Navy Rating Asbestos Exposure Profiles

Navy enlisted ratings were not equally exposed to asbestos-containing materials. The rating a veteran held determined which compartments they worked in, which equipment they maintained, and how frequently they encountered pipe insulation, boiler lagging, gaskets, and other documented ACM sources.

Ratings in the engineering spaces — Boilerman (BT), Machinist’s Mate (MM), and Engineman (EN) — typically reported the highest frequency of ACM contact. Hull Technicians (HT) and Damage Controlmen (DC) worked in compartments where insulation was routinely cut and disturbed during repair operations.

Veterans who served in any of these ratings may qualify for VA presumptive service connection under 38 CFR § 3.309(d) if they have developed mesothelioma, asbestosis, or another asbestos-related disease. No statute of limitations applies to VA claims.