Houston, TX 2/19/2009 6:41:50 AM
Merchant Marines and Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos poses a hazard because it was commoly used on ships
MesotheliomaWeb.org would like to announce a new section on asbestos exposure and the United States Merchant Marines. This invaluable part of our industry and military has served our country for centuries but after decades of asbestos use in ship construction, many members of the marines are developing mesothelioma.
The origins of the Merchant Marines can be traced back to the Revolutionary War. During this time, the United States government gave civilian ships and privateers the authority to transport goods and interfere with enemy shipping operations on international waters on its behalf.
The War of 1812 came about as a result of England and France's seizure of 1500 American merchant ships and impressment of their crews in an attempt to influence American allegiance by interfering with commerce.
During the Civil Wars, the Union enlisted the services of over 600 merchant vessels to transport goods and enforce naval blockades against the Confederacy.
The Merchant Marines played important roles in both World Wars. Unfortunately, it would suffer the worst losses during World War II, resulting in the lost lives of thousands of Merchant Mariners. Estimated numbers range from 5,662 to 8,421 depending on the source.
The Merchant Marines also contributed greatly during the Korean and Vietnam wars and still do today. Currently, they are involved in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Asbestos was a common component in merchant ships parts such as pipes, cabling, floor/ceiling panels and engine room equipment. The mineral was used for fireproofing and insulation purposes, and large ships can contain between 500 and 1,000 tons of asbestos.
Asbestos that was applied as a spray coating on equipment would become friable (easily crumpled) during normal ship operations, which is a health risk to crew members. Members most vulnerable to exposure include electricians, engineers, machinists and pipe fitters.
Because of the long latency period of asbestos, many former Merchant Mariners are only now feeling the health effects, which includes the fatal cancer, mesothelioma.
For more information, you can request a free informational packet from its website. To speak with a Mesothelioma Web coordinator directly, call 1-877-367-6376.
