Asbestos Exposure at Lockheed Shipbuilding

Lockheed Shipbuilding, initially established as Puget Sound Bridge & Dredging Company in 1898, was acquired by Lockheed in 1959. This shipyard, active until 1988, played a significant role in constructing various ships, including notable ones like USS Schofield and USS Juneau. During these decades, asbestos was extensively used in shipbuilding, heightening the risk of asbestos-related diseases among workers.

Lockheed Shipbuilding History with Asbestos | Mesothelioma

Asbestos in Ship Construction and Repairs

Until the late 1970s, asbestos was a preferred material in shipbuilding for its heat resistance and fireproofing capabilities. It was integral in building various ship types, such as destroyer escorts, oilers, and guided-missile frigates. The eventual closure of the shipyard in 1988, due to competition from Avondale Shipbuilding, marked an end to this construction phase.

Harbor Island’s Transformation and Environmental Impact

Following the closure, Harbor Island, the site of Lockheed Shipbuilding, was designated a Superfund site, reflecting significant environmental concerns, including asbestos contamination. By 2020, substantial cleanup efforts were undertaken, and the area now hosts various industrial businesses. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides more information on Superfund sites and cleanup efforts.

Health Risks from Asbestos Exposure

Lockheed Shipbuilding’s extensive use of asbestos put many workers at risk of asbestos-related diseases. This risk extended to their families through secondary exposure. Reports of asbestosis, lung cancer, and various forms of mesothelioma are linked to this exposure.

Specific Asbestos Risks in Shipbuilding

During its operational years, Lockheed Shipbuilding incorporated asbestos in boilers, incinerators, and ship insulations. Ceiling and floor tiles on ships also contained asbestos, increasing the risk during installation or repairs.

Exposure Scenarios at the Shipyard

The shipyard was a hub for both military and civilian personnel, leading to widespread asbestos exposure. Poor ventilation on ships exacerbated the risk, particularly for roles like plumbers and pipefitters, who worked with asbestos-insulated fixtures.

Ongoing Asbestos Risks and Precautions

According to NIOSH, There were about 165,000 workers employed in shipyards in the U.S. in 2020. Although asbestos use declined before the 1980s, current risks remain, particularly when working on older ships. Activities like cutting or sanding asbestos-containing materials can still release harmful fibers.