For effective control of asphalt paving works a comprehensive understanding is necessary of each of the following:-
(1) Specification requirements,
(2) Plant capabilities,
(3) Construction processes,
(4) Inspection requirements.
When faults occur, it is essential that they are quickly recognized, their cause determined and the necessary corrections made promptly.
Planning of Supervision of Asphalt Paving
Supervision commences prior to the start of the asphalt paving, when the engineer and project engineer with contractor’s manager, laboratory manager and supervisor to discuss plans and arrangements for the carrying out of the works. Matters affecting the quality and timing of the works and the control of traffic that should be discussed, include:-
• Rate of delivery of asphalt mix to the site,
• Sequence of operations and safeguards to ensure continuity,
• Number and types of rollers needed,
• Matching of asphalt mix supply and paving speed,
• The chain of command for giving and receiving instructions,
• Reasons for rejecting the asphalt mix and/or suspending work,
• Weather and temperature requirements,
• Traffic control,
• Lift thickness,
• Spreading and rolling sequences,
• Spreading and rolling temperatures,
• Planning to minimize joints.
Before Paving Starts
Before the paving operation begins, a check should be made to see that all necessary inspections and preparations have been carried out. In particular check that:-
(a) Base or roadway surface is properly prepared,
(b) Traffic control arrangements are satisfactory,
(c) Paving and compaction equipment is in good condition and adjustment,
(d) Hand tools are available on the job,
(e) Guidelines are in place,
(f) Asphalt Paver screed is heated to operating temperature,
(g) Inspectors and supervisors are familiar with the adjustments and settings of the type of
Asphalt Paver being used.