A collaborative document from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) describes current practices for reducing workers'' exposure to asphalt fumes during the manufacture of asphalt roofing products.
The publication, "Asphalt Fume Exposures During the Manufacture of Asphalt Roofing Products: Current Practices for Reducing Exposures," represents a collaborative effort by industry, labor and government, including NIOSH, the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, the Asphalt Institute, the National Roofing Contractors Association and the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers.
The document describes the process for manufacturing asphalt roofing products, identifies steps in the process that have the potential for worker exposure to asphalt fumes, and identifies current engineering control methods and work practices to reduce exposures.
In addition, it lists relevant research needed for further reducing exposures.
NIOSH said, the primary purpose of the document is to increase awareness among plant managers, safety and health professionals, and engineers about the potential for asphalt and asphalt fume exposures and current exposure-reduction practices in the industry.
Copies of the publication are available by calling the NIOSH toll-free information number at (800) 356-4674.
by Virginia Foran