Since 2010, VDOT and VAA have hosted regional seminars across Virginia to educate and inform industry (i.e., contractors, consultants and VDOT personnel) about changes that will impact their work in the coming paving season.  This year will be no different!  The regional seminars will focus on three main areas – worker safety, on-going initiatives, and specification changes.  The first two presentations will focus on safety – the soon to be implemented OSHA Silica regulations and Work Zone Safety.  The OSHA regulation deals with silica dust generated in various construction and lab processes.  The Work Zone Safety presentation will include 2016 accident statistics from Virginia.  

 

After a short break, attendees will learn about the results from the 2016 asphalt initiatives.  These initiatives include the pilot projects for field density bonus and asphalt mix consistency bonus. The next presentations will focus on construction approaches and inspection reminders.  New for 2017 will be a specification related to the straightness of longitudinal joints. Discussion will be provided on the intent of the specification by VDOT and a best practices to construct a straight, smooth joint. Immediately after lunch, a joint presentation between VAA and VDOT will outline the various preventive maintenance practices used by VDOT and other municipalities as well as the key aspects to inspecting and accepting these practices.  

 

The final two presentations will discuss MITS/PLAID and 2017 specification changes.  VDOT will present the updated MITS/PLAID system and discuss capabilities for assessing and improving mix production through the enhancements.  The last presentation before a panel discussion will be reviewing specification changes for the 2017 paving season.  While not numerous, a few specifications have been modified or added.   

 

The Regional Seminars will be held on February 23rd in Roanoke, February 28th in Fredericksburg and March 1st in Richmond. More details on the seminars can be found on the VAA website (www.vaasphalt.org).  While the registration deadline has passed, contact the VAA office directly to attend either the Fredericksburg or Richmond seminars.