Inhalation of vapour and fumes

A variety of vapours and fumes are emitted during handling bitumens at elevated temperatures. Visible emissions or fumes normally start to develop at approximately 150°C and the amount of fume generated doubles for each 10°C to 12°C increase in temperature (Shell Bitumen 2003). 

The 2000 National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) hazard review continues to support the assessment of the 1977 NIOSH criteria document on asphalt fumes (NIOSH 1977), which associated exposure to asphalt fumes from paving and other uses of asphalts with irritations to eyes, nose and throat (NIOSH 2000). In the same review, it was also stated that some studies reported evidence of acute lower respiratory track symptoms among workers exposed to asphalt fumes. 

Grade Minimum pumping temperature (°Q Typical bitumen temperature at time of application (°C) Max. handling and storage temperature (°C) Typical long-term storage temperature (°C) 

Source Institute of Petroleum, Bitumen safety code, Model code of safe practice in the petroleum industry. Part 11,4th Edition. London Energy Institute, 2005. 

Based on protracted storage period without addition of fresh binder. For bulk bitumens, the temperature should not fluctuate above and below 100°C as this increases the risk of condensation leading to boilover. 

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Most potential hazards of bitumen arise from handling the bitumen at elevated temperatures (more than 100°C). At elevated temperatures, skin burns and inhalation of vapour and fume emissions are the most common hazards that occur. However, there is always a danger associated with water coming into contact with hot bitumen and its self-ignition-combustion. 

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