Norfolk Naval Shipyard

History of Norfolk Naval Shipyard and Asbestos

Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, heavily used asbestos products for shipbuilding, repairs and maintenance from the 1930s through the early 1980s. Even as asbestos use was phased out, military personnel and civilian workers still encountered legacy asbestos materials present in older ships. Extensive asbestos use put shipyard workers at higher risk for mesothelioma cancer.

Established in 1767, Norfolk Naval Shipyard is the oldest operating shipyard in the United States. The yard began using asbestos as it played a major role in preparing for World War II. Between 1940 and 1945, approximately 6,850 Navy ships were repaired, and more than 100 new vessels were built at the shipyard using asbestos products. 

Workers handled asbestos insulation in boilers, pipes, engine rooms and bulkheads. The toxic mineral was also used in gaskets, adhesives, flooring and protective clothing. Construction, repairs and maintenance could release dangerous fibers into the air, at exceptionally high concentrations in tight workspaces on ships. Studies show shipyard workers have higher rates of mesothelioma as a result. Workers’ families were also at risk of secondary exposure to fibers accidentally brought home on skin, hair and clothing. 

Why Was Asbestos Used at Norfolk Naval Shipyard?

Asbestos was widely used at Norfolk Naval Shipyard because it was strong, heat-resistant and fireproof. It protected ships and crews from fire while being cost-effective. The mineral’s ability to resist corrosion and high temperatures meant it was found in hundreds of products and ship parts.

Because the Navy required its use in nearly every vessel built or repaired at the yard, asbestos became a standard material throughout the shipyard and its support buildings. This widespread use led to long-term exposure risks for anyone working in or around the shipyard, especially before safety regulations were in place.

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Norfolk Naval Shipyard on EPA National Priorities List

Norfolk Naval Shipyard is on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Priorities List because of widespread contamination from asbestos and other industrial waste. Decades of shipyard activity generated large amounts of asbestos waste in local landfills such as Paradise Creek. 

Metal forming, repairs, fabrication, plating and painting produced large amounts of waste, including asbestos fibers, metal scraps, machine oils and chemicals. Before 1979, workers often dumped these materials overboard, onto the ground or into storm drains. This sent pollution straight into the Elizabeth River. 

The long history of asbestos use and careless disposal at the shipyard left a legacy of health risks and environmental contamination. Navy personnel, civilians and the public were all at higher risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

The most recent 5-year review was conducted in August of 2021. According to the EPA, the site has “not yet achieved” sitewide readiness for “anticipated reuse.” Another 5-year review is slated for between August and October 2026.