About this tool Calculate the factor of safety as the ratio of resisting forces (or capacity) to driving forces (or applied load). Select the analysis mode to get context-specific labels and typical minimum FoS values.
Six modes are available: general, bearing capacity, slope stability, overturning, sliding, and uplift. Each shows the appropriate typical minimum FoS from Eurocode 7 and traditional practice.
The result is colour-coded: red for FoS < 1.0 (failure), amber for below the typical minimum, and green for adequate.
How to use this tool 1. Select the analysis mode — this sets the labels and typical minimum FoS.
2. Enter the resisting and driving values — forces, moments, or pressures depending on the mode.
3. Read the FoS and adequacy assessment — compare against the typical minimum for your application.
Technical information FoS = Resisting / Driving
Typical minimums: bearing capacity 2.5–3.0, permanent slopes 1.3–1.5, temporary slopes 1.1–1.3, overturning 2.0, sliding 1.5, uplift 1.5.
Limitations The factor of safety approach is a simplified global check. Modern design codes (Eurocode 7) use partial factors on actions and material properties rather than a single global FoS.
Typical minimum values are indicative. The required FoS depends on consequence class, uncertainty in ground conditions, and project-specific requirements.
Revision history 1 February 2026: Initial release
Disclaimer This tool is provided for educational and general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional engineering advice, design or verification.
Diggy and its contributors are not licensed engineering consultants and no results generated by this tool should be used directly for construction, design or safety-critical decisions.
All values and outputs are based on published empirical correlations and should be independently checked and confirmed by a qualified geotechnical engineer before use.
By using this tool, you accept full responsibility for how you interpret and apply the information provided.
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