Toolbox Talk: Asphalt Fumes — What You Don’t See Can Hurt You
Did You Know?
Alberta has the world’s largest reserve of asphalt — known as bitumen — found in the Athabasca oil sands. While asphalt is essential in road building and roofing, exposure to its fumes can pose serious health risks. [3]
KNOW THE RISK
- Asphalt is a petroleum-based material used in paving and roofing. When heated, it releases fumes that can pose chemical exposure hazards. [1]
- Fumes can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory system. Repeated exposure may cause headaches, nausea, or dizziness. [2]
- Certain types of asphalt fumes have been linked to cancer in laboratory studies, particularly when exposure is long-term or poorly controlled. [2]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Don’t Eat, Smoke, or Drink Around Asphalt Work
- Keep all food, drinks, and tobacco away from areas where asphalt is being heated, poured, or applied. This prevents ingestion of harmful particles. [2]
2. Limit Inhalation Exposure
- Use a NIOSH-approved respirator when working around high levels of fumes, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. [3][2]
3. Avoid Skin Contact
- Wear protective gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses to prevent burns or absorption through the skin. Clean exposed skin thoroughly after contact. [2]
4. Remove Contact Lenses Before Working
- If fumes or vapors enter the eyes, contact lenses can trap chemicals against the surface of the eye. Use safety goggles instead. [2]
ASPHALT SAFETY REMINDER
Asphalt fumes may not always be visible, but their effects are real. Protect yourself with proper PPE, ventilation, and hygiene practices. Long-term exposure without precautions isn’t worth the risk.