Consolidated Shipyard
Due to the growing need for ships during World War II, many locations were established to better accommodate the growing demand. Consolidated Shipyard was first opened in 1941 as an emergency crafting station in Wilmington, California. This was not the only jobsite that was owned by the shipyard. In Orange, Texas, the navy gave Consolidated Shipyard a commission to open a new station in 1940. Its primary functions in both locations were to construct different vessels for the needs of the United States Military.
Both of these locations employed many workers. Consolidated Shipyard alone hired over 12,000 employees for different positions. After the war efforts, however, the shipyard location in California ceased operations because of the limited demand for ships in that area. It was only set up as a temporary service for World War II activities. The Texas shipyard remained open after that time but changed its function to the production of steel and other types of materials for the United States.
Many industries that were set up in a quick manner to service the needs of the military often put the health of their employees on the back burner. Consolidated Shipyard may have been an area where asbestos material was used within the ships and around the base. Asbestos is a dangerous material that if inhaled, could cause serious health complications later in life. Many individuals who worked for the two locations of Consolidated Shipyard worked in close quarters and did not have preventative gear for inhaling toxic fibers. Many of those employees are now experiencing illnesses such as mesothelioma cancer that affects the lining that surrounds the lungs.
Those who worked as electricians, pipe insulators, and plumbers should seek medical advice immediately to be tested for lung related diseases. Some of the symptoms for mesothelioma include couching, chest pain, and inability to withstand continuous activity. Some of these symptoms are often related to other types of illnesses, so proper testing is important to rule out other forms of ailments. Doctors and researchers are working together to create the most up-to-date and innovative treatments and medications for this life threatening disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but many individuals are fighting mesothelioma everyday and are experiencing relief due to their treatment plan.
