Cutting steps into a dirt slope is one of the trickiest terrain tasks you can ask your crew to execute. There are no right or wrong ways, but be sure to have a safety plan in place and trust your workers when executing cuts like this. Cutting steps into a hillside is no easy task. You’re basically excavating a hillside on an incline. It’s safer and easier to excavate the ground from top to bottom instead of up and down, which is why it’s best to avoid doing that as much as possible. Due to the natural properties of every dirt slope, cutting steps into it can be quite challenging and dangerous if not done properly. Here are some tips and tricks for how you can safely cut steps into a dirt slope:
How To Cut Steps Into A Dirt Slope?
- A dirt slope can be cut into by using a bulldozer or a small excavator.
- It is best to use the bulldozer because it can move the earth much faster than an excavator.
- The bulldozer could be operated by hand, but it is not so easy to operate a large machine in tight spaces.
- The bulldozer would not work if you want to cut a long line, so it makes sense to use an excavator for this task.
- If you need to cut a long line, you should consider using two bulldozers or two excavators working together at the same time and alternating their tasks as needed for the efficient operation of the machines.
- It is best to use a bulldozer to cut a straight line, but you can use an excavator to cut a curved line.
- If you need to cut a long line, it is best to use two bulldozers working together at the same time and alternating their tasks as needed for the efficient operation of the machines.
- The bulldozer would not work if you want to cut a long line, so it makes sense to use an excavator for this task.
- The dirt slope is difficult because it is hard for small machines such as the excavator to move the earth in narrow spaces and deep holes, but with large machines such as the bulldozer, this job becomes much easier and more efficient.
- If you need to cut a long line, it is best to use two bulldozers working together at the same time and alternating their tasks as needed for the efficient operation of the machines.
- It is best to use two bulldozers working together at the same time and alternating their tasks as needed for the efficient operation of the machines.
- The bulldozer would not work if you want to cut a long line, so it makes sense to use an excavator for this task.
Other Few Ways To Cut Steps Into A Dirt Slope
Always have your workers use ropes and harnesses
This is the most important part of safely cutting steps into a hillside. Always have your workers use a full-body harness with a safety rope attached to the backside of the slope. This is a “self-retrieval system,” meaning if someone were to fall, they would be able to use the rope to both stops themselves and climb back up to the top. Be sure to set up a safety line with a minimum of three anchors securing the rope at all times. The last thing you want is for someone to fall and create a chain reaction pulling a colleague down with them.
Use a pick-ax when excavating the bottom of the step
If you are cutting your steps from top to bottom, you’ll need to excavate the dirt away from the ground to create the step. A pick-ax is best for this part of the cut. It’s also recommended that you have two people working together on this part of the process. The person with the ax can stand on the ground and hold the ax down, while the other person stands in the hole created and pulls the dirt out away from the step. Be sure to keep an eye out for rocks and roots while excavating this part of the cut.
Always use a shovel to dig from the top down
When digging from the top down, you’ll want to use a shovel to carefully cut away at the dirt above the step. You don’t want to dig too deep, so be sure to take your time with this part of the process. The best way to do this is to climb into the step you’re digging and squat down. From there, you can place the shovel in the dirt above you and carefully cut away at it.
Mark your cuts before you begin
Before you begin cutting any steps into a hillside, be sure to mark off where you want your steps to start and end. This will make the process much more clear and ensure that your cuts are even and consistent throughout the hillside. Use string, rope, or flags to mark your cuts.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
As the supervisor of the job, you should always be on the ground with your crew. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, ask your workers. There is no shame in asking questions or seeking help when you need it. You’re there to lead and guide the workers, not do their job for them. Once your steps are cut, be sure to board them up and secure them with plywood or planks to keep them from caving in. Be sure to do a thorough inspection of the steps once they’re in place and make sure they’re safe to walk on before allowing your workers to use them. Cutting steps into a hillside is a tricky task that requires precision and patience. With the right tools and approach, you can be sure your workers are safe while completing this job.
Conclusion
I hope that this article has given you a better understanding of how to safely cut steps into a hillside. I’ve provided some helpful tips on planning your cuts and safety precautions, so make sure to use them to your advantage. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave me a comment below!
