SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT
202.01 Description.
This work includes excavation and the satisfactory placement and compaction or disposal of all materials encountered within the limits of the work as necessary for the construction of the roadway, bridge, stormwater structures, etc. Earth Excavation. Earth excavation includes the removal of suitable and unsuitable soils not otherwise classified and the removal of boulders and rock fragments less than 1 cu yd in volume from the following areas: • Within the design excavation section • Beyond the design excavation section of the roadbed or side slopes where unsuitable materials are encountered • Beyond the design excavation section of shallow embankments when unsuitable materials are encountered Presplitting Bedrock. This work includes producing a plane of split rock before any drilling or blasting for roadway rock excavation. Ensure that the plane follows the design rock slope lines and extends from the top of the bedrock surface to the proposed rock shelf levels and either to the toe of finished rock slope or to the invert of side drains. Rock Excavation. Rock excavation includes the removal of intact bedrock and boulders or detached bedrock fragments that have a volume of 1 c u yd or more. Boulders and detached rock fragments that have a volume of less than 1 cu yd are considered Earth Excavation. Rock Excavation – Mechanical. Use this classification of rock excavation where blasting is prohibited. R emove rock excavated under this classification using hydraulic splitters, air rams, or paving breakers. Unsuitable Soils. Unsuitable soils include those soils other than muck that, due to their consolidation properties, degree of saturation, gradation, or other deleterious characteristics, will not provide: • A stable subgrade or side slopes • Cannot be used as or support embankment • Cannot be placed and compacted as backfill
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-15 Muck Excavation. Muck excavation includes the removal and disposal of deposits of saturated or unsatu rated mixtures of soils and organic matter not suitable for foundation material regardless of moisture content. Stockpile the ex cavated muck at approved locations within the right -of-way and/or disposed of. Channel Excavation Earth. Channel Excavation Earth includes all materials other than water or Channel Excavation Rock, removed from existing, new, or temporary water courses. Channel Excavation Rock. Channel Excavation Rock includes intact bedrock and boulders 1 cu yd or more in volume removed from existing, new, or temporary water courses. Channel Excavation Rock – Mechanical. Use t his classification of rock excavation in channel construction areas where blasting is prohibited. Remove rock excavation under this classification using hydraulic splitters, air rams, or paving breakers. Unclassified Excavation. Unclassified Excavation includes the excavation, stockpiling, and/or removal and disposal of a composite mixture of various types of materials that are impractical to segregate into separate classifications as determined by the Engineer. Embankment Construction. Embankment Construction includes constructing roadway embankments, including the preparation of the areas: • Upon which they will be placed • The benching of embankments • The construction of side slopes and toe drainage ditches • The construction of dikes within or outside the right-of-way • The placing and compacting of approved material where unsuitable material has been removed • The placing and compacting of embankment material in holes, pits, and other depressions within the roadway area
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-16 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Use only materials in the construction of embankments and backfills that meet the material requirements. Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils. This item of work includes the requirements for the RIDEM approved Remedial Action Work Plan (RAWP) and the Soil Management Plan (SMP), including: • Maintaining existing or proposed chain link fencing (as applicable) for excavation locations, temporary staging areas, and soil stockpile • Furnishing, installing, and removing temporary barrier fencing for excavation locations, temporary staging areas, and temporary soil stockpiles, as applicable • The special handling, hauling, unloading, and stockpile management of unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous soil from the excavation location to the approved stockpile/testing location(s) • Testing the soil for contamination • The management of site security/access • The setup, maintenance, and removal of the stockpile locations including above soils, polyethylene sheeting, hay bales, and temporary barrier fencing • Work and contingency plan supplies • Equipment • Site maintenance • Dust control • Returning the site to a condition acceptable to the Engineer Load, Haul, and Dispose of Contaminated Soil. This item of work includes soil management, special handling, loading and hauling of unclassified, contaminated or hazardous soil, and disposal at an off -Project Industrial/Commercial property, recycling or disposal facility accord ing to RIDEM regulations for recycling/disposal of these materials and as directed by the Engineer. Load, Haul, and Disposal of Other Waste. This item includes all testing for the presence of controlled/hazardous materials that may exist in and around existing bridge joints classified herein as other waste. Other waste includes solid debris and/or refuse materials such as: • Bridge joint material • Caulk • Concrete • Rubble
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-17 • Pipe • Lumber and other building materials This item also includes any special handling, transporting, and disposing of the wastes to a proper and fully licensed off-site disposal or recycling facility. Manage contaminated and hazardous waste according to all applicable State, Federal, and local regulations including the EPA, OSHA, and RIDEM Remediation Regulations. Perform the work according to all applicable revisions and in compliance with all applicable permits.
202.02 Materials.
Common Borrow. Ensure that Common Borrow complies with Subsection M01.01 before final placement. Gravel Borrow. Ensure that the Gravel Borrow complies with Subsection M01.09, Table I, Column I before final placement. Contaminated Soils. Contaminated soil classifications are defined as follows: • Type 1. Excess excavated Project soil that cannot be reused in which levels of arsenic, lead, and other RCRA Eight Metals, TPH, VOCs, and PAHs are found to be below RIDEM Method 1 Residential Direct Exposure Criteria (RDEC) through testing. • Ty pe 2. Excavated or excess excavated Project soil that cannot be reused in which levels of arsenic, lead, and other RCRA Eight Metals, TPH, VOCs, and PAHs are found to be above RDEC but below I/C DEC through testing. Load, haul, and dispose of this soil at a licensed facility. Concentrations are within disposal parameter limits allowed in State landfills as landfill cover. • Ty pe 3. Excavated or excess excavated Project soil in which levels of arsenic, lead, and other RCRA Eight Metals, TPH, VOCs, and PAHs are found to be above I/C DEC through testing but are within acceptable criteria parameters such that the material can be disposed in out-of-state landfills for landfill cover or landfilling without pretreatment. Load, haul, and dispose this soil at a licensed facility. • Ty pe 4. Excavated Project soil in which levels of arsenic, lead, and other RCRA Eight Metals, TPH, VOCs, and PAHs are found to be above I/C DEC through testing but are within acceptable criteria parameters such that the material can be disposed of in out-of- state landfills for landfilling without pretreatment or the material is suitable for asphalt batching. Load, haul, and dispose this soil at a licensed facility. • Ty pe 5. Excavated Project soil in which contamination levels exceed EPA and/or RIDEM hazardous waste characteristics necessitating disposal as hazardous waste.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-18 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils. Use all materials and equipment required to adequately provide and maintain excavation location security/access, minimize the effects of erosion and surface run -off, and complete the unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous soil excavation, and the handling, hauling, unloading, and stockpiling. Load, Haul, and Disposal of Other Waste. Use all required materials to adequately remove, contain, haul, and dispose of contaminated other waste, debris, or surplus materials resulting from the Project as described in the Contract. Use personal protective equipment as specified in the Contractor’s Project specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP).
202.03 Construction Methods.
Excavation – General. Remove all soil, rock, and other material, and use or dispose of the materials as required. Finish the excavation for the roadway, intersections, and entrances to reasonably smooth and uniform surfaces. Clean and scale all rock cuts for all loose fragments. Do not dispose of any excess materials on the Project site. Conduct excavation operations so that material outside of the slope limits will not be disturbed. Before beginning excavation operations, ensure that all work has been performed according to SECTION 201, and install all erosion and pollution controls according to SECTIONS 206 through 211. Maintain slopes, crowns, berms, and ditches on all excavations to ensure satisfactory drainage at all times to protect the work and to maintain safe working conditions. When the excavation operations encounter remains or artifacts of potential historical or archaeological significance, temporarily halt operations. Immediately contact the Engineer, who will determine the disposition of the discovery. When directed by the Engineer, excavate the site to preserve the artifacts encountered, and remove them for delivery to the custody of the proper State authorities. The excavation will be paid for as Extra Work according to Subsection 104.05.
a.Rock Excavation – General. If bedrock is encountered above the design finished grade, notify the Engineer of the change in classification. Continue soil excavation to expose the bedrock surface and to allow the Engineer to perform the necessary elevation survey and take cross-sectional measurements. Before removal of overburden or presplitting and blasting to excavate to the design rock slope face, locate the presplit line and the intersection of the crest of the design slope with the existing ground surface. Establish elevations of the existing ground surface along the intersection alignment at one-half station intervals. Install marker stakes at the directed station intervals, offset as directed by the Engineer in writing. Rock Excavation may be performed by blasting, where not prohibited, or by mechanical methods. However, where blasting is allowed, bedrock removal will be classified, measured, and paid for as Rock Excavation.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-19 Submit a Blasting Plan before the performance of any drilling or blasting. Ensure that the Plan includes as a minimum the full details of drilling and blasting patterns and techniques proposed for controlled and production blasting. Department review of the Blasting Plan does not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility to use current drilling and blasting technology and for obtaining the desired results. Furnish a technical representative from the manufacturer of the explosive materials. Provide an individual experienced in the use of explosives commensurate with the circumstances encountered in the Project. Ensure that the manufacturer's representative is available before starting and during blasting operations to determine the proper equipment, devices, materials, methods, and procedures used for the work. For all operations involving explosives and/or blasting agents, ensure that the work is performed according to the “NFPA 495: Explosives Materials Code,” as amended. If the Code conflicts with the RIDOT Standard Specifications, the Code will apply. For blasted excavation work, develop the means and methods necessary to attain rock slopes consistent with the most conservative safety requirements. Excavate material classified as rock to a minimum depth of 12 in. below subgrade within the limits of the roadbed, and backfill the excavation as required.
b.Care in Blasting. Conduct the blasting operations to prevent injury to persons and property. For each occurrence of blasting, provide a sufficient warning to everyone in the vicinity of the work according to “NFPA 495: Explosives Materials Code,” as amended, but not later than immediately before blasting. Do not conduct blasting within 25 ft of an existing building or in-service underground utility line.
c.P ower of Explosives. Ensure that the explosives employed have the power and are placed in the quantities and positions that will not: ● Unduly enlarge the excavation ● Unnecessarily shatter the rock beyond the limits of the excavation ● Injure work already in place.
d.Transportation, Handling, and Storage. Transport, store, handle, and use as required by applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and ordinances. Obtain the necessary permits for these activities. Ensure that each storage facility is clearly signed “Danger – Explosives” with the signs visible on all exterior walls of the facility. Retain on the job only that quantity of explosives needed for the work underway and only during the time they are being used. Store explosives securely and separately from all tools. Store caps or detonators separately and more than 100 ft from the explosives. When there is no further need for explosives, immediately remove all explosive material remaining on the job from the premises.
e.Approval by the Engineer . S ubmit to the Engineer a safety program that includes the procedures for the prevention of injury to persons and or damage to property and the work. The Engineer may reject the safety plan for any deficiency. The Engineer’s approval does not relieve the Contractor from any responsibility or liability from the use of explosives.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-20 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Revise and resubmit rejected plans accordingly. C omply with this program at all times during the prosecution of the work. Not later than two calendar weeks before initiating blasting, present permits to the Engineer before any blasting will be allowed. Do not initiate blasting until the Engineer has given approval in writing. If the Engineer determines at any time that the use of explosives is unsafe or dangerous to persons, property, utilities, or the work, the Engineer may direct the Contractor to use other means that do not require the use of explosives at no additional cost to the Department.
f.Notification of Local Authorities and Utilities. Before any explosives or detonator caps are stored or used, notify the Police, Fire, public works, public officials, and utilities where the Project is located as required by applicable Federal, State , and local law s, codes, and ordinances. In addition, adhere to the following: ● Designate an individual who shall be responsible for the explosive materials at all times. ● Immediately report all unaccounted explosive materials to the Engineer, Police, Fire, public works, public officials, and utilities where the Project is located.
g.Records. Maintain a complete record of blasting operations, noting the date, exact location with reference to a datum, weight of charge, and whether the firing was instantaneous or delayed according to Federal, State , and local law s, codes , and ordinances. Furnish the Engineer with a complete record of blasting operations during the preceding weekly period. Ensure that the records document: ● The date, quantity, and type of explosive materials delivered to the construction sites(s) ● The quantity of explosive material used ● The quantity of material subsequently removed from the construction site(s) Immediately upon request, provide all records related to the possession and use of explosive materials for review by the Engineer, Police, Fire, public works, public officials, and utilities. The Engineer may withhold payments related to blasting work unt il the records are submitted.
h.Repairs. Repair any damage to existing roadway and roadside surfaces, drainage lines, structures or other objects as a result of the use of explosives as directed by the Engineer and according to the Contract. Make all repairs at no additional cost to the Department.
i.R ock Excavation – Presplitting. When required, presplit the rock along the designated cut face to produce a uniform plane of rupture so that the resulting face will not be affected by subsequent fragmentation blasting and excavation operations.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-21 Use presplitting where the intended exposed rock slope exceeds 10 ft in vertical height. Rock cuts more than 25 ft in vertical height may be presplit in stages (lifts), provided that no stage is less than 10 ft in depth. Offset presplitting holes in successive stages not more than 2 ft inside of the previously presplit stage face. When drilling and blasting behind existing previously drilled and blasted rock faces to widen the rock cut, presplit along the new rock face alignment to prevent over blasting of the new rock face. If after excavating the blasted rock, it is not possible to hold a true and neat face-of-rock, excavate all loose and unstable, fractured, or seamed rock to a stable face of rock behind the neat lines. Ensure that the drilled presplitting holes follow the required rock slope lines and inclinations. Provide a maximum spacing of 3 ft between presplitting holes, center -to- center, and a diameter not greater than 3 in. Extend presplitting holes from the top of solid bedrock surface to 2 ft below the toe of finished bedrock slope. Maintain the proper angle of drilling so that all presplit holes lie essentially in the same plane and are parallel to each other. Do not allow any hole to deviate more than ½ ft at any location in the plane of the specified slope line nor in its vertical alignment.
j.Rock Excavation – Fragmentation Blasting. Adjust the blasting operations according to the characteristics and structure of the rock formation to obtain the required slope without fracturing rock beyond the presplit face. ● Position fragmentation blast holes so that: ○ No portion of any blast hole 3 in. or less in diameter is within 4 ft of the designated presplit face ○ No portion of any blast hole greater than 3 in. in diameter is within 12 ft of the designated presplit face ● Inspect and test each hole for its entire depth to determine the presence of any obstruction before placing the charge. Do not allow any loading until the hole is clear of all obstructions for its entire depth. When placing the charge, prevent cave -in of material along the sidewall of the hole. ● Fill all space in each hole not occupied by the explosive charge with ⅜ -in. size clean stone chips. Do not use any other material or type of stemming. ● Ensure that blasting for presplitting precedes fragmentation blasting. ● Remove the blast rock and expose the presplit face so that the surfaces of slopes in rock cuts are free from all loose stone or shattered edges. ● Remove all unsuitable material, breakage, and slides, even if located beyond the payment lines.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-22 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT
k.Excavation of Unsuitable Materials . Where unsuitable soils are encountered within the excavated section and above the specified finished grade, suspend excavation to allow area measurements and survey of elevations across the exposed surface. Proceed with the excavation of unsuitable soils until either a change of excavation classification occurs or until the excavation reaches a stable base. If a change in classification occurs, obtain a second set of surveyed elevations. The Engineer will determine the required transverse spacing and station intervals of survey points in writing. Where excavation to the specified subgrade elevation results in a subgrade or slopes of unsuitable soil, remove the unsuitable materials and backfill and compact to the specified subgrade elevation with material approved by the Engineer in writing. Conduct operations to allow the Engineer to take the necessary cross sectional measurements before placing the backfill. Before placing any subbase, base, or pavement courses, remove all surplus excavated material including stumps, earth, rock, etc., and grade the shoulders, ditches, and slopes to the approximate final lines.
l.Muck Excavation. If the unsuitable material involved is muck, perform the excavation without entrapping muck within the backfill. Proceed with the backfilling of the excavation immediately after the muck excavation so that material that is displaced by the backfill can be removed . Backfill the excavation to the ground level or 3 ft above water level, whichever is higher, with rock or other suitable granular material selected from the roadway excavation. If suitable material is not available from the exc avation, obtain the material from other approved sources. Embankment Construction – General. Embankment construction is the placement and compaction of suitable earth and rock excavation materials or borrow material for roadways and associated ramps, dikes, and berms. Construction of embankment may continue during cold weather; however, remove frozen soils that cannot be used as fill for embankment. Do not place rocks, broken concrete, or other solid materials in embankment areas where piling, guardrail, electrical poles, conduits, etc., will be driven or placed.
a.Preparation of Foundation. After cleaning and removal of topsoil where necessary, notify the Engineer and prepare the embankment foundation as follows: ● Where embankment will be greater than 4 ft in height above existing ground, the Engineer will determine whether preparation of the foundation will be necessary. ● For embankment less than 4 ft in height above existing ground, break up the cleared ground surface to a minimum depth of 6 in. by plowing or scarifying. Compact the existing ground surface according to Subsection 202.03.3. ● Where unsuitable soils are present at the existing ground surface, excavate and replace unsuitable soils with excavation or approved borrow material, and compact according to Subsection 202.03.3. ● Where embankment is less than 2 ft in height above an existing road surface, scarify or pulverize the existing roadway to a depth of 6 in. below the pavement surface.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-23 Reduce all particles to a maximum size of 6 in. and produce a uniform material. Compact the roadway surface according to Subsection 202.03.3.
b.Roadway Embankment – Earth. Roadway embankments may consist of earth excavation, borrow material, or a combination. Do not place borrow material until all suitable and accessible materials from all structure, trench, and roadway excavations have been placed. ● Determine the suitability of the borrow material for use in embankment according to Subsection M01.01. ● Construct all roadway earth embankment sections in horizontal lifts not exceeding 15 in. (before compaction). C ompact as specified in Subsection 202.03.3 before the next lift is placed. ● Place each lift to the full width of the embankment section. If the full width of the embankment section cannot be placed at one time, step back the lifts at least the length of the lift thickness to allow for benching of the remaining fill. ● Uniformly compact the entire area of each lift to at least the required minimum density. ● Ensure that the moisture content of all roadway embankment materials at the time of compaction is suitable for the soil to meet the density as specified in Subsection 202.03.3. The moisture content cannot exceed 2.5 percent above the optimum moisture content as determined by AASHTO T180. If the compacted lift exhibit s instability as evidenced by pumping or rutting under equipment, insufficient moisture as evidenced by dusting, or excessive moisture or saturation, correct the deficiencies at no additional cost to the Department. ● If the natural , in-place moisture of the excavated material makes it impractical to compact the soil, dry the soil by effective means. If the soil does not meet the specified compaction, strip and replace the soil. ● Provide an embankment crown to shed runoff, and construct the side slopes to protect from soil erosion.
c.Roadway Embankment – Rock. For rock fragments or boulders used in embankment construction, reduce the segment size to a maximum dimension of 36 in. Ensure that the shape and proportion of the rock fragments and boulders allow their embedment into the top of the existing ground surface or the preceding embankment layer. Ensure that the rock fragments and boulders are embedded in the placement layer, which must not exceed 3 ft in depth. Individual boulders may be placed in the embankment. However, ensure that the boulders are not nested, and use methods and equipment to satisfactorily embed the boulders in soil lifts and to compact the adjacent fill. Level each layer and ensure that the interstices are filled with finer fragments and earth. Do not construct the rock lifts above an elevation 2 ft below the finished subgrade. Ensure
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-24 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT that the balance of the embankment is composed of suitable material compacted as specified.
d.Excess Materials. Place all excess or unsuitable excavated material, including rock and boulders, that cannot be used in embankments in a satisfactory manner on the side slopes of the nearest fill.
e.B enching Existing Embankments . When embankment will be placed and compacted against either an existing embankment or slope steeper than 4H:1V, cut horizontal benches into the existing slopes to a sufficient width to accommodate placing and compaction operations and equipment . B ench the slope as each embankment layer is placed and compacted. Ensure that each bench begins at the intersection of the original ground and the vertical cut of the previous bench. Benches may be cut to a maximum height of 3 ft. Place embankment layers and compact the embankment according to Subsection 202.03.3.
f.Embankment Against Structures. If embankment can be deposited on one side only of abutments, wing walls, piers , or culvert headwalls, ensure that the area immediately adjacent to the structure is not over compacted such that it will cause overturning of or excessive pressure against the structure. Where embankment will be placed on both sides of a concrete wall or box type structure, conduct the work operations to ensure that the embankment is always at approximately the same elevation on both sides of the structure. In addition, refer to Subsection 203.03.5.
g.E mbankment Below Prevailing Water Level. Backfilling and compact ing excavated muck areas below the prevailing water level may be performed until the excavated area is backfilled to an initial loose state level not more than 3 ft above the prevailing water level. Use rock to construct embankments to an elevation 3 ft above the free water surface at the time of filling, or use an approved free-draining granular material. Where placing 12- in. layers is impractical, the Engineer may allow the construction of embankment in one layer to the minimum elevation at which equipment can be operated. Above this elevation, construct the embankment as specified in Subsections 202.03.2b and 202.03.3.
h.Drainage Extension Embankment Detail. On projects that require the extension of existing drainage lines in excavation and embankment areas, maintain the flow of water throughout the construction process. Use the following method of construction up to a minimum height of 3 ft above the outside diameter of the pipe: ● Construct the embankment to an elevation equal to the invert elevation. ● Perform trench excavation in the compacted embankment for the placing of pipe bedding. The width of trench excavation is governed by the dimensions specified in SECTION 205. ● Place a layer of bedding material against the outside of the pipe. The width is governed by the horizontal pay limits of trench excavation. Out side of these limits,
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-25 place common borrow. Do not exceed a thickness of 8 in. for each fill layer, measured after compaction. ● The bedding material will extend to the height specified in Subsection 701.03.3. Compaction – General. Uniformly compact each lift to the specified density before the next lift is placed. Keep dumping and rolling areas separate from one another, and do no t cover a lift by another until the compaction requirements have been met. Route and distribute hauling and leveling equipment over each lift of the fill to make the best use of the compaction effort.
a.Densities. ● Determine maximum dry density and optimum moisture content by AASHTO T180. ● Determine field density of soil in place by either AASHTO T191 or a nuclear moisture density gauge conforming to AASHTO T310. ● Ensure that the method of correcting for oversize particles in soil compaction test results conforms to AASHTO T224. ● The method specification for compaction of soils , as described in this Subsection, Para. d, applies if an approved soil does not meet the parameters in AASHTO T180.
b.Compaction of Earth Embankment. ● Subgrade. Where the resulting subgrade surface is the bottom of an excavation (i.e., undisturbed existing ground), compact the subgrade surface to not less than 95 percent of the maximum dry density. When a nuclear density gauge is used, measure the in-place dry density by the direct transmission method according to AASHTO T 310 to a depth of 12 in. below the exposed surface. Correct the lift at no additional cost to the Department if the Engineer determines that the subgrade material is unstable or does not contain the proper moisture content. ● Embankment Sections. Where embankment sections are greater than 3 ft in height above existing ground, compact the earth in embankment sections below a plane 3 ft below subgrade to not less than 90 percent of maximum dry density . Compact t he remainder of the roadway section up to subgrade to 95 percent of maximum dry density. When a nuclear density gauge is used, measure the in-place dry density by the direct transmission method according to AASHTO T 310 to a depth of 12 in. below the exposed surface or equal to the height of the lift thickness, whichever is smaller.
c.C ompaction of Rock Embankment . Ensure that rock fill layers are sized, placed, and choked as described in Subsection 202.03.2(c).
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200-26 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT
d.Method Specification for Compaction of Soils. When an approved soil does not meet the parameters in AASHTO T180, describe the method of compaction in writing, which must be approved by the Engineer in writing. Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils. Health and Safety Plan. Submit to the Engineer, maintain, and implement a site specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP) that complies with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards as defined in 29 CFR 1910.120. Ensure that the necessary personal protective equipment is available as specified in the site specific Health and Safety Plan, and ensure access to an inventory of personal protective equipment if the level of personal protection equipment needs to be upgraded. During excavation, handling, hauling, unloading, and/or stockpiling, minimize odors by methods including the use of odor suppressant shell material, as necessary or as directed by the Engineer. Ensure that the Contractor's and Subcontractor's employees who will be potentially exposed to the subsurface soils in the RAWP have OSHA 40 -hour health and safety training and the eight - hour refresher training, if applicable. Provide training certificates to the Engineer for the individuals who will be performing the work. If visible dust is generated, determine the level of dermal and respiratory protection based on periodic air monitoring as performed by the Contractor and the requirements of the Project specific HASP. The Engineer may conduct duplicate air monitoring for quality assurance purposes. At a minimum, provide Level D personal protection for all on Project personnel. Applicable Laws and Regulations. Conduct the management of site security/access, excavation, removal, stockpiling, and transportation of unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous soil according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) regulations, the RIDEM approved RAWP and SMP, and in compliance with all applicable permits. Ensure that compliance with site security/access requirements, according to the SMP and applicable regulations, are maintained during all earthwork operations. Maintain a daily field/operating report during the earthwork activities according to the SMP and RAWP to include dates of earthwork activities, dates, and times of field sampling, soil management observations, and tracking related to stockpile generation and the documentation of lawful off -site disposition. Submit the report to the Engineer on a daily basis to document the operations associated with earthwork activities. Submit copies of the daily field/operating report to the Engineer on a monthly basis by the 15th of each month. In addition, provide fencing and erosion and pollution controls according to local, State, and Federal regulations and the Contract Documents.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-27 Methods. The Contractor may implement any effective and lawful method for handling, hauling, unloading, and/or stockpiling unclassified and contaminated soil encountered in the work area, if the required excavation has the approval of the Engineer. Assume all responsibility for the adequacy of the methods, materials, documentation, and equipment employed. Test all stockpiled soil before disposing at an industrial/commercial site. Security Fencing. Provide fencing with ingress/egress gates around all areas of construction, including all excavations, staging areas, and stockpiles to limit access by unauthorized persons and to protect the public. Include the use of existing or proposed chain link fencing or temporary barrier fencing. Use temporary barrier fencing where sufficient chain link fencing has not yet been placed or will not be placed to enclose an area to limit access. Install temporary barrier fence according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Maintain fencing until the appropriate pavement or a 2 -ft soil cover has been placed or a permanent fencing has been installed. Dust and Erosion. During excavation of unclassified and contaminated soil, use acceptable methods to control dust and sedimentation erosion. Install fencing and staked hay bales around excavations to minimize the effects of erosion and surface run-off as directed by the Engineer. Unclassified Excavated Soil. Ensure that all unclassified excavated soil within utility easements for installation of storm drain lines and associated structures is visually screened for environmental issues at point of excavation origin before placement in trucks and hauling to a tem porary stockpile for ultimate reuse as backfill at point of excavation origin. While engaged in unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous materials removal, the Engineer will provide an on- Project inspection. If the work violates the requirements of the Contract, the Engineer will issue a stop work order effective immediately and unt il the violation is resolved. Standby time and expenses required to resolve the violation will be at no additional cost to the Department. Stockpiles. Maintain and protect designated stockpiles from exiting damage with chain link fencing. At all temporary stockpile locations, maintain and protect from exiting damage with proposed chain link fencing (as applicable), or provide temporary barrier fencing before initiating the development of soil stockpiles. Before initiating the development of all soil stockpiles, furnish and install erosion control hay bales along the interior perimeter of the fencing. Use all required equipment to adequately place and maintain the stockpiles in a neat and orderly fashion within approved stockpile areas, volume, and buffer limitations. Place all stockpiled
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-28 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT unclassified and contaminated soil entirely on two layers of 12-mil polyethylene, and ensure that the soil is entirely covered with a 12- mil layer of polyethylene at the completion of each day. Overlap the polyethylene sheets with adjacent sheets by 4 ft minimum. If additional stockpile locations are required, the materials and setup required will be at no additional cost to the Department. Ensure that each stockpile location has been placed on and covered by the required polyethylene and that the fencing and erosion control hay bales are in place. Maintain site security/access, fencing, erosion control hay bales, and dust control as required by the Contract and Soil Management Plan at the stockpile locations and at all areas traveled for the stockpiling operation leading to and from the stockpile areas. Maintain the unclassified soil stockpile until the soil has been reused to backfill the excavation at the point of origin. Test, classify, and approve the excess unclassified stockpile soil for proper disposal off-site. See Subsection 202.02.3 for testing criteria. Maintain the contaminated soil stockpile until the soil has been tested and approved for proper disposal off-site. See Subsection 202.02.3 for testing criteria. Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment required to execute the required work that includes the supplies to be used to implement a contingency plan for unexpected conditions. After removal of stockpiled soils and upon completion of the use of the stockpile area(s), remove and dispose of the polyethylene sheeting, hay bales, and temporary barrier fencing, and restore the stockpile area(s) to a condition acceptable to the Engineer. Load, Haul, and Dispose of Contaminated Soils. If unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous soil will be stockpiled, place the soil on and cover with polyethylene sheeting, as described in the RAWP and SMP. Minimize odors during excavation, handling, loading, hauling, and/or disposal. For unclassified and contaminated soil excavation and handling, the Contractor may choose and implement any effective and lawful method for handling, loading, hauling, and/or disposal of unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous soil encountered in the work area, provided that the Contractor performs the required excavation subject to the approval of the Engineer. Control access, dust, and sedimentation erosion during excavation of unclassified, contaminated, or hazardous soil. Install fencing and staked hay bales around excavations to protect the public, limit site access, and minimize the effects of erosion and surface run-off. While engaged in unclassified, contamination, or hazardous materials removal, the Engineer may conduct an on-site inspection. If the work violates the requirements of the Contract, RIDOT will issue a stop work order effective immediately and until the violation is resolved. Standby time and expenses required to resolve the violation will be at no additional cost to the Department. For all excavated Type 1 or Type 2 soils proposed for reuse as common borrow, perform geotechnical, arsenic, and lead testing at the point of excavation origin before placing in trucks.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-29 Place soils that meet common borrow requirements into trucks, and haul to the project specific designated temporary stockpile location for reuse within the limits of the Project. For all excavated Type 1 and Type 2 soils that do not meet common borrow requirements, place the soils into trucks and haul to the project specific designated area for further characterization (before off Project disposal). Cover the soils with a 12-mil layer of polyethylene at the completion of each workday. For excavated Type 1 or Type 2 soils proposed for reuse as common borrow, perform geotechnical, arsenic, and lead testing at the point of excavation origin before placing in trucks. For soils meeting common borrow requirements, place the soils into trucks , and haul to an approved temporary stockpile location for reuse within the Project limits. For excavated Type 1 and Type 2 soils not meeting common borrow requirements, place the soils into trucks and, as applicable, haul to the project specific designated stockpile area for further characterization (before off Project disposal). Cover with a 12 -mil layer of polyethylene at the completion of each work day. For excavated Type 1 or Type 2 soils not proposed for reuse and Type 3, Type 4, or Type 5 soils, immediately place the soils into trucks, and haul directly to an off -Project recycling/disposal site, or haul to the project specific designated stockpile area for further characterization (before off Project disposal). Cover the soils with a 12- mil layer of polyethylene at the completion of each workday. Surround all temporary stockpile locations with fencing and erosion control. If necessary, select additional, temporary stockpile areas subject to the approval of the Engineer. Inspect the covers, fencing, and erosion control on a daily basis. If necessary, restore as needed to control dust and erosion. Reuse contaminated soil within the Project limits, or dispose the soil at an off -Project facility according to RIDEM regulations for recycling/disposal of the materials. Perform the on- project confirmatory testing and characterization testing of Types 2, 3, 4, or 5 soils for disposal. Do not dispose the material at any facility that currently maintains a listing as a State or Federal waste site. Perform imported soil testing. Conform to the applicable RIDEM requirements for handling, storage, transporting, and disposal of contaminated/hazardous waste material when handling and disposing of the materials. Submit the material testing data and any additional data to the receiving facility, to the Engineer, and to RIDEM before the removal and final disposal of contaminated material from the Project limits or an interim stockpile area. Where specifications, requirements, and reference documents vary, the more stringent requirements shall apply. Load, Haul, and Disposal of Other Waste. Separation of Contaminated Materials. Segregate the hazardous materials from non-hazardous materials to prevent contaminating larger quantities of material.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-30 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Regulatory Requirements. Perform all work to comply with RIDEM or other State, Federal, or local agency regulations pertaining to the proper testing, removal, containment, transporting, and disposal of known or suspected other waste, debris, or surplus materials resulting from the Project. The following documents are commonly required in the Contract for RIDOT Projects: • Rhode Island Rules and Regulations for the Investigation and Remediation of Hazardous Materials (the Remediation Regulations) (250-RICR-140-30-1) • Rhode Island Rules and Regulations for Hazardous Waste Management • Rhode Island Solid Waste Regulations • Rhode Island Oil Pollution Control Regulations • “Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response,” Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), 29 CFR 1910.120 • “General Regulations for Hazardous Waste Management,” USEPA, 40 CFR 260 • “Regulations for Identifying Hazardous Waste, Hazardous Waste Generators and Hazardous Waste Transporters,” EPA, 40 CFR 261, 262 and 263 • US Department of Transportation (USDOT) Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) • Safety and Health Regulations Promulgated by the US Department of Labor, OSHA, 29 CFR 1910 – Occupational Safety and Health Standards and 29 CFR 1926 – Safety and Health Regulations for Construction • USEPA Standard Operating Safety Guidelines – Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, Emergency Response Division • USEPA Medical Monitoring Program Guidelines Health and Safety. Health and safety measures must comply with SECTION 826. Conformance. While engaged in contaminated waste material transportation and disposal, the Engineer will provide on-site inspection. If the work violates any requirements of this or any other specification or violates any State, local, or Federal regulation, the Engineer may issue a stop work order effective immediately and until the violation is resolved. Standby time and expenses required to resolve the violation will be at no additional cost to the Department. The disposal of waste or other material that becomes contaminated as a result of careless handling or use of unauthorized procedures by the Contractor or its employees/subcontractors will be at no additional cost to the Department.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-31 Contaminated Waste Transportation and Disposal. Obtain all necessary permits, manifests, shipping papers, bills of lading, and acceptance approvals in conjunction with contaminated hazardous material/waste and/or solid waste removal, hauling, transportation, and disposal. Provide timely notification of the actions as required by applicable Federal, State, and/or local authorities. Transport all contaminated waste to an off-site recycling or disposal facility according to applicable local, State, and Federal regulations governing the transportation, recycling, and disposal of the waste.
202.04 Method of Measurement.
Excavation – General. The quantities of all types of excavation will be measured in the cubic yards as surveyed or calculated. Two sets of cross sections will be taken over the area to be excavated ― one for the area in its original position and one after completion of the excavation. Intermediate sets of cross sections may be taken for progress payments. The cross sections will be taken at intervals by field survey techniques. If the final set of cross sections demonstrate unauthorized excavation below the specified subgrade, the excess excavation will not be measured for payment. Replace and compact the excess excavation by suitable excavation or borrow material, at no additional cost to the Department. The final set of cross sections may include an amount for overbreakage or slides that, in the judgment of the Engineer, were not caused by the Contractor’s carelessness. The cross sections will be plotted and the volume determined by either the average end- area method or other equivalent method.
a.Earth Excavation. Earth excavation will be measured by the cubic yard as calculated by determining the difference between the area excavated and its original position before the earth excavation to its position when: ● A change in classification of excavation has occurred, or ● The specified subgrade elevation has been reached, or ● The approved limits of excavation of unsuitable soils below specified subgrade elevation or behind the specified side slopes are reached, or ● The approved limits of excavation of unsuitable soils under shallow embankment have been reached.
b.Presplit Bedrock. Presplitting of bedrock will be measured by the number of square yards of presplit rock face along the alignment at the required inclination. Rock Excavation in presplit areas will be measured to the presplit face or specified limits, whichever is less.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-32 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Overbreakage from blasting will not be measured for payment. Remove as directed at no additional cost to the Department.
c.Rock Excavation and Rock Excavation – Mechanical. When rock surface occurs above the specified grade of bottom of excavation, notify the Engineer so that determinations of the initial surface elevation and area of rock exposure can be made for the preparation of cross sections for measurement. Cross sections for rock excavation measurement will be prepared at a maximum spacing of one -half stations (50 ft). At the completion of rock excavation and clearing of loose fragments, a second set of elevations will be determined for the excavated and cleared rock surface. The volume of Rock Excavation and Rock Excavation – Mechanical measured for payment will be calculated from the difference between the cross -sectional surface elevations, using the average end-area method or other equivalent method. Volume calculated for payment will include overbreakage of up to 12 in. below the specified bottom of excavation in rock as described in Subsection 202.03.1(a). If the cross sections indicate bottom overbreakage and excavation exceeding the 12- in. allowance, the Contractor will not be paid for rock excavation exceeding the overbreakage allowance. Provide, place, and compact fill and/or borrow required to replace the excess overbreakage at no additional cost to the Department. Except for presplit areas, measurement for payment for Rock Excavation or Rock Excavation – Mechanical will include an allowance for overbreakage along rock side slopes to an amount not to exceed, in any half -station of 50 ft, 10 percent of the actual quantity of rock excavation measured and calculated for that half-station. Rock side slope overbreakage in excess of the allowance will not be included for payment. Remove the excess at no additional cost to the Department. This Subsection 202.04.1(c) also applies to Channel Rock Excavation and Channel Rock Excavation – Mechanical. Embankments. When embankments are constructed with material obtained from sources other than excavation, embankment will be measured by the number of cubic yards of material placed and compacted within the limits of the specified embankment section. The in-place volume will be calculated by the difference between cross sections taken along the original ground and those taken along the top of the completed embankment. The two sets of cross sections will be plotted and the volume determined by either the average end-area method or other approved method. All boulders and detached stones that have a volume in excess of 1 cu yd and that the Contractor desires to incorporate into embankment construction must first be broken up into fragments with volumes of 1 cu yd or less. There will be no additional payment for breaking up such boulders and stones. When the Contract does not specifically provide for payment for embankment , or when embankments are constructed with material obtained solely from excavation, embankment
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-33 construction will not be measured or paid for separately and will be considered incidental to the various classifications of excavation. However, when embankment is constructed from excavation material and there is required borrow material to complete the embankment, this borrow material will be measured for payment. Appurtenances, structures, pipes, and drainage structures less than 50 cu yd in volume will not be deducted from embankment volumes for measurement of embankment or measurement of borrow for embankment. If the Contractor places more borrow than is required and thereby causes a waste of excavation, the waste will be deducted from the borrow volume as measured. Borrow. Common Borrow, Gravel Borrow, or other borrow approved for use to replace unsuitable materials removed by excavation or to construct embankment will be measured by the cubic yard as in- place and compacted. This volume will be determined by the difference in areas using cross sections as described in Subsection 202.04.1. Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils. This item will be measured for payment by the ton. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Load, Haul, and Dispose Soil, Type 1. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil loaded, hauled, and disposed. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 2. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil loaded and hauled. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 2. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil disposed. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-34 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 3. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil loaded and hauled. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 3. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil disposed. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 4. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil loaded and hauled. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 4. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil disposed. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer. Load, Haul, and Dispose Of Contaminated Soil, Type 5. This item will be measured for payment by the actual cost, verified by the Force Account records, for the facility profiling, loading, transporting, and disposing, and by Invoices from the disposal facility per soil type. Load, Haul, and Disposal of Other Waste. Load, Haul, and Disposal of Other Waste will be measured for payment by the tons of the removed, handled, and disposed waste. The number of tons will be determined from weight slips generated by a certified scale at the receiving facility or at a location approved by the Engineer.
202.05 Basis of Payment.
The Department will pay for the completed and accepted quantities at the Contract unit prices as follows.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-35 Pay Item Pay Unit Earth Excavation CY Rock Excavation CY Rock Excavation – Mechanical CY Muck Excavation CY Channel Excavation – Earth CY Channel Excavation – Rock CY Channel Excavation – Rock Mechanical CY Loam Excavation CY Unclassified Excavation CY Presplitting Bedrock SY Common Borrow CY Gravel Borrow CY Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils TON Load, Haul, and Dispose Soil, Type 1 TON Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 2 TON Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 2 TON Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 3 TON Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 3 TON Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 4 TON Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 4 TON Load, Haul, and Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 5 Force Account Load, Haul, and Disposal of Other Waste TON Payment at the Contract unit prices is full compensation for all resources, labor, materials, equipment, and incidentals required to finish the work according to the Contract, complete and accepted. Excavation. Grading, compaction, and disposal of surplus material is incidental to this work and no separate payment will be made. Rock removal in excess of 12 in. below subgrade will not be paid for but will be measured to determine excess backfill volume. The volume will be deducted from that backfill measured for
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
200-36 SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT payment. Perform all backfilling in excess of the 12 -in. depth at no additional cost to the Department. No payment will be made for additional excavation quantities caused by the offsetting of presplitting holes beyond the specified face in the top or successive stages. Compensation for haul ing earthwork materials within the Project limits will not be paid for separately but will be included in the Contract unit prices for the items. Borrow. Common Borrow and/or Gravel Borrow will be paid for at their Contract unit prices per cubic yard, if in the Contract for embankment construction or if approved for replacement of unsuitable soils in excavation or under shallow embankment. Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils. The accepted quantities of Handling, Hauling, and Stockpile Management of Contaminated Soils and Unclassified Soils will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. Load, Haul, and Dispose Soil, Type 1. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 2. This item will be measured for payment by the tons of soil loaded and hauled. Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 2. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. If the actual cost paid to the disposal facility for disposing this material is different than the only acceptable bid price, the price paid per ton for this item will be adjusted (higher or lower) by that difference in Dollars/Ton. Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 3. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 3. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. If the actual cost paid to the disposal facility for disposing this material is different than the only acceptable bid price, the price paid per ton for this item will be adjusted (higher or lower) by that difference in Dollars/Ton. Load and Haul Contaminated Soil, Type 4. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton.
Part 200 — Earthwork and Erosion Control August 2025
SECTION 202 — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT 200-37 Disposal of Contaminated Soil, Type 4. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. If the actual cost paid to the disposal facility for disposing this material is different than the only acceptable bid price, the price paid per ton for this item will be adjusted (higher or lower) by that difference in Dollars/Ton. Load, Haul, and Dispose of Contaminated Soil, Type 5. This item will be measured for payment by the actual cost, verified by the force account records for the facility profiling, loading, transporting, and disposing, and the Invoices from the disposal facility per soil type referenced herein. Load, Haul, and Dispose of Other Waste. This item will be paid for at the Contract unit price per ton. If the actual cost paid to the disposal facility for disposing this material is different than the only acceptable bid price, the price paid per ton for this item will be adjusted (higher or lower) by that difference in Dollars/Ton.
Referenced in this section
Excavation and Embankment in other states
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Source: Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction (Blue Book), 2022 (Aug 2025 compilation) Edition. Pages 140–163 of 951. View official source ↗