CSLB General Building (B)SafetyHard
A construction site has a 10-foot deep trench in Type B soil. What is the maximum distance a spoil pile should be kept from the edge of this trench, according to Cal/OSHA standards?
- A2 feet
- B1 foot
- C3 feet
- D5 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 2 feet
Cal/OSHA requires that spoil piles be kept at least 2 feet back from the edge of the excavation. This distance helps prevent material from falling back into the trench and reduces the surcharge load on the trench wall, regardless of soil type or depth.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 1 foot is insufficient and does not meet the minimum requirement.
- C. While a greater distance is safer, 3 feet is not the minimum specified by Cal/OSHA.
- D. 5 feet is a very safe distance but not the minimum regulatory requirement.
Cal/OSHA Spoil Pile Distance
Cal/OSHA requires spoil piles to be placed at least 2 feet back from the edge of an excavation to prevent material from falling into the trench and to avoid adding surcharge weight.
- Minimum 2 feet from trench edge.
- Prevents falling material.
- Reduces surcharge on trench walls.
Memory trick: Spoil piles need 'Two Feet' of space.