WV shipyard asbestos exposure has left a lasting impact on countless workers and their families. Shipbuilding and ship repair in West Virginia relied heavily on asbestos-containing materials well into the late 20th century. From insulating boilers and steam lines to lining engine rooms and decks, asbestos was everywhere—putting laborers, welders, pipefitters, and machinists at risk.
How Asbestos Was Used in WV Shipyards
During peak production years, shipyards in Huntington, Point Pleasant, and along the Ohio River used asbestos for its heat resistance and durability. Materials like pipe insulation, cement, gaskets, and fireproof coatings were standard. When disturbed during repairs, retrofits, or demolition, asbestos fibers became airborne and inhaled—causing irreversible damage decades later.
Workers and Families at Risk
Asbestos exposure didn’t just affect those on the job. Many shipyard workers unknowingly carried fibers home on their clothing, tools, and gear, causing take-home exposure for spouses and children. This secondary exposure has led to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases in family members who never set foot inside a shipyard.
Legal Options for WV Shipyard Workers
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis after working in a West Virginia shipyard, you may be entitled to compensation. Legal claims can cover:
- Medical expenses and treatment costs
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death benefits for surviving family members
Why Choose an Experienced WV Asbestos Lawyer
Handling WV shipyard asbestos exposure claims requires deep knowledge of the state’s job sites, work practices, and corporate defendants. Attorney Lee W. Davis has decades of experience with asbestos litigation, including shipyard-related cases, and understands how to connect your diagnosis to specific exposures.
📞 Call the Law Offices of Lee W. Davis today at 412-781-0525 or complete our online contact form for a free case evaluation.
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