Written By: Camryn Keeble
Asbestos on Navy Oilers
U.S. Navy Oilers are specialized vessels that provide fuel and other essential supplies to other ships in the fleet. These large ships are used to support naval operations by transporting fuel, oil cargo, Fleet freight and other critical supplies to ships that are underway. Unfortunately, oilers were constructed with asbestos, a cancer-causing substance. This has led to many health issues for Navy veterans.
Reviewed By
Retired LCDR Carl Jewett
VA-Accredited Claims Agent
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Reviewed By
Retired LCDR Carl Jewett
VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Hazards of Asbestos on Navy Oilers
Navy oilers, along with other Navy ships, were built to be extremely tough and to withstand strong seas. Shipbuilders required strong and durable materials to construct these powerful vessels.
Unfortunately, one of the primary materials used throughout naval shipbuilding was asbestos, a cancer-causing substance. Asbestos is the only cause of the rare cancer called mesothelioma, and it can also cause lung cancer and other serious health conditions.
Shipbuilders valued asbestos for its durability and heat resistance, which is why it was incorporated into various components throughout oilers. Asbestos can be found in deck tiles, engine rooms, boilers, insulation of piping and electrical wiring, valve packing materials and more.
Due to the mass amounts of asbestos found within Navy ships and throughout other military branches, military asbestos exposure is common.
If you are a Navy veteran who served on one of these ships, you may have been exposed to asbestos on your oiler. Contact our VA-Accredited Claims Agent, retired LCDR Carl Jewett, to find out more information or for assistance filing your VA claim.
More About Navy Oilers
U.S. Navy oilers are auxiliary vessels designed to provide fuel and supplies to Navy ships during peacetime and wartime operations. These replenishment ships play a crucial role in enabling the Navy to maintain a global presence and project power over vast distances, ensuring the fleet can operate efficiently and effectively far from home.
One of the primary functions of U.S. Navy oilers is to refuel naval vessels while at sea, a process known as underway replenishment (UNREP). This capability allows ships to extend their operational range without having to return to port, enabling the Navy to maintain a persistent presence in strategically important regions and respond rapidly to emerging threats. This logistical support ensures that the fleet can remain mission-ready and sustain its operations for extended periods.
Sources & Author
- USS Jason (AR-8) underway in 1993. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37690554. Accessed: 09/05/2023.
AI Summary of Asbestos on Navy Oilers
Navy oilers are vital vessels that supply fuel and essential supplies to other ships within the fleet, ensuring their operational readiness at sea. These large and sturdy ships support naval missions by transporting crucial resources like fuel, oil, and freight, often for extended periods away from port. Due to their importance, Navy oilers were built with durable materials that could withstand harsh marine conditions. However, during construction, asbestos was widely used throughout these ships because of its heat resistance and strength. This material was incorporated into various components including insulation, piping, boilers, electrical wiring, and deck tiles, making exposure to asbestos a common risk for those who served onboard.
Asbestos is a dangerous material because it is the only known cause of mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and other areas. It can also lead to other serious health issues, such as lung cancer and respiratory diseases. For Navy veterans who served on oilers or other ships containing asbestos, the risk of exposure remains a significant concern. Many veterans find themselves facing health challenges years after their service, often as a result of inhaling asbestos fibers during their time aboard naval vessels. Recognizing this risk, knowledgeable professionals and veteran support services are available to help those affected understand their options and access benefits.
If you are a Navy veteran who served on a Navy oiler or similar ships, you may be eligible for VA benefits related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. Assistance is available to help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing claims. It is important to seek support from VA-accredited representatives who are experienced in handling cases involving military asbestos exposure. These experts can answer questions, provide guidance, and help you obtain the benefits you deserve, often at no cost to you. Protecting your health and securing your benefits is a priority for those who served our country, and understanding the risks associated with asbestos exposure can be an important step towards that goal.