Offshore Shipbuilding Inc.

Offshore Shipbuilding, Inc. was established in Palatka, Florida on an inlet of the St. John's River, about 20 miles southwest of St. Augustine. Offshore Shipbuilding constructed and repaired a variety of vessels including tugs, ferries, fishing boats, barges, pollution control ships, and offshore service vessels. Its clients included the State of North Carolina, fisheries, sea transport companies, and private interests.

A relatively small operation with less than 100 employees, Offshore Building was replaced at the site by St. John's Shipbuilding Co.

Asbestos in the Shipbuilding Industry

Asbestos has been a concern in the shipbuilding industry for many decades. Asbestos was widely used in the early half of the 20th century as part of extensive efforts to improve fire safety aboard ships ─ especially passenger ships. After the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, the first requirements regarding fire protection in international shipping were implemented.

After another fire in 1934 aboard a passenger ship caused 134 fatalities, additional fire regulations increased the perceived need for asbestos components on board ships. Hundreds of asbestos-containing materials and products began to be used in ships of all sizes and types. The dangers of asbestos, although long known, were not adequately addressed at shipyards across the United States and around the world.

Asbestos Is a Human Carcinogen

Unfortunately, the men and women who worked at shipyards were at risk of inhaling the fibers of asbestos that are released into the air whenever an asbestos component is handled or deteriorating. The asbestos fibers, once inhaled, lodge themselves in the human body, where they may cause cancer (e.g., lung cancer, pleural cancer, and mesothelioma) and other respiratory diseases.

If You Have an Asbestos-Related Disease

Working with asbestos can cause significant, even life-threatening illnesses. If your time at Offshore Shipbuilding or similar facility has resulted in an asbestos-related disease, contact us for assistance.