ROA/Surfacing/TBT-ROA-016
Road Construction Safety Awareness Overview
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Road Construction Safety Awareness Overview
Road construction involves earthworks, surfacing, kerb laying, drainage, and lining operations often carried out adjacent to live traffic. Workers face risks from hot asphalt, heavy rolling plant, silica dust from stone cutting, bitumen fumes, and the ever-present danger of being struck by vehicles. Strict traffic management, segregation of plant and workers, and task-specific PPE are all essential to manage the multiple hazards present during road construction activities.
Key Hazards
Severe burns from contact with hot asphalt at temperatures exceeding 150°C
Being struck by rollers, pavers, and other heavy plant moving in confined areas
Silica dust and bitumen fume exposure during cutting and surfacing operations
Vehicles from adjacent live carriageways entering the works area at speed
Control Measures
- Wear full-length trousers, long sleeves, and heat-resistant gloves when working with hot asphalt.
- Maintain strict segregation between pedestrian workers and moving plant within the surfacing area.
- Use RPE when cutting kerbs, slabs, or concrete to prevent silica dust inhalation.
- Ensure Chapter 8 compliant traffic management is in place before starting any roadside works.
- Position a banksman to control all reversing plant movements within the confined works area.
- Provide barrier cream and washing facilities to protect against bitumen fume skin exposure.
- Brief all workers on the surfacing sequence, plant movements, and their designated positions.
- Ensure adequate drinking water is available as road surfacing generates significant heat exposure.
- Stop work if traffic management is breached or displaced and reinstate before resuming operations.
Remember
- Hot asphalt causes severe deep burns on contact — it sticks to skin and clothing instantly.
- Never stand behind or beside a roller without eye contact with the operator and a clear signal.
- Silica dust from cutting kerbs is a cancer risk and requires water suppression and RPE.
- Traffic management protects you from live vehicles — report any damage or displacement immediately.
- Bitumen fumes are a respiratory and skin hazard requiring ventilation and protective measures.
- Road construction sites are dynamic and change constantly — maintain awareness of your surroundings.
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · COSHH Regulations 2002 · Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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