Williams Kherkher - Mesothelioma Attorneys

Dangerous Shipyards: Alabama Drydock and Shipping Company

In 1917, four Gulf coast shipping, construction, and repairs companies consolidated to form what is now known as the Alabama Drydock and Shipping Company (ADDSCO). The four companies included Gulf Boiler Works, Alabama Iron Works, Ollinger and Bruce Drydock Company, and Gulf Dry Dock Company. Located in Mobile, Alabama, ADDSCO quickly grew into one of the largest marine manufacturing companies by the mid-1900s.

ADDSCO was briefly used for naval contracts during the First World War, however, it was not until WWII that the shipyard became useful to the war effort. The United States Maritime commission utilized the facility as an emergency shipyard, focusing on naval warship production. During the war, demand became so great that the shipyard grew into one of the largest employers in the South. From 1941-1945, the facility built over one hundred warships.

While the shipyards used in WWII were vital to the success of the US Navy, the many men and women who worked long hours at the shipyards were exposed to dangerous working conditions. Despite the use of dangerous equipment and various harmful substances, the workers continued to complete their jobs, recognizing that their hard labor was helping the war effort. In many cases, the workers were unaware of the true danger of their surroundings. Many workers were exposed to toxic chemicals and substances over the years, as well as harmful asbestos materials.

Asbestos has been a popular building and repair substance for many years, serving as insulation for pipes, electrical fixtures, and more. Banned in the 1970s, Asbestos continues to cause health concerns even today. The effects of asbestos exposure may not appear for decades; however, the illnesses caused by the exposure can be very dangerous. Mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer, is directly caused by asbestos exposure. If you or a loved one worked with asbestos while working on a shipyard, contact a doctor and lawyer immediately. After receiving medical treatment, allow a skilled attorney to inform you of your legal rights.

For more information, contact the Mesothelioma Lawyers of Williams Kherkher by calling 866-950-9000.