2. 1
• An estimated 350 million metric tons of asphalt are produced
annually, primarily for use in roofing and road paving. Although
working with asphalt has many advantages, occupational exposure to
asphalt can have negative consequences on health. For instance,
explosions and fires are caused by accidents involving asphalt.
Inhaling asphalt fumes can potentially result in both immediate and
long-term health problems.
3. 2
• These are all valid reasons to make sure you're wearing the
appropriate personal protective equipment, or PPE, when working
with asphalt. Exposure to asphalt paving hazards can be minimized or
eliminated with the proper PPE for the job.
4. 3 Asphalt: What Is It?
• One of the most often utilized materials in building and infrastructure
projects is asphalt. It is specifically a black, viscous liquid made of oil
that is frequently combined with binders, hardeners, bonding agents,
and other solvents (diesel, naphtha, toluene, kerosene, etc.) to form a
solid surface that hardens. Crushed rock and reclaimed rubber are
two further components that are frequently included.
5. 4 Industries Using Asphalt on a Regular Basis
• The main applications for asphalt are in construction and
infrastructure. The majority of asphalt is really thought to be used in
road construction, where it is combined with other aggregates to
make the asphalt concrete roadways that are driven on by Canadians
on a daily basis. In addition to being utilized in infrastructure, asphalt
is also made into roofing materials, felt, waterproofing treatments,
and sealants for flat roofs.
6. 5 -
• Risks of Working with Asphalt Explosion/Fire: Because asphalt is
mostly made of crude oil and is handled and stored at high
temperatures, it poses a serious risk of fire. It may catch fire because
to these high temperatures, particularly if it comes into touch with an
open flame, spark, or other source of ignition.
7. 6
• Exposure to asphalt fumes: In order to liquefy and make it easier for
workers to pour and spread, asphalt is usually heated between 150
and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Nevertheless, heating asphalt releases
toxic gases. H2S, or hydrogen sulfide gas, can be released by hot
asphalt and cause respiratory discomfort, asphyxia, or even death.
8. 7
• Body exposure (skin burns and chemical absorption): It's crucial to
keep asphalt off the skin because it's handled and stored at high
temperatures. Serious burns, rashes, and other skin abnormalities
may result from failing to do this. It might possibly raise the chance of
developing skin cancer. In addition, asphalt fumes and asphalt
particulate matter might irritate eyes. Workers should find the on-site
eyewash station and flush their eyes for at least fifteen minutes if
asphalt gets in their eyes.