Asbestos Exposure on Ships:

USS HANCOCK CV 19 AIRCRAFT

The ship named for John Hancock, president of the Second Continental Congress and first governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the USS Hancock, was part of the 24 ship fleet of the Essex class of aircraft carriers. Sponsored by Mrs. Theodore Douglas Robinson, the USS Hancock was built by the Bethlehem Steel Co., Quincy, Mass. Construction on the ship started on the 26th of January 1943, and was completed on the 24th of January the next year. During her active service that started on the 15th of April 1944, the USS Hancock went through several reclassifying periods, until her final decommissioning, on the 30th of January 1976. The USS Hancock received four battle stars for her service in the Second World War, and a Navy Unit Commendation.

The USS Hancock carried jet engine planes and helicopters during her active service and she was also one of the most sophisticated ships in what electronics and warfare equipment are concerned. Here are the ships main characteristics:

  • Essex class aircraft carrier
  • 27100 tons in weight
  • 888 feet in length
  • Propulsion was done using eight boilers and four steam turbines producing in excess of 150000 horse power
  • Maximum speed of 33 knots
  • 3448 crew members served on board, including officers
  • Could carry 100 propeller aircraft or 90 jet engine fighter planes

Asbestos on the USS Hancock has serious consequences

Asbestos was commonly used at the time the USS Hancock was built, due to its’ insulating and fireproofing qualities, and because no one knew that the material was not safe around people. Many former crew members have been accusing health problems and symptoms that could have been associated with asbestos exposure, although no official records have been found to prove this accurate. The USS Hancock was one of the ships that went through an upgrade period that replaced most of the asbestos materials on board.

Have you been exposed to asbestos on the USS Hancock? Contact an attorney!

Potential victims of asbestos found on board the USS Hancock have to know that they are entitled by law to some form of compensation. In order to be able to file a claim, they have to contact a specialized mesothelioma or asbestos attorney and have him or her evaluate their case. Most of the times there is no need for this evaluation because of the clarity of the situation.

Feel free to contact an asbestos professional whenever you need information on any type of asbestos related issue. It is completely free.