What industrial sites in New York City used asbestos?

Major New York City asbestos exposure sites include the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison power plants (including Ravenswood and Arthur Kill), the World Trade Center complex, NYC subway system infrastructure, public school buildings, residential high-rises, and countless commercial construction projects. Asbestos was used extensively in fireproofing, insulation, floor tiles, pipe lagging, and brake pads throughout the city from the 1940s through the 1980s.

How do I find a mesothelioma lawyer for my New York City case?

Look for attorneys who focus specifically on mesothelioma and asbestos litigation, have experience with NYC construction, shipyard, and WTC exposure cases, and work on a contingency fee basis so you pay nothing unless they recover compensation. Our partner attorneys have over 30 years of experience handling asbestos cases for construction workers, shipyard workers, first responders, and their families nationwide. Free, no-obligation consultations are available and can begin evaluating your case immediately.

Can lung cancer patients in New York City, New York file asbestos claims?

Yes. If you were diagnosed with lung cancer and have a history of asbestos exposure at New York City workplaces — including the World Trade Center, shipyards, construction sites, and power plants — you have the same legal rights as mesothelioma patients. You can file claims against asbestos trust funds (over $30 billion available nationally), pursue personal injury lawsuits, and access VA benefits if applicable. A smoking history does not disqualify you. Contact our partner attorneys at 1-800-400-1805 for a free case evaluation.

What is the difference between mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer?

Mesothelioma develops in the lining around the lungs or abdomen, while asbestos-related lung cancer grows inside the lung tissue itself. Mesothelioma is caused almost exclusively by asbestos, whereas lung cancer can be caused by asbestos, smoking, or both. Both conditions qualify for compensation from the same $30 billion+ in asbestos trust funds, and patients with either diagnosis can pursue lawsuits against responsible asbestos companies.

Updated: March 29, 2026

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Q: Can NYC construction and shipyard workers file mesothelioma claims?

Yes. NYC construction workers, shipyard workers, first responders, and other employees who were exposed to asbestos and later diagnosed with mesothelioma can pursue compensation through personal injury lawsuits, asbestos trust fund claims, and in some cases VA benefits. Multiple asbestos product manufacturers whose materials were used at NYC job sites have established trust funds through bankruptcy, with over $30 billion available nationally.

Q: What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma in New York?

New York allows 3 years from the date of diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit for mesothelioma, and 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. New York applies a discovery rule, meaning the statute of limitations begins when the disease is diagnosed rather than when the asbestos exposure occurred. Because mesothelioma has a latency period of 20 to 50 years, this distinction is critical for New York City workers diagnosed decades after their construction, shipyard, or WTC-related exposure.

Q: Was asbestos used in the World Trade Center?

Yes. The original World Trade Center towers, constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, used asbestos-containing spray-on fireproofing on structural steel throughout the lower floors. Hundreds of tons of asbestos materials were applied during construction. The collapse of the towers on September 11, 2001 released massive quantities of asbestos fibers into the air across Lower Manhattan, creating a secondary exposure event that affected first responders, cleanup workers, and residents of surrounding neighborhoods.

Q: How much compensation can NYC mesothelioma patients receive?

Compensation varies based on exposure history, number of responsible parties, severity of illness, and other factors. New York City cases often involve exposure at multiple construction sites, shipyards, and industrial facilities, which can increase total recovery through multiple trust fund claims and lawsuits. Over $30 billion remains in asbestos trust funds nationally. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can identify every applicable source of compensation for your specific case.

Mesothelioma-Lung-Cancer.org • Independent Mesothelioma Resource • No Fee Unless You Win

New York City's massive construction industry, active shipyards, and sprawling power infrastructure exposed hundreds of thousands of workers to asbestos over decades. The Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison power plants, World Trade Center, and NYC construction trades all used asbestos extensively. According to WikiMesothelioma.com, the collapse of the World Trade Center towers on September 11, 2001 released massive quantities of asbestos fibers across Lower Manhattan, creating one of the largest secondary exposure events in U.S. history. Due to a latency period of 20 to 50 years, New York City families are still being diagnosed with mesothelioma today. Asbestos exposure also causes lung cancer — and lung cancer patients have the same legal rights to compensation as mesothelioma patients.

400,000+ WTC Exposure Registry

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Medical and legal information reviewed and updated: March 29, 2026 • Sources: Industrial records, asbestos litigation databases, OSHA reports

Why Mesothelioma Cases Occur in New York City

New York City has one of the highest concentrations of asbestos exposure sites in the United States. The city's massive construction industry, active shipyards, sprawling power infrastructure, and the World Trade Center disaster created a uniquely dangerous asbestos landscape. For generations, NYC's working families relied on the construction trades, shipyards, and industrial plants that powered the city's growth — facilities where asbestos was woven into the fabric of daily operations.

The Brooklyn Navy Yard was one of the largest naval shipbuilding facilities in the United States. At its peak during World War II, the facility employed over 70,000 workers. According to WikiMesothelioma.com, the Brooklyn Navy Yard is among the most significant asbestos exposure sites in New York State, with asbestos used in ship insulation, engine rooms, boiler rooms, pipe lagging, gaskets, and building materials throughout the massive complex.

Con Edison operated power plants across the five boroughs, including the Ravenswood Generating Station in Queens and the Arthur Kill Station on Staten Island, all of which used asbestos insulation on boilers, turbines, and steam distribution systems. The World Trade Center complex, constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, used asbestos-containing spray-on fireproofing on structural steel throughout the lower floors of both towers. Hundreds of tons of asbestos materials were applied during construction. NYC's construction industry used asbestos-containing materials in virtually every large building project from the 1940s through the 1980s.

The 20-to-50-Year Latency Period

Mesothelioma does not appear immediately after asbestos exposure. The disease has a latency period of 20 to 50 years, meaning workers exposed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison plants, and NYC construction sites during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s are being diagnosed now. A shipyard worker who handled asbestos insulation at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in 1970 may only receive a mesothelioma diagnosis in 2025 or later. Additionally, first responders and cleanup workers exposed during the World Trade Center collapse in 2001 are now entering the window where asbestos-related diseases can manifest. This long latency period is why New York City continues to produce new mesothelioma cases.

The closure of the Brooklyn Navy Yard in 1966 and the decline of NYC's industrial sector do not diminish the asbestos exposure that occurred during decades of active operations. Workers who spent 20 or 30 years at the Navy Yard, Con Edison plants, or NYC construction sites accumulated massive asbestos exposure, and many are now in the age range where mesothelioma diagnoses are most common. Additionally, the renovation and demolition of older NYC buildings continues to create secondary exposure risks for construction workers.

New York City's Asbestos Legacy by the Numbers

The Brooklyn Navy Yard employed over 70,000 workers at its WWII peak. Combined with Con Edison plants, the WTC Health Registry (400,000+ people), and NYC's massive construction workforce, the city's total exposed population is among the largest in the nation. New York consistently ranks among the top states for mesothelioma incidence and mortality. If you worked at any NYC shipyard, construction site, power plant, or were present during the WTC collapse, documenting your asbestos exposure history is a critical first step.

Common Sources of Asbestos Exposure in New York City

Asbestos was deeply embedded in New York City's infrastructure for decades. The following categories represent the most significant sources of occupational asbestos exposure across the five boroughs.

Brooklyn Navy Yard

The Brooklyn Navy Yard was a major naval shipbuilding and repair facility that operated from the early 1800s through 1966. During World War II, the yard employed over 70,000 workers building and repairing warships. Asbestos was used throughout the facility in ship insulation, engine rooms, boiler rooms, pipe lagging across miles of piping, valve and flange gaskets, and building insulation across the massive complex. Shipfitters, pipefitters, boilermakers, and virtually every trade working at the yard were exposed to asbestos as part of their daily work environment.

World Trade Center

The original World Trade Center towers, constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, used asbestos-containing spray-on fireproofing on structural steel throughout the lower floors. Hundreds of tons of asbestos materials were applied during construction. The collapse of the towers on September 11, 2001 released massive quantities of asbestos fibers into the air across Lower Manhattan, creating a secondary exposure event that affected first responders, cleanup workers, and residents of surrounding neighborhoods.

Con Edison Power Plants

Consolidated Edison operated multiple power generating stations across New York City, including the Ravenswood Generating Station in Queens, Arthur Kill Station on Staten Island, and numerous substations. These facilities used asbestos insulation on boilers, turbines, steam pipes, and electrical components throughout decades of operation. Workers who operated, maintained, and repaired power generation equipment handled asbestos-containing materials as a routine part of their jobs.

NYC Construction Industry

New York City's massive construction industry used asbestos-containing materials in virtually every large building project from the 1940s through the 1980s. Asbestos was standard in fireproofing, insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, pipe lagging, joint compounds, and roofing materials. Construction workers, renovation crews, and demolition workers across all five boroughs were exposed to asbestos during building, maintaining, and tearing down structures.

Huntley Generating Station — Coal-fired power plant on the Niagara River with asbestos in boiler insulation, turbine casings, and piping systems
Dunkirk Generating Station — Lakefront power plant with documented asbestos use in mechanical and electrical systems

Grain Elevators and Processing

The New York City subway system, one of the largest public transit networks in the world, used asbestos extensively in tunnel insulation, station buildings, brake pads on train cars, and mechanical systems. Transit workers, maintenance crews, and construction workers who built and maintained the subway infrastructure were exposed to asbestos over decades of operations.

Exposure Source	Type of Facility	Asbestos Uses	Peak Exposure Era
Brooklyn Navy Yard	Naval Shipyard	Blast furnace insulation, coke ovens, pipe lagging, gaskets	1940s–1980s
World Trade Center	Naval Shipyard	Furnace insulation, pipe lagging, gaskets, building materials	1940s–1980s
Con Edison Plants	Power Generation	Coke oven insulation, quench towers, gas processing equipment	1920s–1970s
Huntley Generating Station	Power Generation	Boiler insulation, turbine casings, steam pipes, wiring	1940s–1980s
Dunkirk Generating Station	Power Generation	Boiler insulation, turbine casings, electrical components	1940s–1980s
NYC Subway System	Grain Storage & Processing	Dryer insulation, boilers, conveyor equipment	1930s–1970s
Allied Chemical	Chemical Manufacturing	Process insulation, gaskets, building materials	1940s–1980s
Carborundum Company	Abrasives Manufacturing	Furnace insulation, kiln lining, industrial equipment	1940s–1980s

This is not an exhaustive list. Thousands of buildings and facilities across New York City's five boroughs used asbestos-containing materials. If you worked in construction, shipbuilding, power generation, transit, or any industrial trade in the NYC area before the mid-1980s, or were present during the World Trade Center collapse in 2001, asbestos exposure is likely. Our partner attorneys maintain detailed databases of NYC exposure sites and can investigate your specific work history as part of a free case evaluation.

Jobs in NYC Linked to Asbestos Exposure

Certain occupations in New York City carried a dramatically higher risk of asbestos exposure. If you or a family member held any of these positions at an NYC job site, mesothelioma risk is elevated.

Steelworkers & Furnace Operators

Shipyard workers at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and other NYC maritime facilities operated in environments where asbestos insulation was found in ship hulls, engine rooms, boiler rooms, and pipe systems. The construction and repair of naval vessels required extensive use of asbestos for fireproofing and insulation, and workers who built, maintained, and repaired ships directly handled asbestos-containing materials daily.

Coke Plant Workers

First responders who worked at the World Trade Center site after the September 11, 2001 collapse were exposed to massive quantities of asbestos fibers released from the towers. Firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and cleanup workers spent weeks and months at Ground Zero breathing contaminated air. The WTC Health Program has documented elevated rates of cancer, including mesothelioma, among those exposed during rescue and recovery operations.

Pipefitters & Boilermakers

Pipefitters and boilermakers at NYC construction sites, Con Edison power plants, and the Brooklyn Navy Yard installed, maintained, and repaired piping systems and boilers insulated with asbestos. During maintenance operations at power plants and shipyards, these tradespeople removed old asbestos insulation in confined spaces, releasing dense concentrations of airborne fibers throughout their careers.

Power Plant Workers

Workers at Con Edison generating stations operated and maintained boilers, turbines, and steam distribution systems insulated with asbestos materials. Operators, maintenance crews, and electricians at Ravenswood, Arthur Kill, and other NYC power plants faced regular asbestos exposure during routine operations and equipment repair.

Insulators & Maintenance Workers

Insulators worked directly with asbestos-containing insulation materials across NYC's construction sites, power plants, and industrial facilities. They applied and removed insulation from piping, boilers, and equipment. Maintenance workers performed general repairs that frequently disturbed asbestos-containing materials in walls, ceilings, pipe insulation, and equipment housings across the city's buildings and infrastructure.

Construction & Demolition Workers

Construction workers who built and maintained NYC's skyscrapers, commercial buildings, and residential towers handled asbestos-containing building materials for decades. As older NYC buildings are renovated and demolished, construction workers continue to face exposure to asbestos materials installed decades ago. The ongoing renovation of pre-1980s buildings across the five boroughs poses asbestos exposure risks for construction tradespeople.

Documenting Your NYC Work History

If you held any of these positions at an NYC job site, documenting your complete work history is essential for building a mesothelioma claim. Our partner attorneys help clients reconstruct their employment timeline, identify every facility where exposure occurred, and connect that exposure history to specific asbestos product manufacturers and their trust funds. Even if your records are incomplete, they can use union records, Social Security earnings statements, coworker testimony, and facility records to build your case.

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Types of Mesothelioma Diagnosed in NYC

Mesothelioma develops when inhaled or ingested asbestos fibers become embedded in the lining of internal organs, causing cellular damage that leads to malignant tumor growth over decades. NYC's industrial exposure profile — shaped by shipbuilding, construction, power generation, and the World Trade Center collapse — produces specific patterns of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs)

Pleural mesothelioma accounts for approximately 75 to 80 percent of all mesothelioma diagnoses and is the most common form seen in NYC patients. This type develops in the pleura — the thin membrane surrounding the lungs — when inhaled asbestos fibers migrate to the pleural lining and cause chronic inflammation and eventual malignancy. NYC shipyard workers, construction tradespeople, and first responders who inhaled asbestos dust over years of occupational exposure are at the highest risk. Symptoms typically include persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, and fluid buildup around the lungs.

Early detection significantly affects treatment options and prognosis. If you worked at an NYC shipyard, construction site, or industrial facility and are experiencing respiratory symptoms, inform your physician about your occupational asbestos exposure history. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan is a nationally recognized cancer treatment facility. Visit our diagnosis and treatment page for more information.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen)

Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum — the lining of the abdominal cavity — and accounts for approximately 15 to 20 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses. Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma has advanced significantly, with cytoreductive surgery combined with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) showing improved survival rates. Regardless of the type, the same legal options are available to NYC patients and their families.

Content reviewed by legal team: March 29, 2026

Asbestos & Lung Cancer in NYC, New York and across New York: What Families Need to Know

Asbestos exposure doesn't only cause mesothelioma — it is also a proven cause of lung cancer. Workers who were exposed to asbestos at New York City shipyards, construction sites, and power plants face an elevated risk of developing asbestos-related lung cancer, sometimes decades after their last exposure. An estimated 4,800 Americans die each year from asbestos-related lung cancer, making it a significant but often overlooked consequence of occupational asbestos exposure.

Lung Cancer Patients Have the Same Legal Rights

If you or a loved one was diagnosed with lung cancer after working at New York City shipyards, construction sites, and power plants where asbestos was present, you may qualify for the same compensation available to mesothelioma patients — including claims against $30 billion+ in asbestos trust funds. A history of smoking does not disqualify you from filing a claim. Request a free case review.

How Asbestos Causes Lung Cancer

Unlike mesothelioma, which develops in the lining around the lungs, asbestos-related lung cancer grows inside the lung tissue itself. When microscopic asbestos fibers are inhaled, they become embedded in lung tissue and cause chronic inflammation, cellular damage, and DNA mutations that can lead to malignant tumor growth. The latency period is typically 10 to 30 years from first exposure to diagnosis — meaning workers exposed at New York City facilities in the 1970s through 2000s may be receiving diagnoses today.

Asbestos Lung Cancer vs. Smoking-Related Lung Cancer

Many workers in New York City and across New York State who were exposed to asbestos were also smokers. Medical research has established that the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure creates a synergistic effect, increasing lung cancer risk by 50 to 90 times compared to the general population. Importantly, a smoking history does not disqualify a patient from pursuing asbestos-related compensation. Courts and trust funds recognize that asbestos was a contributing cause of lung cancer even when smoking was also a factor. The Helsinki Criteria — the internationally accepted medical standard — provide a framework for determining when asbestos exposure contributed to a lung cancer diagnosis.

Compensation for Lung Cancer Patients in New York City and across New York

Asbestos-related lung cancer patients can pursue the same compensation pathways as mesothelioma patients:

Asbestos trust fund claims — over $30 billion remains available nationally
Personal injury lawsuits against companies that manufactured or used asbestos products
Wrongful death claims filed by surviving family members
VA disability benefits for veterans exposed to asbestos during military service

The statute of limitations in New York City and across New York State is 3 years from the date of diagnosis. Do not wait to explore your legal options — call 1-800-400-1805 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

For more detailed information, visit our asbestos & lung cancer resource page, including information about diagnosis, treatment options, and legal rights.

Mesothelioma Treatment Centers Near New York City

Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma in New York City have access to some of the region’s leading cancer treatment facilities. These centers offer specialized thoracic oncology programs, access to clinical trials, and multidisciplinary care teams experienced in treating asbestos-related cancers. Early evaluation at a specialized center can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York City, NY NCI-Designated Cancer Center

Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Clinical Trials Radiation Multimodal Therapy

MSK is one of the world's oldest and most respected cancer centers, with a dedicated mesothelioma program and extensive clinical trial portfolio.

NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center

New York City, NY NCI-Designated Cancer Center

Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Clinical Trials Radiation

Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone offers comprehensive thoracic oncology services and is recognized for innovative surgical approaches to mesothelioma.

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

New York, NY NCI-Designated Cancer Center

Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Clinical Trials Radiation

One of the first cancer centers in the country, Roswell Park provides specialized thoracic oncology care and participates in national mesothelioma research collaboratives.

Need Help Finding a Specialist?

Our partner attorneys work with leading mesothelioma specialists nationwide and can help connect you with the right treatment team. Call 1-800-400-1805 for a referral.

Settlement data verified & updated: March 29, 2026

Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer Compensation for NYC Families: What Partner Attorneys Have Recovered for Clients

If your family is facing a mesothelioma diagnosis in New York City, you are not alone — and compensation may be available. Below are actual amounts received by real clients of our partner attorneys, after attorneys’ fees and expenses, in mesothelioma cases involving asbestos exposure. Our partner attorneys represent families nationwide, including in New York City.

$30B+ Available in Asbestos Trust Funds

$1M – $1.4M Average Mesothelioma Settlement

$2.4M Average Trial Verdict

$2B+ Recovered for Clients

$6,142,500 Secondary Exposure

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a woman, age 68, who developed mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos through assisting her husband in his general contracting work and through contact with asbestos fibers on her husband's clothes.

$5,939,010 Construction / Demolition

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 46, who was exposed to asbestos while repairing boats and while doing demolition and repair of buildings damaged by fire and flooding.

$3,921,750 Navy / Construction

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a man, age 68, who was exposed through his service in the Navy, as an auto mechanic, and while working in construction.

$3,600,450 Navy / Contractor

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 67, who was exposed through his service in the Navy and as a construction contractor on commercial and residential projects.

$3,403,890 Navy / HVAC Mechanic

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 57, who was exposed through his service in the Navy and as a refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic.

$3,310,650 Industrial / HVAC

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 62, who was exposed while installing industrial and commercial furnaces and air conditioning units.

$3,185,280 Paper Mill / Carpenter

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 81, who was exposed through his work at a paper mill and as a carpenter.

$2,727,900 Navy / Telecom

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 61, who was exposed through his service in the Navy and as a telephone installer and repairman.

$2,082,780 Oil Refinery / Drywaller

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 81, who was exposed through his work at an oil refinery and as a drywaller.

$1,988,910 Oil Field Worker

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 50, who was exposed as an oil field worker.

All amounts shown are received by clients after attorneys’ fees and expenses. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique and compensation depends on individual circumstances including exposure history, diagnosis, and jurisdiction.

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NYC Veterans & Military Asbestos Exposure

New York City has a significant veteran population, and many veterans carry exposure histories that combine military service with post-service civilian employment at the city's shipyards, construction sites, and industrial facilities.

Navy Veterans and Industrial Transition

The U.S. Navy used asbestos extensively in ship construction from the 1930s through the 1970s. Veterans who served aboard Navy ships were exposed to asbestos in engine rooms, boiler rooms, and throughout their vessels. Many NYC-area veterans returned from military service and took jobs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison power plants, or NYC construction sites, where their mechanical skills were directly applicable. This resulted in decades of cumulative asbestos exposure spanning both military and civilian careers.

Veterans with dual exposure may be entitled to multiple compensation sources:

VA Disability Compensation — Monthly tax-free benefits for service-connected mesothelioma
VA Healthcare — Treatment at VA medical centers at no cost for service-connected conditions
Special Monthly Compensation — Additional VA benefits for veterans requiring aid and attendance
Asbestos Trust Fund Claims — Claims against asbestos manufacturers and their trust funds
Personal Injury Lawsuits — Civil claims against asbestos product manufacturers

Veterans: Filing VA Claims Does Not Affect Civil Claims

VA disability claims and civil mesothelioma lawsuits are separate legal processes. Our partner attorneys help NYC-area veterans pursue every available source of compensation simultaneously. If you are a veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma, time is critical — both the New York statute of limitations and VA filing processes have specific requirements that should be addressed promptly.

Family Members Exposed to Asbestos in NYC

Asbestos exposure in New York City did not stop at the job site gate. For decades, workers carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin, hair, and personal items — unknowingly exposing their families. This pattern, known as secondary or take-home exposure, has been documented extensively in NYC's industrial communities, particularly in the neighborhoods surrounding the Brooklyn Navy Yard and major construction sites.

How Secondary Exposure Occurred

NYC shipyard workers, construction tradespeople, and power plant workers typically arrived home covered in industrial dust that included asbestos fibers. Spouses who laundered contaminated work clothes released asbestos fibers into the household air. Children who greeted parents at the door or played near contaminated clothing were also exposed. In the close-knit neighborhoods of Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens, this exposure pattern affected entire communities.

Legal Rights of NYC Families

New York courts recognize secondary asbestos exposure as a valid basis for mesothelioma claims. Family members who developed mesothelioma from take-home exposure have the same legal right to pursue compensation as the workers themselves. If a family member of an NYC worker has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and never worked directly with asbestos, secondary exposure should be investigated.

Support Groups & Resources for NYC Families

A mesothelioma diagnosis affects the entire family. These organizations provide support, education, counseling, and practical assistance for patients and caregivers.

National Organizations

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation

Research & Patient Support

Leading mesothelioma research foundation providing patient support, education, and peer-to-peer networking for patients and families.

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Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)

Advocacy & Education

National advocacy organization dedicated to preventing asbestos exposure, providing support for those affected, and driving a global ban on asbestos.

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American Cancer Society

Patient Services

Comprehensive cancer support including patient navigation, local support groups, transportation assistance, lodging programs, and 24/7 helpline.

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CancerCare

Counseling & Support

Free professional counseling, support groups, educational workshops, and financial assistance programs for cancer patients and caregivers.

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New York Resources

New York State Cancer Consortium

State Resources

State-level cancer support, advocacy, and resources connecting New York families with local support services, financial assistance, and treatment information.

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Free Guide: NYC Asbestos Exposure & Your Legal Rights

If you or a family member worked at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a Con Edison power plant, NYC construction sites, or was exposed during the World Trade Center collapse, this guide explains your legal options.

NYC shipyard, construction, and WTC exposure sites and responsible companies
New York statute of limitations and filing deadlines
Which asbestos trust funds apply to NYC exposure cases
How to document your NYC work history for a legal claim
Veterans benefits available for dual-exposure cases
Secondary exposure rights for NYC workers' families

Steps NYC Families Can Take After Diagnosis

Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis is overwhelming. The following steps provide a clear path forward for NYC families.

Prioritize medical care. Seek treatment from an oncologist experienced with mesothelioma. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan is a world-renowned cancer center with thoracic oncology expertise.
Document your NYC work history. Write down every job, facility, and trade you performed — particularly at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison plants, NYC construction sites, or the World Trade Center. Include dates, job titles, employers, and coworker names.
Build an exposure timeline. Note specific tasks involving asbestos: ship insulation work, construction fireproofing, insulation removal, pipe fitting, or WTC rescue/cleanup, or proximity to these activities. Include military service details if applicable.
Contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney. New York allows 3 years from diagnosis to file a personal injury claim. Building a strong case requires early action. Our firm provides free, no-obligation consultations on a contingency basis.
Preserve important documents. Gather old tax returns, union cards, Social Security earnings statements, DD-214s, medical records, and job site photographs.
Understand your compensation options. NYC patients may qualify for personal injury lawsuits, asbestos trust funds, workers' compensation, the WTC Health Program, and VA benefits for veterans.
National Cancer Institute — Lung Cancer

You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone

Our partner attorneys have helped hundreds of families through the legal process after a mesothelioma diagnosis. The consultation is free, there is no obligation, and you pay nothing unless your attorney recovers compensation. Request a free case review or call 1-800-400-1805.

Co-Founder & Lead Attorney

Paul Danziger

Texas Bar #00788880 • Admitted 1993 • Northwestern University School of Law

Paul Danziger has spent over 30 years representing mesothelioma patients and their families across the United States. He co-founded Danziger & De Llano, LLP with the mission of providing personal attention and aggressive advocacy that asbestos victims deserve.

Before law school, Paul earned his B.B.A. and a Master's degree in Tax Accounting from the University of Texas and worked as a CPA and tax consultant in New York. His financial and legal background gives him a distinctive ability to evaluate complex mesothelioma cases and maximize compensation for his clients.

Paul has been named a Texas Super Lawyer multiple times (2006–2009, 2014–2016, 2024) and was recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers. He is also the executive producer and co-writer of the film Puncture (starring Chris Evans), based on a real product liability case.

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Co-Founder & Senior Trial Attorney

Rod De Llano

Texas Bar #00786666 • Admitted 1993 • Northwestern University School of Law

Rod De Llano brings over 30 years of complex litigation experience to every mesothelioma case he handles. A Princeton University graduate with a degree in economics, Rod combines analytical rigor with a deep commitment to justice for asbestos victims and their families.

Rod and Paul Danziger have worked together since law school at Northwestern, building one of the most experienced mesothelioma practices in the country. Rod's expertise in complex litigation — including multi-district asbestos cases, trust fund claims, and trial proceedings — ensures that every client receives the strongest possible representation.

30+ Years in Practice

Princeton University Graduate

$2B+ Recovered for Clients

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Find Out What Your NYC Mesothelioma Case Is Worth

If you or a family member was exposed to asbestos at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison power plants, NYC construction sites, the World Trade Center, or any New York City workplace and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to significant compensation.

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FAQ answers reviewed by legal team: March 29, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer in New York City

Why does New York City have elevated mesothelioma risk?

NYC has one of the highest concentrations of asbestos exposure in the U.S., driven by shipbuilding at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, massive construction activity, Con Edison power plants, and the World Trade Center collapse. According to WikiMesothelioma.com, the WTC collapse released massive quantities of asbestos across Lower Manhattan, exposing hundreds of thousands. The 20-to-50-year latency period means these exposures continue to produce new diagnoses today.

What sites in New York City used asbestos?

Major sites include the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Con Edison power plants (Ravenswood, Arthur Kill), the World Trade Center, NYC subway infrastructure, public schools, residential high-rises, and thousands of commercial buildings. Our partner attorneys maintain detailed records of asbestos use at specific NYC facilities.

Can NYC construction and shipyard workers file mesothelioma claims?

Yes. Workers exposed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, construction sites, power plants, or other NYC facilities who are diagnosed with mesothelioma can pursue compensation through lawsuits, asbestos trust fund claims, the WTC Health Program, and VA benefits for veterans.

What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma in New York?

New York allows 3 years from diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit and 2 years from death for wrongful death claims. New York applies a discovery rule. Do not wait to explore your legal options.

Was asbestos used in the World Trade Center?

Yes. The original World Trade Center towers used asbestos-containing spray-on fireproofing on structural steel throughout the lower floors. Hundreds of tons of asbestos were applied during construction. The collapse of the towers on September 11, 2001 released massive quantities of asbestos fibers across Lower Manhattan.

Can family members of NYC workers file mesothelioma claims?

Yes. Family members who developed mesothelioma from secondary (take-home) asbestos exposure can file claims. New York courts recognize these claims. Compensation is available through lawsuits and trust funds.

How much compensation can NYC mesothelioma patients receive?

Compensation varies by case. NYC cases often involve multiple exposure sites, increasing recovery through multiple trust fund claims. Over $30 billion remains in asbestos trust funds nationally. Our partner attorneys have recovered over $2 billion for mesothelioma patients and families.

How do I find a mesothelioma lawyer for my NYC case?

Look for attorneys who focus on mesothelioma litigation with NYC construction, shipyard, and WTC exposure experience, working on contingency. Our partner attorneys have over 30 years of experience. Call 1-800-400-1805 or submit a form above.

This page was last reviewed and updated on March 29, 2026 by the Mesothelioma-Lung-Cancer.org editorial team.

Sources & References

NYC Families Deserve Answers — and Justice

If you or someone you love was exposed to asbestos at an NYC shipyard, construction site, power plant, or the World Trade Center, do not wait. The New York statute of limitations is 3 years from diagnosis. Our partner attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation your family deserves.

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Mesothelioma Resources in New York

Find specialized treatment centers, doctors, and documented asbestos exposure sites in New York.

Treatment Centers in New York

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, NY

Comprehensive Cancer Center

Surgery, Immunotherapy, Chemotherapy

Mount Sinai Health System

New York, NY

Cancer Center

Surgery, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy

NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center

New York, NY

Comprehensive Cancer Center

Surgery, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

Buffalo, NY

Comprehensive Cancer Center

Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation

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Documented Asbestos Exposure Sites in New York

Brooklyn Navy Yard

Brooklyn, NY

Shipyard

1940s–1960s

Indian Point Energy Center

Buchanan, NY

Power Plant

1960s–1980s

Ravenswood Generating Station

Long Island City, NY

Power Plant

1960s–1980s

National Gypsum Gold Bond Plant

Buffalo, NY

Manufacturing

1930s–1970s

Garlock Sealing Technologies Palmyra Plant

Palmyra, NY

Manufacturing

1920s–1980s

World Trade Center

New York, NY

Construction

1968–1971

View all 10 exposure sites in New York →

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Hear From a Family We've Helped

Why Mesothelioma Cases Occur in New York City

The 20-to-50-Year Latency Period

New York City's Asbestos Legacy by the Numbers

Common Sources of Asbestos Exposure in New York City

Brooklyn Navy Yard

World Trade Center

Con Edison Power Plants

NYC Construction Industry

Grain Elevators and Processing

Jobs in NYC Linked to Asbestos Exposure

Steelworkers & Furnace Operators

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Power Plant Workers

Insulators & Maintenance Workers

Construction & Demolition Workers

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Types of Mesothelioma Diagnosed in NYC

Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs)

Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen)

Asbestos & Lung Cancer in NYC, New York and across New York: What Families Need to Know

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How Asbestos Causes Lung Cancer

Asbestos Lung Cancer vs. Smoking-Related Lung Cancer

Compensation for Lung Cancer Patients in New York City and across New York

Mesothelioma Treatment Centers Near New York City

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

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Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer Compensation for NYC Families: What Partner Attorneys Have Recovered for Clients

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NYC Veterans & Military Asbestos Exposure

Navy Veterans and Industrial Transition

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Family Members Exposed to Asbestos in NYC

How Secondary Exposure Occurred

Legal Rights of NYC Families

Support Groups & Resources for NYC Families

National Organizations

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)

American Cancer Society

CancerCare

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Personalized Resource Recommendations

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Free Guide: NYC Asbestos Exposure & Your Legal Rights

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Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer in New York City

Why does New York City have elevated mesothelioma risk?

What sites in New York City used asbestos?

Can NYC construction and shipyard workers file mesothelioma claims?

What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma in New York?

Was asbestos used in the World Trade Center?

Can family members of NYC workers file mesothelioma claims?

How much compensation can NYC mesothelioma patients receive?

How do I find a mesothelioma lawyer for my NYC case?

Sources & References

NYC Families Deserve Answers — and Justice

Mesothelioma Resources in New York

Treatment Centers in New York

Mesothelioma Specialists in New York

Documented Asbestos Exposure Sites in New York