What is the term used for the dimension from the vertical hole to the face of the shear in excavation?

The dimension from the vertical hole to the face of the shear in excavation is referred to as "burden." This term is commonly used in the context of blasting and excavation operations to describe the distance from the point of drilling or blasting to the rock face that is to be broken or removed. Understanding the concept of burden is crucial for calculating the amount of explosives required, ensuring the efficiency of the operation, and maintaining safety standards.

While terms like footing, clearing, and depth are relevant in excavation and construction, they refer to different aspects. For example, "footing" pertains to the structural base of a foundation, "clearing" is related to the removal of vegetation and debris from the site, and "depth" is a general term that could refer to how deep an excavation goes, but does not specify the relationship to the face of the shear. Thus, "burden" is the most accurate term for the specified measurement in this question.