One of the industries that made widespread use of the so-called miracle mineral asbestos was the metal works industry. Traditionally, plants that manufactured steel, aluminum and iron often used asbestos in a variety of ways to help protect against fire and heat, two elements that are ever-present in such facilities. Asbestos insulation was common use in these plants and probably served to save a number of lives from fires. Even asbestos clothing such as pants, aprons, shirts, gloves, shoe covers and masks were worn by workers in these facilities. In addition to clothes, equipment such as furnaces, boilers, generators and pipes were also lined with asbestos.

Though the dangers of asbestos have been known for quite some time, company executives have often defended the toxic mineral and ignored its hazards. Regardless of its ability to protect workers and save lives, the use of asbestos should have never been condoned. As a result of its use, those who have previously worked in aluminum plants, steel mills and iron works are at risk of contracting asbestos-related diseases. Even today, more than 30 years after the U.S. government issued warnings about the use of asbestos, individuals are still being diagnosed with diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.

If you or a loved one has worked for Acme Metals, Alcoa Aluminum, Bath Iron Works, Chicago Heights Steel, LTV Steel, National Steel, Northwestern Steel and Wire, Reynolds Aluminum, or any other metal works factory, it is important to seek the advice of a medical doctor. Routine examinations should be performed to check for the development of a number of asbestos-related diseases.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease, consider contacting an experienced mesothelioma lawyer that can help you attain compensation for medical bills, lost wages and any pain or suffering that may have occurred.

Learn what foods to eat, which to avoid, and the best supplements for the fight against cancer and chemotherapy recovery.

Asbestos.com's Veterans Assistance Department can help you with questions about veterans and asbestos-related illnesses or about potential benefits.

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Search through our extensive list of ships that used asbestos-containing products.
(e.g. USS Alabama BB 60)

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