Introduction/framework/objectives

It is not uncommon for Occupational Health teams to have a client in the road paving sector; however, literature for this area is sparse. The aim of this article is to summarize the most pertinent and recent articles published on the subject.

Methodology

This is a Bibliographic Review, initiated through a search carried out in August 2021 in the databases “CINALH plus with full text, Medline with full text, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Methodology Register, Nursing and Allied Health Collection: comprehensive, MedicLatina and RCAAP”.

Contents

The IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) classified the asphalt used for paving roads as possibly carcinogenic to humans (group 2b), due to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. However, epidemiological studies do not show clear evidence of a higher incidence/prevalence of diseases of this type, although the risk may be different, depending on the route of entry (inhaled versus cutaneous) and the specific composition. There are also aliphatic hydrocarbons, cyclic alkanes and heterocyclic compounds. The association with different types of cancers is inconclusive but still stronger for lung versus skin. Some of these substances can cause chromosomal instability which, in turn, some argue that it can lead to cancer pathology.

Discussion and Conclusions

In the research carried out there was only data related to the chemical agents inserted in the asphalt; no references were found to other Occupational Risk/Risks Factors, such as other chemical agents, dust; noise, cut, vibrations associated with different machines; physical loads/efforts, forced/maintained postures, falling to the same level or at different levels, and eventual burial; ultraviolet radiation and thermal discomfort or trampling.

As for the chemical risk, most authors consider that some substances included in the composition of the asphalt, especially under certain technical conditions (equipment, temperature, asphalt subtypes), may be carcinogenic to humans. However, even at this level, collective or individual protection measures are not mentioned, in order to provide concrete guidance for those who have clients in this sector. In the context of the former, it can be assumed that it would be pertinent to promote the rotation of tasks, to choose the types of asphalt considered less toxic (whenever possible) and the equipment that worked at lower temperatures, with less noise and vibrations; promote good maintenance of machines and purchase safer models; as well as organizing training and access to adequate Occupational Health services. In turn, at the level of Personal Protective Equipment, one could use mask/visor, hat/cap, uniform, glasses (for ultraviolet radiation and entry of foreign bodies), sun protection cream, ear protection, gloves (for cutting/abrasion and/or vibration), knee braces and/or abdominal restraint straps.

It would be important for some Occupational Health teams working in the area to better study the sector and develop valid knowledge about the gaps mentioned, disseminated through publication in journals of the area.

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