NORSHIPCO
NORSHIPCO (Norfolk Shipbuilding & Drydock Corporation) acts as a subsidiary to the United States Marine Repair Inc. NORSHIPCO is the nation's largest non-nuclear ship repair, modernization, conversion and overhaul company. NORSHIPCO has serviced nearly every modern country's fleet as a fully integrated repair, modernization, and conversion or all types of vessels. As of 1998, NORSHIPCO employed some 2,200 employees.
Located in the Port of Hampton Roads, NORSHIPCO features a 1000' channel at a controlled depth of 45'. The facility also comprises 110 acres over the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River, bringing total frontage to nearly 5,000'. As the largest and most capable privately-owned shipyard on the East coast, NORSHIPCO has serviced commercial, and more extensively, government projects throughout World War I and II, Korea, Vietnam, and the conflicts within the Gulf and Middle East. NORSHIPCO is consistently ranked as one the nations 100 largest defense contractors by The Government Contractor.
NORSHIPCO continues to stress expansion in not only government contracting but also in the civilian commercial realm. Recent prominent clients include several hospitality industry leaders such as Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruise Lines, and Carnival Cruises. As a growing firm, NORSHIPCO prides itself on the quality of work that they offer and the aptitude of their workers.
Shipyard employees encounter dangerous circumstances both seen and unseen on a daily basis. Among these many dangers is the exposure to toxic carcinogens, particularly those that are frequently found in older vessels. Perhaps the most prevalent of these toxins is asbestos, which has manifested itself in shipyards. As NORSHIPCO's East coast facility deals exclusively within the realm of ship repair, many older vessels have passed through and been processed by the firm. It is possible that during these repairs, employees may have been exposed to dangerous airborne asbestos fibers. At particular risk are those employees who may have performed duties dealing with pipe fitting, boiler liners, drywall, or floor and ceiling installations.
Asbestos fibers, like those found in the construction of older ships and vessels, can be directly attributed to respiratory ailments several years after exposure. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are the most common forms of asbestos-induced respiratory illness. Symptoms can occur long after exposure and sometimes prior exposure is not immediately recognized as the cause of mesothelioma or related illness. It is important that if you or someone you know was employed in this field, regardless of how long ago, that you become tested for asbestos-related health complications. Early detection is very important to aligning treatment and life-management options. If you or a loved one think you may have been exposed to dangerous toxins, it is important that you seek out more information regarding your rights as a victim. Medical, legal, and family support is available to those affected.
