Which type of soil, according to OSHA standards, is classified as granular?

In the context of OSHA standards, granular soil is classified as Type C soil. Granular soils consist of larger particles that do not stick together, which allows them to easily drain water and be less cohesive. This classification typically includes materials such as sand and gravel, which are characterized by their free-draining capabilities and reduced cohesion compared to finer particles found in other soil types.

Understanding the classification is crucial for excavation safety because different soil types present varying levels of risk and required protective measures. Type C soils, for instance, may require different methodologies for shoring or sloping due to their instability when excavated, especially when depths increase. Properly recognizing that Type C relates to granular soils helps in assessing the necessary precautions to ensure worker safety around excavation sites.