General Contractor License Site Work and Excavation 2

Question 1

What is the minimum required distance from the edge of an excavation that spoil piles must be placed to prevent cave-ins?

Accepted Answer

2 feet

Answer

OSHA requires spoil piles to be placed at least 2 feet from the edge of an excavation to reduce surcharge loads that could cause collapse.

Question 2

Which soil classification is considered the most stable for excavation purposes under OSHA standards?

Accepted Answer

Type A

Answer

Type A soil is the most stable classification, having an unconfined compressive strength of 1.5 tons per square foot or greater.

Question 3

When performing dewatering operations during excavation, where should the discharge water be directed?

Accepted Answer

To a storm drain or approved discharge point away from the site

Answer

Discharge water must be directed away from the excavation to an approved point to prevent saturation of the surrounding soil and potential cave-ins.

Question 4

What must a contractor do before beginning any excavation work in an area with unknown underground utilities?

Accepted Answer

Call 811 (Dig Safe) to have utilities located and marked

Answer

Federal law requires calling 811 before digging to have underground utilities located and marked, preventing damage and injuries.

Question 5

A sloped excavation in Type B soil must not exceed a slope ratio of:

Accepted Answer

1H:1V

Answer

OSHA requires a maximum slope of 1H:1V (45 degrees) for Type B soils to provide adequate stability.

General Contractor License Practice Test