Long Beach Naval Shipyard Asbestos Exposure
At Risk Occupations
Long Beach Naval Shipyard Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Claims
Long Beach Naval Shipyard Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Claims
The Long Beach Naval Shipyard operated from 1943 to 1997 and exposed thousands of military personnel and civilian workers to dangerous levels of asbestos.
A comprehensive study found that 16% of workers (1,061 out of 6,640) showed asbestos-related abnormal chest X-rays, with risk increasing by years of service and age.
Workers with 22-26 years of service showed 37% positive findings. The facility’s peak employment reached over 16,000 workers during World War II.
Veterans and former Long Beach workers can pursue substantial compensation with SWMW Law’s asbestos litigation team, which has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against the very manufacturers whose products damaged Navy personnel.
Historical Background of Asbestos Use at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard
Operations and Timeline
The Long Beach Naval Complex included both the Long Beach Naval Station and the adjacent Long Beach Naval Shipyard, located on Terminal Island between Long Beach and San Pedro, California.
The U.S. Navy purchased 104 acres of oceanfront for $1 in 1940 from the City of Long Beach, with operations beginning in 1943 during World War II.
The facility served as the West Coast home port for Pacific Fleet battleships and their support ships. By 1945, civilian employment peaked at 16,091 workers. The shipyard performed routine and battle-damage repairs to naval ships, with over 300 major repairs completed between 1943 and 1945.
After brief closure in 1950, the shipyard was reactivated in 1951 for the Korean War and continued operations through the Vietnam War. From 1965 to 1970, 140 ships and 40,000 personnel were homeported at Long Beach.
The facility finally closed in 1997 under the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act.
Extensive Asbestos Use at the Facility
Long Beach Naval Shipyard made heavy use of asbestos throughout its operations from the 1940s through the 1970s. The Navy valued asbestos for its strength, insulating properties, and ability to withstand heat and flame, making it integral to military construction and shipbuilding.
Asbestos was used extensively in:
Boilers, furnaces, and machinery gaskets, pipes, and valves
Ship fireproofing and insulation
Construction materials for Navy barracks and structures
Spray-on asbestos applications throughout vessels
Hull construction and mechanical parts of ships
The mineral’s dangers were unknown to military personnel during construction and operation, though the Navy valued it specifically because ships required materials that could withstand extreme heat and marine conditions.
Common Job Duties That Led to Asbestos Exposure
High-Risk Occupations and Time Periods
Workers at Long Beach Naval Shipyard were exposed to asbestos from the facility’s opening in 1943 through its closure in 1997, with peak exposure occurring from the 1940s through the 1970s.
Navy occupations with highest asbestos exposure levels included:
- Insulators and boiler workers
- Pipefitters and repair/maintenance workers
- Laborers and construction workers
- Machinists and welders
- Electricians and shipyard workers
- See all of the highest-risk MOS codes
Specific exposure activities involved:
- Installing, removing, cutting, and disturbing asbestos insulation
- Working in 17 workshop areas performing conversion, repair, and overhaul work
- Removing and installing pump packing material, valves, brakes, and gaskets
- Sandblasting, machining, maintenance work with boilers
- Working with spray-on asbestos applications
Production vs. Non-Production Workers
The 1979 radiographic study found significant differences in exposure levels:
- Production workers: 74.5% of asbestos-positive chest films, representing 11.8% of positive findings among all studied workers
- Non-production workers: Only 4.1% of positive findings among the total population studied
Workers who handled asbestos-contaminated materials were at particular risk, but anybody involved in repair or maintenance around the base could have been exposed to airborne asbestos fibers.
Job Titles & Dates Impacted
Pipefitters and insulators
1940s‑late 1970s (some repairs continued into 1980s).
Cut, fitted and repaired asbestos‑covered pipes, boilers and turbines; often removed old insulation during overhauls. Studies cited by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health report that removal operations at LBNS measured 40–150 f/cc.
Boilermakers and machinists
1950s‑1980s (Carpenter case demonstrates exposures through mid‑1980s).
Rebuilt and maintained ship boilers, pumps and valves. A federal court case involving decedent John Carpenter, who worked as a marine machinist at LBNS from 1973 to 1984, described co‑workers witnessing him repack or replace valves and gaskets with asbestos‑containing packing.
Welders and shipfitters
1960s‑1980s; exposures documented through removal projects.
Welded hulls, cut asbestos‑insulated steel and used fire blankets containing asbestos. A 2025 news report about Collie Washington Jr., a former civilian welder, notes he handled “asbestos‑contaminated materials” at LBNS and later developed lung cancer.
Electricians and insulator helpers
1940s‑1980s.
Installed or repaired wiring and insulation in engine rooms; often worked alongside pipefitters without protective equipment, leading to bystander exposure.
Engine mechanics and plumbers
1960s‑1990s (shipyard closed 1997).
Maintained pumps, blowers and plumbing systems. Veterans’ testimony in a 2019 VA Board decision describes post‑service work as a marine machinist removing pumps and blowers at LBNS and acknowledging asbestos presence.
Comprehensive Health Study Results
A landmark 1979 radiographic study conducted by Dr. Jean S. Felton examined 6,640 Long Beach Naval Shipyard employees, representing 88.6% of the total shipyard population.
The study’s key findings included:
Overall Exposure Impact:
- 1,061 workers (16.0%) showed abnormal chest X-ray findings consistent with asbestos fiber inhalation
- 4,806 workers (72.4%) showed no changes
- 140 workers (2.1%) showed pulmonary fibrosis
- 624 workers (9.4%) had other abnormalities not related to asbestos
Gender Disparities:
- 17.2% of male employees showed positive asbestos-related changes
- Only 0.8% (4 women) of 402 female employees showed comparable findings
Age-Related Risk Progression:
- Workers aged 25-29: 1.3% positive findings
- Workers aged 65 and over: 38.2% positive findings
- Clear linear relationship between age and asbestos-related abnormalities
Years of Service Correlation:
- Workers with 2-6 years of service: 12.4% positive findings
- Workers with 22-26 years of service: 37.0% positive chest film findings
- Linear relationship between length of service and disease development
Long-Term Health Consequences
Recent research indicates that Long Beach Naval Shipyard employment significantly increased workers’ risk for a wide variety of cancers, including asbestos-related malignancies. Veterans and workers face ongoing health risks decades after exposure, as mesothelioma and other asbestos diseases typically develop 20-50 years after initial exposure.
Common asbestos-related diseases among shipyard workers include:
- Malignant mesothelioma (cancer of organ linings)
- Asbestos lung cancer
- Asbestosis (lung scarring disease)
- Pleural plaques and other respiratory conditions
Studies show that shipyard workers die from asbestos diseases 16 times more often than people in other jobs. The Environmental Working Group has projected approximately 40,000 veteran casualties due to asbestos-related diseases, with Navy veterans comprising the largest affected group.
Notable Lawsuits, Verdicts, and Settlements
Significant Legal Cases
Several high-profile cases have emerged from Long Beach Naval Shipyard asbestos exposure:
Many asbestos manufacturers have established bankruptcy trust funds containing over $30 billion for victim compensation.
Long Beach Naval Shipyard workers may be eligible to file claims with multiple trust funds, as the facility used products from numerous manufacturers including Johns Manville, Owens Corning/Fireboard Corp., and W.R. Grace & Co.
California State Law Requirements
Personal Injury Claims:
California Civil Code §340.2 establishes a unique statute of limitations for asbestos-related personal injury claims:
- One year from the date of diagnosis, OR
- One year from when the victim knew or reasonably should have known through reasonable diligence that the disability was caused by asbestos exposure
- “Disability” is defined as losing time from work to the extent that it affects ability to perform regular occupation
Wrongful Death Claims:
For wrongful death claims in California:
- One year from the date of death, OR
- One year from when family members first knew or should have known through reasonable diligence that the death was caused by asbestos exposure
Jones Act Claims:
For maritime workers who qualify as “seamen” under the Jones Act:
- Three years from the date of injury or qualifying event (46 U.S.C. § 30106)
- Exception for occupational diseases: Three years from date symptoms were discovered, not from initial exposure
- Applies to workers who spent 30% or more of their time on vessels “in navigation”
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA):
- Three years from the accident that caused injury or illness
- May be extended if good reason for delay is proven
Critical Timing Considerations
California’s one-year statute of limitations is among the shortest in the nation. Most other states allow 2-6 years for mesothelioma claims. The short timeframe makes immediate legal consultation essential after diagnosis.
Key factors affecting filing deadlines:
- Discovery rule may extend deadlines if exposure source was unknown
- Multiple exposure sites may allow filing in different jurisdictions
- Federal vs. state law may apply depending on employment status
- Trust fund claims may have separate deadlines from lawsuits
Step-by-Step Filing Process for Asbestos Claims
Phase 1: Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
Step 1: Contact Specialized Attorney
- Schedule a free case review with our experienced mesothelioma attorneys
- Discuss diagnosis, prognosis, and exposure history
- Bring medical records and any employment documentation
Step 2: Legal Assessment
- Attorney evaluates case merits and potential defendants
- Determines applicable statutes of limitations
- Identifies best jurisdiction for filing
Phase 2: Investigation and Documentation
Step 3: Gather Evidence
- Collect comprehensive medical records showing asbestos-related disease
- Document detailed employment history at Long Beach Naval Shipyard
- Obtain military service records and ship assignments
- Research specific asbestos products used during employment period
Step 4: Product Identification
- Identify manufacturers of asbestos-containing products
- Utilize naval archives and equipment records
- Interview former coworkers and shipmates
- Cross-reference with asbestos product databases
Phase 3: Legal Filing and Discovery
Step 5: File Claims
- File personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in appropriate court
- Submit claims to relevant asbestos trust funds
- Ensure compliance with all statutory deadlines
Step 6: Discovery Process
- Exchange evidence with defendants
- Participate in depositions (video testimony)
- Provide detailed testimony about exposure circumstances
- Review corporate documents and safety records
Phase 4: Resolution
Step 7: Settlement Negotiations
- Most cases (90%+) settle before trial
- Negotiations typically take weeks to months
- Multiple defendants may settle at different times
Step 8: Trial or Final Settlement
- If settlement unsuccessful, proceed to trial
- Jury selection, evidence presentation, verdict
- Appeals process may delay final compensation
Unique Challenges in Long Beach Naval Shipyard Cases
Complex Product Identification:
Long Beach Naval Shipyard cases require extensive investigation to identify specific asbestos products used during different time periods. As experienced mesothelioma attorneys we maintain detailed databases of naval equipment, ship blueprints, and manufacturer records spanning decades of shipyard operations.
Multiple Defendant Litigation:
These cases typically involve numerous defendants, as the shipyard used products from dozens of asbestos manufacturers. We have established relationships and litigation history with major asbestos companies, improving settlement negotiations.
Federal vs. State Law Complexity:
Long Beach Naval Shipyard cases may involve federal maritime law (Jones Act), state personal injury law, military contractor defenses, and government immunity issues.
SWMW Law is equipped to navigate and streamline federal and California maritime venues for Long Beach Naval personnel.
Resources Required for Success
Extensive Evidence Databases:
We maintain warehouses of asbestos evidence, including:
- Naval archives and ship construction records
- Product identification databases spanning 70+ years
- Corporate documents showing knowledge of asbestos dangers
- Medical expert networks and specialized pathologists
Financial Resources for Litigation:
Asbestos cases require significant upfront investment in investigation, expert witnesses, and litigation costs. Established firms can advance these expenses while working on contingency fee arrangements.
Track Record with Asbestos Companies:
Experienced firms have litigation history with major asbestos defendants, creating leverage in settlement negotiations. Companies are more likely to offer reasonable settlements to avoid facing firms with proven trial success.
Specialized Knowledge Areas
Military Service Documentation:
Long Beach Naval Shipyard mesothelioma lawyers understand military records systems, ship assignments, and how to locate former shipmates through muster rolls and reunion committees.
Naval Construction Standards:
These cases require understanding of naval construction practices, equipment specifications, and how asbestos was integrated into ship systems during different historical periods.
Dual Benefit Coordination:
Specialized attorneys help veterans coordinate VA disability benefits with legal settlements, ensuring maximum compensation without benefit conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I was exposed to asbestos at Long Beach Naval Shipyard?
If you worked at Long Beach Naval Shipyard between 1943 and 1997, you were likely exposed to asbestos. The facility used extensive asbestos-containing materials in shipbuilding, maintenance, and construction.
Even workers who didn’t directly handle asbestos could have been exposed, as asbestos fibers traveled throughout the workplace. A comprehensive study found that 16% of all shipyard workers showed signs of asbestos exposure on chest X-rays.
What symptoms should I watch for if I worked at the shipyard?
Asbestos-related diseases typically develop 20-50 years after exposure. Common symptoms include persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Mesothelioma symptoms may also include abdominal pain and swelling. If you have any of these symptoms and worked at Long Beach Naval Shipyard, see a doctor immediately and mention your potential asbestos exposure.
Can I file a Long Beach Naval Shipyard asbestos lawsuit even if I can't remember specific exposure details?
Yes. Experienced Long Beach Naval Shipyard asbestos attorneys can help reconstruct your exposure history through detailed interviews, military records, ship blueprints, and coworker testimony.
Many successful cases involve workers who initially couldn’t recall specific exposure circumstances. Attorneys maintain extensive databases of products used at the facility during different time periods.
How much time do I have to file a Long Beach Naval Shipyard mesothelioma lawsuit?
In California, you have only one year from your mesothelioma diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is one of the shortest deadlines in the nation. For wrongful death cases, families have one year from the date of death.
Federal maritime workers may have different deadlines under the Jones Act (three years).
Call SWMW Law at (855) 744-1922 or submit our confidential intake form today to protect your one-year California deadline.
What compensation is available for Long Beach Naval Shipyard asbestos exposure?
Financial compensation for Long Beach Naval Shipyard workers who worked with, around, and were exposed to asbestos can be pursued against manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers of asbestos-containing products, as well as against contractors and installers, whose products and services were used at the shipyard and aboard ships.
Compensation can be pursued against these companies through a lawsuit, as well as through asbestos trust fund claims against those companies that are bankrupt.
Will filing a Long Beach Naval Shipyard asbestos lawsuit affect my VA benefits?
No. Filing a lawsuit against asbestos manufacturers does not affect VA disability benefits. You are not suing the government or military, you are suing private companies that supplied dangerous products to the Navy. Many veterans successfully receive both VA benefits and legal compensation simultaneously.
How do I choose the right Long Beach Naval Shipyard mesothelioma attorney?
Look for law firms, like ours, with:
- Specific experience with naval shipyard asbestos cases
- Extensive databases of Long Beach Naval Shipyard records and products
- Proven track record of settlements and verdicts against asbestos companies
- Resources to advance litigation costs on contingency fee basis
- Understanding of both civilian and military exposure scenarios
- Ability to coordinate VA benefits with legal claims
SWMW Law never charges upfront. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we secure compensation.
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Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (855) 744-1922.