Asbestos Exposure Sites in New Jersey
New Jersey has 3 documented asbestos exposure sites spanning 2 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 New Jersey
New Jersey has one of the highest mesothelioma incidence rates in the nation, a consequence of its dense industrial history and concentration of chemical manufacturing, oil refining, and shipbuilding. The Johns-Manville Corporation, the nation's largest asbestos products manufacturer, operated its flagship plant in Manville, New Jersey for decades, producing asbestos insulation, roofing, and building materials that exposed workers and contaminated the surrounding community. The Newark and Elizabeth industrial corridor contained chemical plants, refineries, and factories that used asbestos products extensively. Shipyards along the Delaware River, including the New York Shipbuilding Corporation in Camden and the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Kearny, built warships and commercial vessels using massive quantities of asbestos. Oil refineries in Linden, Bayway, and along the Arthur Kill waterway used asbestos insulation throughout their operations. Fort Dix, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and the Picatinny Arsenal all contained asbestos in their facilities. The Public Service Electric & Gas Company operated power plants across the state with asbestos insulation. New Jersey's courts have been among the most active asbestos litigation venues in the nation, and the state has developed specialized case management procedures for asbestos cases. The two-year statute of limitations from discovery requires prompt action after diagnosis.
Major industries linked to asbestos exposure in New Jersey: Asbestos manufacturing, Chemical manufacturing, Oil refining, Shipbuilding, Power generation, Military installations.
Notable exposure sites: Johns-Manville Corporation, Manville; New York Shipbuilding Corporation, Camden; Federal Shipbuilding, Kearny; ExxonMobil Bayway Refinery, Linden; Picatinny Arsenal, Morris County.
Frequently Asked Questions: Asbestos Exposure in New Jersey
What is New Jersey's statute of limitations for mesothelioma claims?
New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations from the date of diagnosis or discovery for personal injury claims. Wrongful death claims must also be filed within two years of the date of death.
What was the Johns-Manville plant in Manville?
Johns-Manville operated the nation's largest asbestos products manufacturing facility in Manville, NJ. The plant produced asbestos insulation, roofing, and building materials for decades, exposing thousands of workers and contaminating the surrounding community. The company eventually filed for bankruptcy and established an asbestos trust fund.
Why does New Jersey have so many mesothelioma cases?
New Jersey's dense concentration of chemical plants, oil refineries, shipyards, and manufacturing facilities — combined with the Johns-Manville asbestos factory in Manville — created widespread occupational and environmental asbestos exposure across the state.
Are New Jersey courts experienced with asbestos litigation?
Yes. New Jersey is one of the most active asbestos litigation jurisdictions in the nation. The state has developed specialized case management procedures and its courts have extensive experience handling complex mesothelioma claims.