Known for its ability to withstand fire and high temperatures,
asbestos was – for decades – traditionally used in applications
such as insulation for equipment where excessive heat was
present. It is believed that because of these properties,
asbestos saved many lives. However, it also created myriad
health problems. Individuals who worked on board ships,
particularly those built around World War II, were especially
susceptible to developing asbestos cancer such as mesothelioma.
They used a variety of asbestos-containing products such as rope
packing, which was used as a mechanical packing for equipment
such as pumps, valves, and gaskets. It was also used in the food
industry on equipment including mixers and agitators. The rope
packing was able to withstand very high temperatures and was
thus successful in helping avoid dangerous situations. But while
fires were avoided, unknowing workers who were exposed to
asbestos-containing rope packing faced other dangers. Loose
asbestos fibers from cut or damaged rope