Michigan Shipyard Asbestos Exposure has affected thousands of hardworking men and women who helped build and repair vessels along the Great Lakes. From Detroit to Bay City and Grand Haven, shipyard tradesmen were regularly exposed to asbestos dust while constructing, repairing, or maintaining ships coated with asbestos insulation, cement, gaskets, and boilers. This hidden danger left many workers facing mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related illnesses decades later.
For much of the 20th century, asbestos was used throughout Michigan shipyards because of its resistance to heat and fire. Every time a pipe was insulated, a gasket replaced, or an engine repaired, asbestos fibers were released into the air. These fibers lingered, exposing everyone nearby — from welders and machinists to electricians and laborers — to the same deadly risks.
Michigan Shipyards Linked to Asbestos
- Bay City Shipbuilding & Repair Yards: Industrial facilities along the Saginaw River where asbestos was used in hull insulation and machinery rooms.
- Detroit River and River Rouge Shipyards: Sites that serviced cargo vessels and tugboats coated with asbestos products for thermal protection.
- Great Lakes Freighter Maintenance Docks: Workers repairing aging commercial ships often encountered asbestos gaskets and lagging.
- Ludington and Grand Haven Boat Works: Smaller but high-volume repair sites where asbestos cement and exhaust wrapping were routine.
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Common Trades at Risk
- Pipefitters, insulators, and boiler mechanics
- Welders, machinists, and metal fabricators
- Electricians and maintenance staff
- Painters, carpenters, and laborers removing asbestos debris
Even decades after closure, many shipyard structures and dry docks in Michigan still contain asbestos contamination that can become airborne during renovations or demolition.
Legal Rights and Compensation
If you worked in a Michigan shipyard and later developed an asbestos-related illness, you may qualify for financial compensation through asbestos trust funds or legal claims. Attorney Lee W. Davis represents shipyard workers and families across Michigan, using detailed work histories and product records to establish exposure and secure recoveries.
Our office provides free case evaluations and handles claims involving mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis caused by occupational asbestos exposure.
Call (412) 781-0525 or visit leewdavis.com for your free Michigan case review. Licensed in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
FAQs – Michigan Shipyard Asbestos Exposure
How were Michigan shipyard workers exposed to asbestos?
Asbestos fibers were released during insulation, grinding, or repair of machinery and ship components.
What diseases are linked to shipyard asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and chronic respiratory disease are common outcomes.
Do shipyard workers still face asbestos risks today?
Many old shipyard sites and vessels still contain asbestos, creating potential hazards during maintenance or demolition.
How long after exposure do symptoms appear?
Asbestos diseases usually develop 20–50 years after exposure.
What should I do if diagnosed?
Seek legal representation immediately to protect your rights and pursue compensation.