Abstract: The surcharge load acting on the crown of the slopes is one of the important trigger factors of the slope failures. A comparative slope study is performed with different intensity of the surcharge loads, different locations and loading length by using software GeoSlope. The results indicate that a stable slope can be obtained if the loads with different intensities are at least 5 meters away from the edge the top of slope. The factor of safety for the slope stability will reduce rapidly if the surcharge load is within 5 meters to the edge. Larger load results in a larger factor of safety reduction. Under the same load intensity, the length of the load has an insignificant impact on the slope stability. This 5 meter safety distance can serve a preliminary guide line for the fill embankment operation, temporary stocking construction materials and new structures near the slope.

Key words: Surcharge Loads, Slope Stability, GeoStudio Software, Factor of Safety