In excavations 5 feet or deeper, what is the maximum allowable simple slope for Type A soil according to OSHA standards?
Correct Answer
C) 53 degrees (3/4:1)
For Type A soil, OSHA allows a maximum simple slope of 53 degrees from the horizontal, which is expressed as a 3/4:1 ratio. This slope provides adequate stability for the strongest soil classification.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.652 specifically states that Type A soil, which is the most cohesive and stable soil classification, allows for a maximum simple slope of 53 degrees from the horizontal. This translates to a 3/4:1 slope ratio, meaning for every 3/4 foot horizontal distance, there is 1 foot of vertical rise. Type A soil includes cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength of 1.5 tons per square foot or greater, making it stable enough to support this steeper angle compared to other soil types.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: 90 degrees (vertical)
90 degrees (vertical) would be an unsupported vertical cut, which is extremely dangerous and only allowed under very specific conditions with proper shoring systems, not as a simple slope.
Option D: 34 degrees (1.5:1)
34 degrees (1.5:1) is too conservative for Type A soil and is actually closer to the required slope for Type B soil, which is less stable than Type A.
Memory Technique
Think 'A-grade soil gets 3/4 to 1' - Type A soil (the best grade) allows 3/4:1 slope ratio, and 3/4 is close to 1, just like A is the first letter.
Reference Hint
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.652 - Requirements for protective systems, Table B-1 for maximum allowable slopes
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