Naval Station Newport
One of the most important factors that goes into building a shipyard is its location. The United States is home to many areas on the western and eastern coasts that are filled with shipyards. Rhode Island is a location that has been prime in vessel production and repair through the Naval Station at Newport. This naval station has been popular due to its location and is one of the very few that took part in the production of iron steamships for the Civil War. The Naval Station at Newport worked towards producing ships and submarines for both the Northern and Southern soldiers. This marked a time in history that began naval warfare.
World War II essentially set up the Naval Station Newport as a successful operating base. Because of its prime location and popularity during troublesome times, it was known as one of the busiest industries for the production of naval vessels and the storing of ships. On top of the many activities that the naval station took part in, education was one of the most important. It was influencial in its success. Throughout the years, the Naval Station Newport has set up Patrol Torpedo Boat Training Centers, a naval net depot, an aircraft gunnery training center and other facilities around the base that were beneficial to all those interested in becoming part of a naval team. There were even locations on the base where the families and employees could live while working throughout the base. Even today, the Naval Station employs over 160,000 individuals. Its main focus is to not only train but also educate individuals on naval activities.
There were many chances for employment opportunity within many bases of shipbuilding around the United States. Naval Station Newport is a prime example. Here, military and civilian workers became infected by hazardous materials because of improper precautions taken for their health. Asbestos was a product that was used in shipyards across the nation, even at Naval Station Newport. Those who were employed as boiler men, insulators, plumbers, and electricians were very prone to inhaling this dangerous material. Unfortunately, many did not know that they were being exposed to such toxic material and therefore did not wear the proper gear or clothing to protect themselves from becoming contaminated. Today, there are a growing number of cases of asbestos related illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Lung illnesses caused by asbestos are usually not found until many years after exposure. Some individuals experience no side effects or symptoms, and therefore do not know that they may have these deadly diseases. Moreover, the longer the patient waits to be tested, the less likely he or she may respond positively to medication or treatment. If you or a loved one have been an employee at any Naval or Shipbuilding station in the United States, contact a doctor immediately for lung related illness testing. There are medical, legal and emotional resources to help individuals obtain the compensation they deserve for such a devastating illness.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
