Bituminous Pavement Fundamentals
- Use correct terminology for bituminous materials and pavement layers.
- Identify the main components of asphalt and understand their roles.
- Describe the key stages in asphalt production, transport, laying, and compaction.
- Recognise common on-site risks that can lead to poor quality or defects.
- Support supervisors and engineers by carrying out basic inspection checks.
- Understand sustainability considerations such as recycling and low-energy mixtures.
- Recognise how the Specification for Highway Works (Series 700) sets minimum requirements for bituminous pavements.
Overview
This one-day Bituminous Pavement Fundamentals course introduces participants to the fundamentals of bituminous pavements. It is designed specifically for new entrants to the industry, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to support site inspections and reduce avoidable errors.
Who should attend
New entrants to the construction industry, apprentices, graduates, and junior site staff
Course Content
This one-day Bituminous Pavement Fundamentals course introduces participants to the fundamentals of bituminous pavements. It is designed specifically for new entrants to the industry, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to support site inspections and reduce avoidable errors. Through clear explanations, practical examples, and interactive exercises, the course develops an understanding of materials, processes, testing and inspection points essential to achieving high-quality, durable pavements. The course also highlights where Series 700 of the Specification for Highway Works applies, ensuring participants gain awareness of the standards underpinning site practice and inspection.
Purpose and Reason Why
- Focus on inspection and error prevention, supporting a “right first time” approach.
- Highlights Series 700 of the Specification for Highway Works, linking practice to recognised standards.
- Builds confidence to contribute effectively to site quality.
Who Should Attend
Location
Classroom-based, with interactive activities and case examples
Course Syllabus
Day 1
Session 1 – Introduction to Bituminous Pavements
- What asphalt is, where it is used, and why it matters.
- Basic pavement structure and terminology.
Session 2 – Materials & Mixes
- Aggregates and bitumen: properties and functions.
- Types of mixtures (e.g. dense, SMA, porous).
- Sustainability: recycled asphalt and warm mix technologies.
- Reference: Series 700 requirements for mixture compliance and approvals.
Session 3 – From Plant to Site
- Asphalt production basics.
- Transport and delivery: inspection checks and risks.
- Requirements for delivery, temperature, and documentation.
Session 4 – Laying & Compaction
- Site preparation and weather considerations.
- Laying temperatures, compaction techniques, joints.
- Indicators of good vs poor practice.
- Compaction testing
- Requirements for laying tolerances, compaction requirements, and joint treatment.
Session 5 – Common Defects & Inspection Role
- Typical pavement defects (segregation, bleeding, poor joints, etc.).
- Causes, consequences, and prevention.
- Role of inspection in error reduction.
- Series 700 quality control testing and defect rectification.
Session 6 – Pavement testing
- Structural Condition – FWD
- Surface Macrotexture
- Road Profile & Ride Quality
- Polished Stone Value
- Additional Site-Specific Appendix / Series 700 tests.
Session 7 Wrap-Up & Review
- Key takeaways.
- Interactive quiz/photo exercise to reinforce learning.
- Next steps for continued development.
