Does Asphalt Affect Your Health?

Asphalt is a sticky, dark black substance often used for paving roads and driveways. It is made from a mixture of petroleum products and aggregate materials, such as gravel or sand. When heated, the asphalt becomes soft and can be easily spread across a surface. As it cools, the asphalt hardens and provides a durable, long-lasting surface. In addition to its durability, asphalt is also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

Why do people prefer asphalt?

 

 

1. Durable

Asphalt is a highly durable material that can withstand wear and tear. That’s why it’s often used for roads and driveways. It’s also easy to repair if it does sustain any damage. If the damage isn’t too severe, a simple patch job should do the trick. And since asphalt is so strong, it can last for many years with proper maintenance. So if you’re looking for a material that will stand the test of time, asphalt is worth considering.

2. Cost-efficient

Asphalt is one of the most popular paving materials due to its durability, low cost, and easy maintenance. Unlike concrete, asphalt is less susceptible to cracking and can better withstand extreme temperatures. Asphalt is also much easier to repair than concrete, which can be a major advantage over the lifetime of a pavement. In addition, asphalt pavements can be recycled, making them a more sustainable option than concrete. For all these reasons, asphalt is typically the most cost-effective choice for paving projects.

3. Helps in water drainage

Asphalt is a popular material for pavements and roofing due to its durability and water-resistant properties. When used for pavements, asphalt helps to channel water away from the surface, preventing pooling and reducing the risk of flooding. In addition, the smooth surface of asphalt helps prevent puddles from forming, making it an ideal material for areas prone to heavy rains.

4. Quiet

Noise pollution is a serious problem in many urban areas. Traffic noise can cause insomnia, increase stress levels, and even lead to hearing loss. Asphalt is an effective material for noise reduction, and it is often used in the construction of sound barriers. When properly installed, asphalt can help to reduce traffic noise by up to 50%.

While it is durable and long-lasting, asphalt can also be hazardous to your health. Studies have shown that exposure to asphalt fumes can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Besides, during the hot summer months, the asphalt can reach temperatures of over 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This can cause the release of harmful toxins into the air, including benzene and toluene. These chemicals can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.

Long-term exposure to asphalt fumes has been linked to cancer, liver damage, and kidney damage. If you are working with asphalt or live near a construction site where asphalt is being used, take precautions to protect your health.

 

 

Steps to protect yourself from exposure to asphalt

• Wear gloves

According to the Florida asphalt paving experts from ABC Paving, gloves are an essential part of any construction worker’s safety gear. They protect your hands from the harsh chemicals and materials you work with daily. Asphalt is no exception.

This sticky, black substance is made up of various chemicals, many of which can be harmful to your skin. When working with asphalt, it’s important to wear gloves to protect yourself from exposure. Once you’re finished working, wash your hands thoroughly to remove any residual asphalt. If you don’t have access to soap and water, hand sanitizer can also be effective.

• Wear coveralls

Another way to protect yourself is by wearing coveralls. Coveralls help create a barrier between your skin and the asphalt, and they also help to trap any harmful vapors. In addition, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid touching your face or eyes while working with the material. By taking these simple precautions, you can help to keep yourself safe while working with asphalt.

• Wear a face shield

It can also be dangerous to inhale asphalt fumes, as they can contain harmful chemicals such as benzene. To protect yourself from exposure to asphalt, it is important to wear a face shield when working with the substance. A face shield will help prevent runway of the chemicals in the asphalt and protect your lungs from inhaling the fumes.

• Use a respirator

Although asphalt is safe to use, exposure to high levels of bitumen can cause health problems. The most common symptoms of asphalt exposure are skin irritation, headaches, and dizziness. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia or cancer. To protect yourself from exposure to asphalt, you should use a respirator when working with it. A respirator will filter out the harmful particles in the air and protect your lungs from being exposed to them.

Bottom Line

These are the possible health effects of asphalt. However, by taking the measures discussed above, you will be able to protect yourself and avoid these side effects. Besides, this doesn’t mean that asphalt is naturally harmful. Prolonged exposure to hot asphalt fumes can harm your health.