Which Design Standard drawing number sets forth removal of organic material requirements?

• A. Design Standard 450
• B. Design Standard 510
• C. Design Standard 530
• D. Design Standard 500

Answer: (D)

Removing organic material is a crucial step in preparing the ground for construction. Organic materials like topsoil and peat weaken soils, absorb moisture, and can decompose over time, leading to settlement and instability under loads. Because of this, standards specify how to identify and remove organic matter so the subgrade has a stable, bearing-capable layer.

The Design Standard that addresses removal of organic material is the 500 series. This group covers earthwork preparation and related subgrade requirements, including how deep to remove organic material and how to verify the remaining material meets the spec. That makes it the most relevant standard for this topic.

The other design standard numbers cover different aspects of earthwork or site design and do not specifically prescribe the removal of organic material, so they aren’t the right reference for this requirement.