The construction industry is set to undergo a significant shift as there are new on-site workplace safety regulations becoming operational that will revolutionize asphalt paving operations in the European continent. Starting from January 1, 2027, the use of temperature-lowered asphalt (TA) is no longer voluntary but mandatory, allowing tighter compliance with health protection standards in road building.
Why the change is necessary
As hot asphalt is laid, carcinogenic vapors and aerosols containing condensates of bitumen are released into the air. The emissions have long been suspected to impact the health of workers. As a counter to this, the occupational exposure level of 1.5 milligrams per cubic meter as an eight-hour time-weighted average was mandated in 2019. Yet, the enforcement has continued to be postponed time and again, and the recent suspension is effective until the end of 2026. Once the new rules take effect in 2027, it should be strictly followed in all projects by this limit.
Understanding temperature-reduced asphalt
In comparison with traditional hot mixes, TA is produced and applied at temperatures at least twenty degrees Celsius lower. Through the utilization of particular additives or higher-level processing techniques, the asphalt stays workable even at reduced heat. European Asphalt Pavement Association has established warm mix asphalt as between 130 and 140 degrees Celsius. Not only does this lower dangerous emissions, but it also enhances safety in the workplace and facilitates paving operations in a physically less demanding manner.
Implications to construction companies
The transition to TA asphalt will be more than just a change of materials. It will require planning, storage, and logistics adjustments. Companies will have reduced compaction times, new storage protocols, and modified on-site operations. Moreover, public procurement policy will need to establish TA asphalt as the standard, compelling companies to reorganize in advance.
Support and security measures
To encourage it, the German Social Accident Insurance Institution for the Construction Industry (BG Bau) has provided financial support. Firms can be subsidized to a maximum of €3,000 for equipping pavers with extraction gear or using remote-control technology in mastic asphalt installation. To complement such efforts, BG Bau has also produced an industry handbook in the form of Bitumen in the Hot Installation of Mastic Asphalt, available online.
At the center of occupational health policy lies the STOP principle:
S – Substitution: Less hazardous materials substituted for hazardous materials, for instance, TA asphalt.
T – Technical measures: Mounting equipment with extraction devices.
O – Organizational measures: For instance, rotation of staff.
P – Personal protective equipment: Such as the wearing of respiratory masks.
While personal and organizational safeguards have proven hard to maintain on a continuing basis, material substitution and technical solutions have been much more feasible. It is for this reason that the introduction of TA asphalt is typically regarded as a landmark in reducing work hazards in road making.
Conclusion
The mandatory application of lowered-temperature asphalt from 2027 is not just an obligation but also a key step toward building a healthier, safer working climate in construction. Reducing emissions, increasing protection for laborers, and improving industry practice, the transition shows increased care for sustainable development in the road infrastructure sector.
By Bitumenmag
Asphalt, Road, Pavement
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