Asbestos Exposure Sites in Florida
Florida has 6 documented asbestos exposure sites spanning 3 industries. Workers at these facilities were exposed to asbestos-containing materials — often in shipyards, power plants, refineries, and manufacturing plants — and may be eligible for compensation through trust fund claims and lawsuits.
Asbestos Exposure in Florida
Florida's mesothelioma cases are driven by its extensive military presence, shipbuilding industry, phosphate mining operations, and the large number of retirees who move to the state after being exposed to asbestos elsewhere. The Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Naval Station Mayport, Naval Air Station Pensacola, and the Pensacola Naval Shipyard all used asbestos heavily in ship construction, repair, and facility maintenance. Tampa's shipyards and the Port of Tampa handled significant maritime activity involving asbestos-laden vessels. Florida's phosphate mining industry in Polk County, the largest in the United States, used asbestos-containing equipment in processing plants. The Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral used asbestos in launch facilities and the aerospace infrastructure that supported the space program. Power plants operated by Florida Power & Light, Duke Energy, and Tampa Electric used asbestos insulation extensively. Florida's rapid residential and commercial development from the 1950s through the 1970s meant widespread use of asbestos in construction materials including floor tiles, roofing, insulation, and cement products. The state's four-year statute of limitations for personal injury from the date of discovery is more generous than most states, but wrongful death claims have only a two-year window. Florida's large veteran population makes it particularly important for military-related asbestos exposure claims.
Major industries linked to asbestos exposure in Florida: Shipbuilding and repair, Military installations, Phosphate mining, Aerospace, Power generation, Construction.
Notable exposure sites: Jacksonville Naval Air Station; Pensacola Naval Shipyard; Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral; IMC Phosphate Mines, Polk County; Tampa Shipbuilding Company.
Power Plants
Manufacturing
Military
Frequently Asked Questions: Asbestos Exposure in Florida
What is Florida's statute of limitations for mesothelioma claims?
Florida allows four years from the date of diagnosis or discovery to file a personal injury claim for mesothelioma. Wrongful death claims have a shorter two-year deadline from the date of death.
Where did asbestos exposure occur in Florida?
Major exposure sites include naval installations in Jacksonville and Pensacola, Tampa-area shipyards, phosphate mining operations in Polk County, Kennedy Space Center, power plants throughout the state, and construction projects during Florida's rapid growth decades.
I was exposed to asbestos in another state but now live in Florida. Can I file here?
You may be able to file in Florida depending on where the responsible companies do business. However, filing in the state where exposure occurred or where the defendant is headquartered may sometimes be more advantageous. A mesothelioma attorney can advise on the best jurisdiction.
Are Florida veterans eligible for mesothelioma compensation?
Yes. Veterans living in Florida who were exposed to asbestos during military service can file claims against asbestos product manufacturers and may also qualify for VA disability benefits. Florida's large veteran population means many local resources are available.