At A-1 Asphalt, our crew's safety is paramount. That's why we ensure that every member of our team has the proper training and experience. Furthermore, we always follow the proper rules and regulations to create safe job sites for our workers.
While the information in this blog post is helpful, it's not meant to replace actual training. Rather, it's to help you understand why asphalt paving safety is so important.
Here's what you need to know.
Prevent Fires
As the name suggests, is stored and used at high temperatures. For this reason, our crew is always aware of their surroundings. This includes keeping flammable objects away from the job site so that they won't start a fire.
Many things can be hazardous while paving new asphalt. This especially includes sources of ignition. The risk of a fire increases when sparks, open flames, or electricity is present.
Reputable contractors prohibit sources of ignition from asphalt paving sites. Even something as small as a lit cigarette butt can be a risk to asphalt workers.
Make sure that all your workers have the proper training so they know how to respond to a fire.
Be Responsible When Operating Equipment
Operators must always be aware of their surroundings. But it's also important that the rest of the crew also remain vigilant while moving around the job site. That way, they're able to keep a safe distance from heavy machinery at all times.
Your crew may also need to wear hearing protection when loud equipment is running.
Beware of Traffic
Working on the side of the road can leave you and your team vulnerable to traffic. In this situation, it is best to remain aware of your surroundings.
Most people are responsible drivers. But some may choose to drive while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Others may refuse to slow down and move into the other lane to give your team the space they need to remain safe.
Road maintenance vehicles are protected under . This requires motorists to slow down to 10 miles below the speed limit when passing emergency vehicles with their lights activated. It also requires them to move into the other lane if possible.
The problem is that many drivers refuse to do this or may even speed in construction zones. For this reason, it's dangerous to work on the side of the road.
Stay alert as much as possible and warn your workers should a vehicle get too close.
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment is a must for asphalt paving jobs. Employers who refuse to provide their workers with the proper PPE are violating OSHA safety regulations.
Employers should also make sure that their workers are wearing the necessary protective gear when the job conditions call for it. PPE significantly reduces the chance of serious injury should something go wrong.
Safety should always be the first priority with any asphalt paving job.
Request a Free Quote From A-1 Asphalt Inc.
A-1 Asphalt Inc. is a reputable asphalt contractor that's proud to serve Greater Grand Rapids. As such, we do everything in our power to ensure our crew works under safe conditions.
To request a free quote for any of our services, please call A-1 Asphalt Inc. at (800) 871-4401. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.