Professionals who work in the shipbreaking industry face a variety of occupational hazards. The threat of asbestos exposure, however, may be a threat that many do not consider. This is a cause for concern, as asbestos has been conclusively linked to the eventual development of mesothelioma , a deadly cancer that attacks the pleural lining of the lungs. Mesothelioma has no known cure and a survival rate of less than 1%.

Asbestos is very prevalent in shipyards across the world, as the majority of large ships were constructed using asbestos-containing materials. These materials include asbestos that was extensively used to insulate electrical piping, boilers, and incinerators on ships. In addition, some floor and ceiling tiles also contained asbestos, as did plaster, tape, and fiberglass.

When these asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, as they are during the shipbreaking process, the extremely tiny asbestos fibers may become airborne, putting shipbreaking workers at great risk of inhalation. These tiny fibers have a claw-like structure, allowing them to lodge inside the lining of the lungs for up to fifty years. This is precisely why it is important for shipbreaking workers must adhere to proper safety regulations, which include proper ventilation in all work areas. Workers should also wear masks or other breathing apparatuses to avoid inhalation, and it is also recommended that workers wear protective eyewear and other disposable clothing, such as gloves. Workers must also be aware of the appropriate asbestos removal and disposal guidelines.

Because asbestos may lie dormant inside an individual's lungs for decades, the effects of asbestos exposure may not be apparent for many years. Medical studies state that almost 90% of workers who were employed in ship-related industries will ultimately suffer from diseases that are conclusively linked to prior asbestos exposure.

The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is the web's foremost resource for information related to shipyard asbestos exposure, mesothelioma, mesothelioma treatment options, and more. For additional information, please visit the MAA Center website.