A construction site has a trench that is 8 feet deep in Type B soil. What is the maximum allowable simple slope ratio for the sides of this excavation?
Correct Answer
C) 1:1 (45 degrees)
For Type B soil, OSHA requires a maximum simple slope of 1:1 (45 degrees) for excavations. This means for every foot of depth, the slope must extend horizontally at least one foot from the edge.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.652 specifically requires a maximum simple slope of 1:1 (45 degrees) for Type B soil excavations. This means the slope must extend horizontally at least one foot for every foot of depth. Type B soil includes cohesive soil with unconfined compressive strength greater than 0.5 tsf but less than 1.5 tsf, and this slope ratio provides adequate protection against cave-ins. The 1:1 ratio is a critical safety standard that must be followed regardless of excavation depth in Type B soil.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: 1 1/2:1 (34 degrees)
The 3/4:1 slope (53 degrees) is steeper than the required 1:1 ratio for Type B soil and does not meet OSHA safety requirements for excavation protection.
Option D: 3/4:1 (53 degrees)
While 1 1/2:1 (34 degrees) would be safer than required, it exceeds the maximum allowable slope - the question asks for the maximum allowable ratio, which is 1:1, not a more conservative option.
Memory Technique
Type B = 1:1 - remember 'B for Basic 1:1' or visualize that Type B soil needs a 45-degree angle, which looks like half of a square cut diagonally.
Reference Hint
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.652 - Requirements for protective systems, Table B-1 for soil classification and slope requirements
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