Use the following data to analyze global stability of a slope:

For global stability of a slope, a minimum factor of safety of 1.3 is required for both the long-term drained condition and the short-term undrained condition. Make the factor of safety 1.5 or greater for slope or walls that support abutment, buildings, critical utilities, or for other installations with a low tolerance for failure.

Experience has shown that most exposed side slope failures begin as shallow slides and then deepen with time. The following table was developed to determine the recommended upper limit on the Plasticity Index for various slope conditions to maintain a factor of safety of 1.3 for the long term or drained soil conditions using an infinite slope analysis accounting for seepage of water parallel to face of slope without the effect of surcharge loading on the surface.