Asbestos exposure is rampant in the United States. In Florida, it can be found in buildings, shipyards, automotive manufacturing plants, oil refineries, power plants, among other industries where fire-resistant materials are needed.

Asbestos was regularly shipped to the state for processing and often used in construction. Anyone involved in construction, demolition, or renovation in Florida has likely been exposed.

Nearly all houses in Florida constructed before the 1980s contain asbestos.

Florida is the second leading state in asbestos-related deaths. Hundreds of thousands of Florida residents have died from asbestos-related disease over the last 30 years.

Military Asbestos Exposure

Florida is home to many military bases, especially the Navy and Air Force. Veterans who served in any of the following occupations may have been exposed to asbestos: milling, shipyard work, insulation, demolition, carpentry, and construction. Military bases in Florida include:

  • Homestead Air Reserve Base, Homestead, FL
  • Florida Army National Guard, St. Augustine, FL; Palmetto, FL; Crystal River, FL
  • US Naval Air Reserve, Jacksonville, FL
  • Tyndall Air Force Base, Panama City, FL
  • NAS JAX Base, Jacksonville, FL
  • US Naval Surface Warfare, Hollywood, FL
  • Mayport Base, Jacksonville, FL
  • Patrick Air Force Base, Patrick AFB, FL

The U.S. Air Force used asbestos in planes, radar stations, and bases. Asbestos was used as insulation in aircraft cockpit heat protection, heat shields, valves, gaskets, electrical wiring, and brakes. Aircraft mechanics and pilots are particularly at risk for asbestos exposure.

The U.S. Navy covered their ships with asbestos products because of their fireproofing qualities. Unfortunately, everyone aboard these ships could have been exposed. Some of the most dangerous areas on Navy ships for asbestos exposure were boiler rooms, engine rooms, ammunition storage rooms, mess halls, and sleeping quarters.

Mesothelioma in Florida

According to the American Cancer Society, asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma develops when asbestos fibers are breathed in or ingested. When asbestos fibers enter the body, they can cause inflammation and scarring. This causes DNA cell damage and results in uncontrolled cell growth.

Contact Us Today if You Were Exposed to Asbestos in Florida

If you have been exposed to asbestos, discuss your case with a legal professional by calling us or by filling out the contact form on our website. You may be entitled to compensation. Get in touch with a Florida asbestos exposure lawyer at Brayton Purcell LLP to learn more.