What's New with ISSA Technical Director Bob Jerman- November 2021

It is with much gratitude that I begin this report with the news that the new “ISSA Design and Inspection Manual for Slurry Surfacing Systems” was completed and released approximately four weeks ago!   Again, as stated throughout the course of this work, my appreciation to the Committee for the entire body of work and sacrifice of time, contribution of talents, and passion to “get it done right” cannot be overstated. 

For those of you that were familiar with the previous version of the Manual, you will quickly notice the changes to the latest revision.  Among those, the new title indicates the dual functionality of the manual to focus on slurry surfacing system designers as well as for the system inspectors’ responsibilities during and post application.  There are a multitude of notes clearly identified and dedicated to both designers and inspectors throughout the manual.  Updated pictures, figures, indexes, and significant additions to content defining today’s best practices will be obvious to all that take advantage of this valuable resource.  Please reach out to our administrative team to get access to the Manual today.

One of the benefits of ISSA membership is the opportunity to engage the Technical Committees with ideas about potential research projects that have the potential to improve performance of our ISSA disciplines.  One such project was initiated based on a presentation given at both the 2021 ISSA Workshop and Annual Meeting.  The focus was centered around a study comparing Wet Track Abrasion Test results using the current methods as defined in ISSA Technical Bulletin No. 100 versus results using the full gradation and a thicker mold.  This led to significant follow up discussion and the decision to pursue this research further.  In extending the study, participation by a significant number of ISSA member laboratories will take place throughout 2022.  Stay tuned.

Another great example of new leadership on our Technical Committees is the significant work being done on our A165 Chip Seal Guideline.  After meeting with the committee chairs in September to discuss major revisions to the Guideline, it was decided that the best path forward was for the Committee to focus on development of two Guidelines, one for emulsified asphalt applications and one for hot-applied applications. 

Please note that we continue to seek your feedback on the "Recommended Performance Guideline for Polymer-Modified Emulsified Asphalt Slurry Seal, A115 - Provisional" as a next generation, non-rut filling slurry surfacing system for your pavement preservation toolbox.   We want to hear from you in greater detail (bobjerman54@gmail.com) regarding your experiences with this Guideline.

In closing, 2021 has been a challenging year for all of us from a variety of perspectives.   I doubt that there’s been a single person reading this that hasn’t been impacted by the COVID-19 virus.  Its affects vary widely, from being completely asymptomatic to life ending.  Having dealt with it personally over the last five weeks, I am blessed to be here.   As with many of you, I have lost friends that I go to church with, former work colleagues, and others.  Again, I know that I am blessed to be here and continue to work with all of you.  Please continue to take every precaution to stay safe. 

Reach out to us with your technical questions and ideas on where our committees should focus their attention.  Your participation in ISSA is needed and encouraged.

"Every day is a gift!  Never take a single one for granted!"

Sincerely,

Bob Jerman

ISSA Technical Director