Saudi Arabia’s SHC 305: Work Zone Design and Traffic Control Guidelines

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Saudi Arabia’s growing highway infrastructure requires efficient traffic management in work zones to ensure safety, mobility, and minimal disruption. The Saudi Highway Code (SHC) 305 provides detailed guidance on the design, planning, and execution of work zones, outlining best practices for traffic control, signage, lane closures, pedestrian safety, and temporary speed limits.

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This guide plays a crucial role in reducing accidents, ensuring worker protection, and maintaining smooth traffic flow on Saudi roads. In this blog, we’ll explore the key principles of SHC 305 and how they contribute to work zone safety and efficiency.

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Understanding Work Zone Design

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A work zone refers to any temporary traffic management area where construction, maintenance, or utility work is being carried out on highways or roads. Properly designed work zones minimize hazards and ensure safe passage for drivers, workers, and pedestrians.

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Objectives of SHC 305

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✔ Enhancing road safety for both workers and drivers.
✔ Minimizing traffic disruptions and improving flow efficiency.
✔ Providing clear and visible traffic control measures.
✔ Ensuring compliance with Saudi traffic laws and international best practices.
✔ Reducing accident risks through structured work zone layouts and speed management.

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Key Elements of Work Zone Traffic Management

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1. Temporary Traffic Signs and Road Markings

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✔ Warning Signs – Alert drivers to upcoming work zones and potential hazards.
✔ Regulatory Signs – Indicate speed limits, lane closures, and detour instructions.
✔ Informational Signs – Provide guidance on alternative routes and expected delays.
✔ Reflective Markings – Enhance visibility, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.

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SHC 305 mandates the use of illuminated or retro-reflective signs to improve night-time and low-light visibility.

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2. Lane Closures and Temporary Speed Limits

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✔ Gradual lane closures are required to avoid sudden traffic congestion.
✔ Taper lengths and buffer zones are calculated based on speed limits and road conditions.
✔ Temporary speed limits are enforced using radar, signage, and electronic message boards.
✔ Lane width adjustments ensure vehicles can pass safely without excessive delays.

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Example:
A 100 km/h highway undergoing maintenance may require a gradual speed reduction to 60 km/h, with clear signage and warning signals placed in advance.

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3. Traffic Control Measures

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✔ Traffic Cones & Barriers – Used to guide traffic and prevent entry into hazardous zones.
✔ Automated Flagging Devices – Improve traffic control in high-risk areas.
✔ Pilot Cars & Escort Vehicles – Direct vehicles safely through complex work zones.
✔ Flashing Warning Lights & Beacons – Alert drivers from a distance, reducing sudden stops.

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Traffic Diversion Plans (TDPs) are essential for maintaining smooth vehicle movement in urban and highway work zones.

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4. Pedestrian and Worker Safety in Work Zones

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✔ Dedicated pedestrian pathways are provided for safe crossings.
✔ Protective barriers shield workers from high-speed traffic.
✔ High-visibility safety gear is mandatory for all personnel.
✔ Emergency access points are designated for quick response in case of accidents.

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In high-risk work zones, additional buffer zones separate workers from active traffic lanes, reducing collision risks.

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Implementation and Compliance in Saudi Arabia

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Approval Process for Work Zone Design

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1️⃣ Traffic Diversion Plan (TDP) Submission – Work zone layouts are designed and reviewed.
2️⃣ Consultation with Authorities – Approval from Saudi transportation agencies is required.
3️⃣ Implementation and Monitoring – Continuous inspection ensures compliance with SHC 305.
4️⃣ Post-Construction Evaluation – Road safety audits help refine future work zone designs.

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Regulatory Authorities Involved

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🔹 Roads General Authority (RGA)
🔹 Municipalities and Industrial City Authorities
🔹 Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) Traffic Police
🔹 Contractors and Public Utility Companies

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SHC 305 ensures that all stakeholders follow a standardized approach to work zone traffic management.

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Conclusion

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The SHC 305 Work Zone Design Guide is an essential framework for ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance in Saudi Arabia’s highway work zones. By implementing clear traffic control strategies, structured lane closures, and pedestrian protections, the guide significantly reduces traffic congestion and accident risks.

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With Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in infrastructure development, adopting best practices from SHC 305 will help create a safer, more efficient roadway system for all users.

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