Asbestos Risk In Each Branch Of The Military | Shrader Law
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Veterans are a high-risk group for mesothelioma. In fact, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs has acknowledged that a significant number of past service members have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma results from exposure to asbestos. Get informed on asbestos exposure risk in each branch of the military.

Army

The U.S. Army stopped using asbestos products in the 1980s. However, this came too late for service members who were exposed to asbestos before that time.

Virtually all U.S. Army bases were constructed with asbestos-containing materials, often in insulation, plumbing, floor coverings, ceiling tiles, and more. Servicemembers were often instructed to repair parts of the bases’ buildings that contained asbestos and were exposed to significant amounts of asbestos.

Additionally, equipment used in the field, such as military vehicles and protective equipment, contained asbestos.

Navy

Navy veterans are at the highest risk of mesothelioma among service members in all branches of the military. This is because exposure to asbestos occurred virtually everywhere below decks of a Navy ship, including in the following components:

  • Gaskets
  • Valves
  • Adhesives
  • Insulation
  • Floor and pipe coverings

Air Force

The Air Force was not designated a separate branch of the military until 1947. At that time, the military was using asbestos heavily. Asbestos was prevalent in plane parts. As such, pilots and mechanics were continually exposed to the dangerous substance. The aircraft parts most commonly containing asbestos included:

  • Tadpole tapes
  • Fire doors
  • Cabin heating systems
  • Stitching wire

Marine Corps

Like the other branches of the military, the Marine Corps used asbestos generously in buildings and equipment. Marines were also at an increased risk of asbestos exposure even when they were not using Corps equipment. Marines often used Navy vessels as aircraft carriers or as a base for fighter-bombers, and these vessels had asbestos in almost every room.

Suffering from Mesothelioma After Military Service? Contact Us Today

Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis after a lifetime of military service can be devastating. If you are a veteran who is now suffering from mesothelioma, our team is here to help. We have helped countless clients recover the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Call Shrader & Associates L.L.P. at (713) 787-3733 to schedule a free case review.