Safety checklist — Asphalt / Paving
Asphalt laying and paving work. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
14 items- ✓
PPE worn: heat-resistant sole boots, insulated gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves
- ✓
Check asphalt temperature (140–160°C typical) — severe burn riskCritical
ℹ️ Hot asphalt causes instant 3rd degree burns
- ✓
Site signage and markings conform to Tome V (road works)
- ✓
Truck and paver traffic plan established — signal person in placeCritical
ℹ️ Signal person mandatory during backing manoeuvres (CSTC art. 10.4)
- ✓
Underground services checked — manholes and catch basins identified
- ✓
Fire extinguisher accessible near the paving zone
- ✓
Sunscreen / hydration available — outdoor work + radiant heat
- ✓
Never walk in fresh asphalt — burn and sinking risk
- ✓
Maintain safe distance from paver auger
- ✓
Wear respirator with organic vapor cartridge if exposed to asphalt fumes
ℹ️ Bitumen fumes contain PAHs — monitoring recommended (OHS Reg)
- ✓
Roller at reduced speed — no pedestrians in compaction zone
- ✓
Frequent shade breaks — apply heat protocol if > 30°C
- ✓
Constant communication between paver operators, truckers and rakers
- ✓
Surface level checked — construction joints properly made
After work
4 items- ✓
Freshly paved area barricaded — no traffic until cooled
- ✓
Equipment cleaned (screeds, smoothers) with release agent
- ✓
Temporary signage maintained until safe to open
- ✓
Asphalt tank and lines purged if end of day
More checklists — Heavy Work
More safety checklists
Risks and prevention — Asphalt and paving
Asphalt paving exposes workers to high temperatures (hot mix is laid at 135–165 °C), bitumen fumes, and burn risks. RSST governs exposure to bitumen emissions and requires adequate ventilation for work in confined spaces like tunnels.
Road signage per MTQ Tome V is mandatory to protect workers and road users. Work zones must be clearly delineated with crash attenuators and lit signage at night.
Paver, compactor, and delivery truck operators must coordinate using visual and radio signals. Vehicle reversing is the leading cause of fatal accidents during paving operations.
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