Type A soils have an unconfined compressive strength of how many tons per square foot?

Type A soils, which are considered to be the most stable and have the highest strength classification among the soil types as defined by OSHA, have an unconfined compressive strength of 1.5 tons per square foot. This classification is essential for construction and excavation work because it helps determine the necessary safety measures and shoring required to prevent cave-ins and other soil-related incidents.

Understanding the properties of Type A soils is crucial for any excavation project as these soils exhibit great resistance to deformation and failure under load, thereby contributing to the overall stability of structures. The strength capacity provided by Type A soils influences decisions on excavation depth, side slopes, and support systems, making this knowledge critical for maintaining safety standards on construction sites.