Gulf Marine Repair Corporation
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is strong, durable and able to withstand considerable temperatures and even fire. These, and other advantageous properties made it one of the most sought after resources in the United States for nearly a century. Use of this mineral became strictly regulated, however, during the 1970's when it was found to be toxic.
One of the most common uses for asbestos was as a base for insulating materials. It helped regulate the temperatures that were produced by large machinery, steam pipes and other equipment. Although insulation was used in most every home, building and office, it was especially prevalent in industrial settings such as shipyards. When this and other products that contained the material were used, small asbestos fibers frequently would break off and float in the atmosphere, allowing for unsuspecting people to breathe them in. Unfortunate victims who inhaled these fibers often endured a variety of illnesses. The more exposure an individual has to asbestos, the more likely they more likely they are to develop an illness, such as a respiratory disorder, asbestosis or even the potentially deadly cancer known as Mesothelioma.
Even though the Gulf Marine Repair Corp. of Tampa Forida was built in 1974 when asbestos was beginning to be recognized as a health hazard, the facility still contained large amounts of the poisonous material. Many of the workers who were employed at the repair yard were subjected to breathing in this hazardous substance while working on the large ships that were brought in for repairs. Tragically most of these people were completely unaware of the risks they faced every time they went to work, and would not know until years later when they began to develop signs of health problems. It often takes many years or even decades for any indications of the maladies that asbestos causes to appear, so thousands of people were allowed to spend a large amount of time around the hazardous materials without ever understanding the danger.
The Gulf Marine Repair Corporation remains active in Florida, and by now all of the products containing asbestos have been removed. Anyone who worked at this site while these goods were in use is urged to notify their doctor for a thorough examination immediately.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
