Identifying Soil Types Is Vital for Excavation Jobs

On every job site where excavation is occurring, one of the most important responsibilities for competent workers is accurately classifying soil. OSHA’s “Subpart P, Appendix A” describes methods of classifying soils based on site and environmental conditions. The competent person is required to perform at least one visual and one manual test as a basis for classifying the soil. The soil type is then used to select a shielding, shoring protective system or sloping technique that will protect workers. OSHA recognizes four types of soils: Stable rock OSHA defines stable rock as natural, solid mineral matter that can be excavated with vertical sides, and