Which of the following actions should be taken if the average temperature of five loads deviates by more than 15°F?

The correct action when the average temperature of five loads deviates by more than 15°F is to monitor until within tolerance. This approach acknowledges the importance of temperature control in asphalt paving, as temperature significantly affects the workability and performance of the asphalt mix. Monitoring allows for observation of any trends or further deviations without making hasty decisions that could lead to improper placement.

In practice, if the temperature is beyond the acceptable range, it is crucial to keep an eye on subsequent loads closely. This ensures that a more informed decision can be made about whether adjustments are necessary, rather than immediately reacting to the initial deviation. Typically, if the temperatures remain outside of the tolerance level, then further actions such as reporting to site management or making adjustments are warranted based on the ongoing observations.

The other options do not reflect the recommended procedure. Continuing with the placement without considering the temperature deviation could lead to poor asphalt performance. Adjusting the temperature immediately might not allow for an accurate assessment of the situation and could result in further complications. Reporting to site management is usually a step after monitoring to provide context for decision-making should conditions not improve.