If the dangers of asbestos have been known about for so many years, then why was it ubiquitous in military products and equipment?
Efficient performance and productivity was of great importance to the Army, the Marines, the Air Force and the Navy. This was especially the case when two of the world’s most infamous wars were taking place: World War II and The Vietnam War. In order to meet performance demands, it was necessary to have access to a special material that could withstand immense heat and be used for multiple purposes.
Asbestos was perhaps the only material available that could meet these standards. Unfortunately, versatility aside, it was highly toxic, a fact that wasn’t given much consideration.
Asbestos was used in the construction of the following:
Airplanes: Asbestos was used around the engines, fuel tanks and lighting sockets among other plane parts.
Marine Vessels: From battleships to submarines, cruisers to destroyers, asbestos was everywhere. Some veterans who are currently living with mesothelioma, asbestos lung cancer and asbestosis have shared stories about how asbestos covered pipes and boilers that were in or around where they slept would easily flake, sending bits of asbestos into the air.
Military Bases: Even military personnel who weren’t serving on military ships or vessels, asbestos exposure was more or less a guarantee. The carcinogen was found in duct work, water pipes, ceiling and floor tiles, dining areas and even sleeping quarters.
No comments:
Post a Comment