General Contractor License Site Work and Excavation 4

Question 1

Which piece of equipment is best suited for bulk earthmoving operations over long haul distances on a large grading project?

Accepted Answer

Scraper (motorized or push-pull)

Answer

Self-loading scrapers efficiently cut, carry, and deposit large volumes of soil over longer distances in a single operation, making them ideal for mass grading.

Question 2

What does 'shrinkage factor' mean in earthwork calculations?

Accepted Answer

The reduction in volume when loose soil is compacted relative to its bank volume

Answer

Shrinkage factor accounts for the fact that compacted fill occupies less volume than the same material in its natural bank state, affecting fill quantity calculations.

Question 3

What is 'rock excavation' typically defined as in contract specifications?

Accepted Answer

Material that cannot be excavated without blasting or hydraulic breaking due to its hardness

Answer

Contract specifications typically define rock excavation as material requiring mechanical breaking (hoe-ram) or blasting to remove, and it is usually paid at a higher unit price.

Question 4

In an urban excavation project, what is 'sheet piling' primarily used for?

Accepted Answer

Creating a watertight vertical barrier to retain soil and groundwater around an excavation

Answer

Sheet piling consists of interlocking steel or vinyl sections driven into the ground to retain soil and groundwater, allowing excavation in tight urban spaces without sloping.

Question 5

What frequency of inspection is required for excavations by a competent person?

Accepted Answer

Daily and after any hazardous condition (rain, freeze-thaw, adjacent loads)

Answer

OSHA requires a competent person to inspect excavations daily before work begins and as needed throughout the shift, and after rain, freezing, or other events that could affect stability.

General Contractor License Practice Test

General Contractor License Practice Test

General Contractor License Site Work and Excavation 4