Why Mesothelioma Cases Occur in Indianapolis
Indianapolis's asbestos legacy stems from its role as a major manufacturing center. Rolls-Royce (formerly Allison Engine Company) has manufactured jet engines and gas turbines in Indianapolis since the 1930s. Asbestos was used extensively in engine components, manufacturing facilities, and building insulation throughout the massive complex.
Indianapolis Power & Light (IPL) operated generating stations where asbestos was standard in boiler insulation, turbine casings, and steam systems. Eli Lilly and Company, headquartered in Indianapolis, used asbestos in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, laboratories, and building insulation during decades of campus expansion.
The 20-to-50-Year Latency Period
Mesothelioma has a latency period of 20 to 50 years. A worker exposed to asbestos at Indianapolis facilities in the 1970s may only receive a mesothelioma diagnosis in 2025 or later. This is why Indianapolis continues to produce new mesothelioma cases decades after asbestos use was restricted.
The GM Stamping Plant and Carrier Corporation (HVAC) used asbestos in manufacturing operations, equipment insulation, and building materials. The Naval Ordnance Station Indianapolis (now closed) used asbestos in weapons manufacturing, building construction, and maintenance operations.
Indianapolis's growth as a major commercial and industrial center created additional asbestos exposure through construction, renovation, and the city's extensive manufacturing sector, where asbestos was present in virtually every factory and industrial facility.
Indianapolis's Asbestos Legacy by the Numbers
Rolls-Royce employs thousands in Indianapolis and is one of the world's largest jet engine manufacturers. IPL serves over 500,000 customers. Eli Lilly is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. Indiana allows 2 years from diagnosis to file a mesothelioma claim. Documenting your asbestos exposure history is a critical first step.

