(1) Scope and application. This appendix contains specifications for sloping and benching when used as methods of protecting employees working in excavations from cave-ins. The requirements of this appendix apply when the design of sloping and benching protective systems is to be performed in accordance with the requirements set forth in WAC 296-155-657 (2)(b).

(2) Definitions.

Actual slope. The slope to which an excavation face is excavated.

Distress. Soil that is in a condition where a cave-in is imminent or is likely to occur. Distress is evidenced by such phenomena as the development of fissures in the face of or adjacent to an open excavation; the subsidence of the edge of an excavation; the slumping of material from the face or the bulging or heaving of material from the bottom of an excavation; the spalling of material from the face of an excavation; and ravelling, i.e., small amounts of material such as pebbles or little clumps of material suddenly separating from the face of an excavation and trickling or rolling down into the excavation.

Maximum allowable slope. The steepest incline of an excavation face that is acceptable for the most favorable site conditions as protection against cave-ins, and is expressed as the ratio of horizontal distance to vertical rise (H:V).

(3) Requirements.

(a) Soil classification. Soil and rock deposits must be classified in accordance with appendix A of this Part.

(b) Maximum allowable slope. The maximum allowable slope for a soil or rock deposit must be determined from Table N-1 of this appendix.

(c) Actual slope.

(i) The actual slope must not be steeper than the maximum allowable slope.

(ii) The actual slope must be less steep than the maximum allowable slope, when there are signs of distress. If that situation occurs, the slope must be cut back to an actual slope which is at least 1/2 horizontal to one vertical (1/2H:1V) less steep than the maximum allowable slope.

(iii) When surcharge loads from stored material or equipment, operating equipment, or traffic are present, a competent person must determine the degree to which the actual slope must be reduced below the maximum allowable slope, and must ensure that such reduction is achieved. Surcharge loads from adjacent structures must be evaluated in accordance with WAC 296-155-655(9).

(d) Configurations. Configurations of sloping and benching systems must be in accordance with Figures N-1 through N-18.