merits, this substance can be extremely harmful to human health.

Asbestos Exposure at Newport Naval Yard

Anyone who worked in the Newport Naval Yard was at risk of exposure to this dangerous material. It isn't necessary to handle asbestos directly to be exposed, as asbestos dust particles enter the air and become inhaled or ingested by those in the area. Contact with airborne asbestos fibers puts individuals at risk for serious respiratory ailments and mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a lethal form of cancer that can affect the abdominal cavity, heart, and/or lungs.

Brief History of the Newport Naval Yard

The Newport Naval Yard has been used for a variety of purposes in the last two centuries. It was originally established in 1861 at the start of the Civil War. At this time it functioned as a replacement shipyard for one originally located in Annapolis, Maryland, protecting navy ships from Southern forces.

In 1865, after the war, it was moved back to Annapolis. Much later in the 1940s, the U.S. military used the Newport Naval Yard as a Naval Operating Base, which operated there until the 1970s. Currently the Newport Naval Yard is the site of the Naval Underwater System Center and the Naval War Academy. The Navy also uses the Newport Naval Yard to harbor and maintain inactive naval vessels for the military.

Was the Military Aware of Asbestos Dangers?

While the dangers of asbestos were not well known until the 1980s, some experts believe that the U.S. military knew of the potential threat posed by asbestos as early as the 1920s. In the early 1940s, just as the military was setting up new operations at the Newport Naval Yard, they acknowledged asbestos exposure as a hazardous working condition but continued to use the substance in massive quantities.

Though the military and other shipyard operators eventually began to look for asbestos alternatives, they were slow to do so. Some argue they were more concerned with cost savings than immediately removing the threat of physical harm to shipyard workers.

Did You Work at Newport Naval Yard?

If you or a loved one worked at the Newport Naval Yard and subsequently developed an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical, financial, and other losses. Contact us today to learn more.