OSHA 30 Hour Construction Program Practice Test

Which of the following is an example of Type A soils?

1. Sandy soil

2. Clay loam

3. Granular soil

4. Loose fill dirt

The correct answer is: Clay loam

Type A soils are characterized as cohesive soils with higher strength and stability, which typically include clay or clay loam. Clay loam specifically has a mixture of clay and silt and exhibits properties that make it more stable and less prone to collapse under load, which is crucial for safe excavations and construction work. In contrast, sandy soil tends to drain quickly and can be more susceptible to shifting, while granular soil has lower cohesion and can also be less stable. Loose fill dirt usually consists of a mixture of different soils and can vary in stability based on its composition and moisture content. Thus, understanding these characteristics helps ensure proper safety measures are implemented in construction practices, especially in excavation work.