HEERA ALAYA

ARTERIES

“Asphalt is toxic. The chemicals mixed in asphalt
can be harmful if you inhale asphalt fumes for extended periods.”

KENNY
Asphalt paver, USA

March 8th, 2022

Asphalt paving ranks among the most hazardous construction occupations. Road workers endure extreme conditions—such as heatwaves, snowstorms, and rain—while operating heavy machinery, cutting concrete, welding, paving, shovelling asphalt, painting, assembling barriers, and managing traffic. The inherently dangerous nature of this work often leads to serious injuries, including head trauma, loss of eyesight, and even fatalities. During my visit to the site, I had the opportunity to meet several asphalt pavers, including Kenny, Adrian, and Mark. Kenny took a moment to step aside and speak with me.

Heera Alaya: Good morning.

Kenny, Adrian and Mark: [In chorus] Good morning.

I see you’re busy. May I snatch a few minutes of your time?

Kenny: Sure.

Thank you.

What is your crew currently working on?

We are repairing the streets and fixing the potholes. First, we remove the old asphalt and then lay down the new asphalt.

How long does it typically take to complete a project of this size [half a block]?

It takes about three hours. It’s not so much about preparation; it’s a mental challenge.

What do you mean when you say your job is mentally challenging?

We shovel a lot of asphalt, which is heavy, especially when it gets cold. It will be physically demanding if you are not built for it [asphalt paving]. But mentally, it’s about telling yourself you will get the job done. I have seen many people come and go in my short time here. Summertime is brutal. We got 100 degrees on our backs, and the asphalt comes out at 200-400 degrees.

Thank you for explaining.

What time do you start work in the morning, and how early does your day begin?

We are up pretty early. Today, we started at 6.30 am, so I was up around quarter to five. It all depends on our schedule— when we need to be at work. Before working on-site, we have to put up signs to prevent people from parking in certain areas and monitor traffic.

What time do you finish work?

We can get off at 4:00 pm, which is a good time, or we could continue until 7:00 pm.

That’s pulling in a long day.

Yeah.

How many days a week do you work?

Six days a week.

What do you like to do on your days off?

Get ready for Monday because we only have one free day—Sunday.

[Laughter]

We spend as much time as possible with the family, rest, and return on Monday morning. During football season, Sundays involve watching games and playing with the kids. If we get off early on Saturday, we have a bit of Saturday evening and Sunday to rest, but most of the time we’re working.

You mentioned that the asphalt is heated to temperatures between 200 and 400 degrees. Where does this heating process take place?

The asphalt is heated at the plant. And we transport it here [the site] using a dump truck.

What are some dangers associated with working with asphalt?

Asphalt is toxic. The chemicals that are mixed in asphalt can be harmful if you inhale asphalt fumes for extended periods. But we rotate our jobs and get some fresh air and water. The hotter the asphalt is, the steamier it will be. You distance yourself from the steaming asphalt when you get a second.

Do you have health insurance?

Yes, Ma’am.

How do you stay hydrated during the summer months?

To stay hydrated during the summer, our crew of twelve operates like a family. We consistently refill coolers with ice and water, and we also make a point of drinking plenty of Gatorade.

If you could change something about this job, what would it be?

There is a lot I can’t say; you can’t change the world. But I would like to see an improvement in the pay rate; we all want that. I would also like to change the hours. I don’t mind getting here at 6:30 a.m., but working until late in the evening and getting right back up at 5:00 a.m. is hard. I am a young guy, and I can take it, but it does take a toll on your body due to a lack of proper sleep.

How many more years do you plan to work as an asphalt paver?

I might do 10 years, maybe 15. I am trying to move up. I started as labourer and have progressed to the position of looper.

What does looping entail?

A looper ensures the grade is even and the edges are well-defined.

Good luck to you.

I want to say something.

Kenny, I insist.

[Laughter]

Thank you for showing interest in us.

Your words melt my heart. I appreciate you guys. Thank you for accommodating me.

Have a good day.

President, Farm Sanctuary, USA