Orange Shipbuilding is one of many Texas-based shipbuilders. The facility was established in 1974 in Orange, Texas, roughly 37 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The shipyard sits on approximately 12 acres of land and consists of half a dozen construction bays, 150 feet of steel bulkhead, 14 overhead cranes and one slip. The yard is filled with elaborate building equipment such as welding machines, rolling cranes, a wheelabrator machine and a marine railway.

Before the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) of 1977, asbestos was widely used in shipyards, construction and other industries around the world. In the early 1900s, asbestos use became extensive in boilers, furnaces, pipes, insulation and fireproofing on ships. In fact, the United States Navy made asbestos mandatory in all new submarines beginning in 1922 due to its heat-resistant properties and strength.

Asbestos Exposure at Orange Shipbuilding

The handling of asbestos materials was strictly regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) beginning in the mid-1970s. By this time, most companies had already begun taking precautions. The law states that levels exceeding 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter (f/cc) of air, averaged over an eight-hour work shift, is prohibited. In cases where exceeding the legal limit is necessary, protective clothing and other safety equipment is required.

While Orange Shipbuilding was not as likely as other shipyards to build ships that contained asbestos (because it opened in the mid-1970s when regulations were being implemented), it repaired and stored many older ships that contained parts composed of asbestos. Some of the asbestos-contaminated products used in shipyards included insulation, pipe wrapping, boiler products, engine products, gaskets and more. On a finished ship, asbestos spray insulation could even be found in mess halls and sleeping quarters.

During the repair process, it is likely that asbestos fibers were released into the air. Protective gear and other safeguards were not too common before the 1980s to protect workers against exposure, but accidents can still presently take place when repairing older vessels.

Exposure to asbestos during repairs can occur when asbestos fibers become airborne. Once airborne, the fibers can be inhaled and later lodged in the protective lining of organs. Removing protective gear while working with asbestos, even for a moment, can lead to exposure. Asbestos fibers cling to clothing as well. If clothing is not disposed of properly, the fibers can be inhaled by anyone standing within a few feet. If this protective clothing is brought home, family members may be unknowingly exposed.

Resources for Orange Shipbuilding Workers

While there are several types of asbestos, any form of asbestos can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, heart and abdomen. The occurrence of asbestos exposure can lead to asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung cancer. Although there are no immediate symptoms following asbestos exposure, an asbestos-related disease can take between 10 and 50 years to arise.

If you were exposed to asbestos in 1960, for example, the first signs may not appear until 1980 or as late as 2010. The most common symptom of mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease that affects the lungs is shortness of breath. Coughing that produces mucus or blood is another common symptom. Other symptoms include chest pain, fever, swelling in the abdomen and wheezing. It is very important to be aware of all symptoms associated with asbestos-related illnesses. Early detection is key as these conditions are difficult to treat. While there is no cure, effective treatments have been implemented to prolong life expectancy and improve symptoms.

If you worked at Orange Shipbuilding and suspect that you may have been exposed to asbestos, make an appointment to see your doctor. Regular exams can help monitor and treat the signs of asbestos-related disease. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-caused condition, our Doctor Match Program can help pair you with a specialist in your area. If you would like additional support resources, you can submit a request by filling out this form or speak with a Patient and Family Advocate by calling (800) 615-2270.

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