Introduction - Page 7

Introduction

A.

The roofing asphalt applied in all areas of the roofing system is of the proper type for the specification, slope, and climatic conditions, as required by the roofing materials manufacturer.

B.

Materials are properly stored and protected and that they are installed in a dry condition. If wet materials are used, foaming of the hot asphalt will result.

C.

The asphalt is being applied in the proper quantity between all plies, and that the spreading of the asphalt is uniform over the entire surface without voids or skips.

D.

The proper temperatures are maintained at the kettle or tanker and the point of application.

E.

The proper number of plies and types of felts are installed in accordance with the approved specification.

F.

The required thickness and/or R-value of the insulation, in the specified number of layers, is installed.

G.

All elements of the roofing system that have been installed are completed on the same day and not installed in phases.

A.

Review all safety requirements associated with heat weld applications prior to starting the project.

B.

Materials are properly stored and protected and are installed in a dry condition.

C.

Never heat weld directly to a combustible surface or into a concealed area.

D.

Apply the appropriate amount of heat to assure 100% adhesion.

E.

The proper number of plies are installed in accordance with the appropriate specification.

F.

Check all laps for water tightness.

G.

At the end of each day’s work, a knowledgeable mechanic should monitor the jobsite for a minimum of one hour to check for hot spots and act as a fire watch.

H.

All elements of the roofing system that have been installed are completed on the same day and not installed in phases.

A.

Hot asphalt can cause severe burns; contact with skin and eyes should be avoided. Workers should wear protective clothing, eye wear, and gloves when using hot asphalt. JM recommends that all kettles be supplied with thermostats with an automatic shutoff.

B.

Prolonged or repeated contact with cold asphalt may cause skin irritation. Animal studies in which condensed chemical fractions of asphalt fumes were repeatedly painted on the skin of laboratory mice have shown the development of skin tumors.

C.

Inhalation of asphalt fumes can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and upper respiratory system. Inhalation of asphalt fumes can also cause drowsiness, headache, and nausea. Prolonged breathing of fumes should be avoided. Workers should work upwind, if possible. Install exhaust ventilation when practical. If working in the fumes is unavoidable, use a combination organic vapor, dust, fume/mist respirator.

D.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has completed the most comprehensive literature review to date (1994) on asphalt workers. They have concluded that there is inadequate evidence that asphalt fumes cause cancer in humans.

A.

JM does not make or sell a coal tar pitch waterproofing product, and does not recommend its use.

B.

Coal tar pitch is considered to be a hazard by inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified coal tar pitch as an agent which is carcinogenic to humans (Group1).

A.

JM heat weldable modified bitumen systems are intended to be installed only by licensed, qualified roofing contractors and their trained crews.

B.

The roofing contractor shall ensure that each mechanic involved in the application of a heat weld modified bitumen has been properly trained. The issuance of a valid Certified Roofing Torch Applicator (CERTA) card shall be evidence of proper training. CERTA training is available through the Roofing Industry Educational Institute (RIEI) or the MRCA.

C.

Wear protective long sleeve shirts, pants, boots, eye wear and gloves when installing these products.

D.

Workmen other than the person doing the heat welding should be no closer than three feet from the open flame.

E.

Follow NRCA and OSHA fire protection and prevention provisions including, but not limited to, those listed in OSHA 1962.1 150., 152.1, 153, 191, 1-10 as they apply to torch applications.

F.

Be familiar with NFPA 58 "Standards for the Storage and Handling of Liquified Petroleum Gases."

G.

Refer to Section 7, "Modified Bitumen Specifications" and Section 13 "References" for further information on Health and Safety when utilizing heat weldable specifications.

H.

Installation of heat weld products creates a risk of fire, including smoldering fires.

I.

JM recommends that all members of the roofing crew review the "ARMA-Torch Applied/Heat Welding Modified Bitumen Roofing Installation Requirements" manual and video prior to application of any heat welded material. These products are intended for use by a professional roofing contractor trained and skilled in the safe use and handling of propane torch equipment.

J.

All contractors must be licensed and insured in order to apply any JM heat weldable products.