Factor of safety

[downunder73]

Why is the factor of safety against a retaining wall overturning greater than the safety factor against sliding?

 

[hokie66]

I think the most common design safety factor used for retaining wall stability is 1.5, both for overturning and sliding. What is the basis of your question?

 

[darthsoilsguy2]

i thought 2.0 for overturn and 1.5 for sliding was the most typical. i hadn't ever thought about why before... and don't have a wild speculation to offer yet .... maybe next month or after a few more beers.

 

[Ron]

Stress distribution and resulting failure...

There is a potential for more stress distribution in sliding. Further, overturning is usually a "catastrophic" event, whereas sliding is generally not.