Asbestos Exposure in the U.S. Military | Mesothelioma Hope

The military used a large number of products that contained asbestos. Unfortunately, it did not always know which products purchased from various manufacturers contained asbestos, or how dangerous asbestos actually was. Much of that lack of knowledge stemmed from manufacturers failing to disclose what they were learning about the risks. These companies assured the military that their products were safe, protective, and even “miracle” materials designed to keep people safe—claims that ultimately proved untrue.

Navy vessels, for example, relied heavily on asbestos for insulation, soundproofing, and fireproofing throughout most ships produced from the 1930s into the 1980s. Aircraft used by all branches of the military also contained asbestos in heat shields and insulation. Mechanics across different branches were frequently exposed through the products they worked with, especially brake linings. In many cases, the vehicles themselves were contaminated with asbestos or made with asbestos because of its insulating and fire-resistant properties.

Another major source of exposure for veterans was military buildings constructed between the 1930s and the 1980s. These buildings commonly contained asbestos in insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing materials. People involved in constructing these buildings—and sometimes even those who simply lived or worked in them—could have been exposed when asbestos fibers broke apart and were released into the air. As a result, many individuals were affected under these circumstances as well.