Asbestos Exposure on Ships:

USS HOUSTON CA 30 CRUISER

What should have been the CL 30 has been reassigned as the USS Houston CA 30, a Northampton class heavy cruiser. Sponsored by Elizabeth Holcombe (daughter of Oscar Holcombe, then-mayor of Houston, Texas), the USS Houston was built by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Newport News, Virginia. The ship was laid down on the 1st of May 1928. Work on the USS Houston was completed on the 7th of September 1929. Lead by Captain Jesse Bishop Gay, the USS Houston was sent to active service on the 17th of June 1930. USS Houston was the flagship of the Asiatic Fleet, and received the Presidential Unit Citation in addition to the two battle stars received for her efforts. USS Houston completed her service when she was sunk in the Battle of Sunda Strait on the 1st of March 1942.

Here is some general data about the asbestos cruiser:

  • Northampton class cruiser
  • 9050 tons in weight
  • 600 feet in length
  • Propulsion provided by steam turbines producing over 105000 horse power
  • Maximum of around 33 knots
  • A maximum of 1155 people served on board the ship
  • The USS Houston could carry a maximum of four aircraft

Asbestos on the USS Houston has serious consequences

As far as problems on United States Navy ships go, asbestos exposure was one of the most important of them all. Even so and because of the ship was built prior to the banning of asbestos, crew members and repair crews were facing a high risk of asbestos contamination, which we know today, can cause lethal conditions, such as asbestosis or mesothelioma. This is why doctors and experts in the field call these ships “asbestos cruisers”.

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

Similar to other working environment wrongful deaths or infections, asbestos exposure is subjected to recent laws passed to support victims. Former crew members of the USS Houston should see a specialized lawyer for detailed information. There is one very large advantage in following legal actions, that of being able to pay for a very expensive treatment period. Do not worry about legal bills, because the lawyer will only ask for payment after the trial is finished and only if the jury has decided in your favor. By this, we recommend to think about this option.

Contact an asbestos specialist whatever question you need answered. It is completely free.