For excavations less than 20 feet made in type A soil, what is the maximum allowable slope?

In the context of trench safety and excavation practices, type A soil is classified as the most stable type of soil, which is typically cohesive and can maintain a steeper slope compared to less stable soil types. For excavations less than 20 feet deep in type A soil, the maximum allowable slope is 3/4:1. This slope means that for every 3/4 of a vertical unit, there should be a horizontal run of 1 unit, which equates to a ratio of 0.75 to 1.

This slope is designed to ensure safety during excavation activities by minimizing the risk of soil collapse and providing adequate support for the walls of the excavation. Adhering to this guideline helps prevent accidents and protects workers who are present in or near the excavation site. It reflects the standards set by regulatory bodies focused on occupational health and safety, ensuring that effective measures are taken to manage the risks associated with trenching and excavation in type A soil.