Ellicott International

Like shipbuilding, dredging has been an important part of marine industry since the early 1900s. Ellicott International is a company that has been supplying dredging machinery since its inception in 1885. Its main functions revolve around manufacturing power transmission components and other forms of dredge machinery. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Ellicott International has many years experience in developing and implementing dredges for different kinds of industrial environments. With its growing success in the United States, Ellicott International has been able to expand its horizons to other countries across the globe that have a need for dredging. Over 1,000 dredges have been created for over 70 countries throughout the world.

One of Ellicott International's many accomplishments is its involvement in the United States Armed Forces. The company took part in supplying the military with the machinery and other tools they needed for dredging projects. Ellicott International is also known for its many patented designs for efforts in creating maneuverability within different narrow waterways. Many of the company's accomplishments are in large part to technical designs that are created for different clients and industries. Its success has grown so elaborately throughout the years that the company was given the Export Achievement Award in 2006 by the United States Commerce Department.

Dredging equipment, much like shipyard material, was contaminated with many toxic materials such as asbestos. Workers in these industries had little protection against the contamination which resulted in the inhalation of these dangerous microscopic fibers. Little or no precautions were taken to supply the workers with proper gear or breathing devices. There were even chances of these employees bringing back the loose fibers on their clothing and hair to their loved ones at home causing secondary exposure to familes and pets.

Through the many years of service in dredging industry, many individuals are contracting diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Both diseases affect the lining that surrounds the lungs causing breathing complications and chest pains. Some individuals do not know that they have been contaminated with the material and look at these symptoms as signs of other ailments. Having proper testing done by a doctor is the only way to rule out mesothelioma and other lung- related illnesses. The quicker the diagnosis takes place, the more time the patient has to become familiar with the different forms of treatment and medication. This, in turn, allows for a prolonged life and ability to fight the disease.

Last modified: December 09 2009.