Excavator Operator Certification Exam Prep · Question
A trench is being excavated in sandy, non-cohesive soil at a depth of 3 metres. According to Canadian safety standards, what is the minimum safe angle of repose (maximum slope) required for the trench walls if no shoring is used?
For sandy, non-cohesive soils, Canadian safety standards typically require a flatter slope for trench walls to prevent collapse. A 1.5:1 slope (meaning 1.5 hori
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Question: A trench is being excavated in sandy, non-cohesive soil at a depth of 3 metres. According to Canadian safety standards, what is the minimum safe angle of repose (maximum slope) required for the trench walls if no shoring is used?
Answer options:
- A vertical cut (90 degrees)
- A 1:1 slope (45 degrees) ✅ A 1.5:1 slope (approx. 33.7 degrees)
- A 2:1 slope (approx. 26.6 degrees)
Correct answer: A 1.5:1 slope (approx. 33.7 degrees)
Explanation: For sandy, non-cohesive soils, Canadian safety standards typically require a flatter slope for trench walls to prevent collapse. A 1.5:1 slope (meaning 1.5 horizontal units for every 1 vertical unit) or approximately 33.7 degrees, is a common minimum requirement for unstable or loose soils when shoring is not used. A 1:1 slope is often for more stable granular soils, while a 2:1 slope is for very unstable or saturated conditions.
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Question explanations
- During a final inspection of an excavator, prior to beginning work, an operator notices significant play in th
- An excavator operator is preparing to dig a trench in cohesive soil. To achieve maximum breakout force, what a
- Which control typically governs the arm (or dipper arm) movement for an excavator?
- What condition might require sloping or shoring of a trench less than 1.2 meters (4 feet) deep?
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