Saudi Arabia’s SHC 306: Standards for Public Utilities, Lighting, and Control Devices

‍

Efficient highway utilities, lighting, and control systems are essential for maintaining safe and well-functioning road networks in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Highway Code (SHC) 306 – Utilities and Lighting establishes standards for public utilities, highway and street lighting, and traffic control devices to ensure sustainable and well-integrated infrastructure.

‍

This guide covers the design, installation, and maintenance of essential road facilities, ensuring that urban and rural roads meet modern safety, environmental, and operational standards. In this blog, we explore the key components, regulations, and benefits of SHC 306.

‍

‍

1. Public Utilities in Highway Design

‍

The integration of public utilities within road corridors requires careful planning to avoid disruptions, safety hazards, and environmental impacts. SHC 306 provides guidelines for:

‍

Key Utility Considerations

‍

✔ Water Supply and Drainage Systems – Ensuring proper placement of pipelines to prevent contamination and structural damage.
✔ Gas and Oil Pipelines – Guidelines for safe installation and maintenance to avoid potential hazards near roadways.
✔ Electrical and Communication Lines – Proper routing to maintain connectivity and minimize visual clutter.

‍

Utility Corridor Planning & Safety Measures

‍

✔ Separate utility corridors for underground and overhead services.
✔ Buffer zones to prevent conflicts between different utilities.
✔ Emergency access provisions for maintenance and repairs.

‍

SHC 306 emphasizes the use of standardized materials and safety protocols to ensure the long-term functionality of utility networks.

‍

2. Highway and Street Lighting Standards

‍

Proper lighting plays a crucial role in road safety and energy efficiency. SHC 306 outlines comprehensive lighting design criteria for different road types, including urban streets, highways, intersections, and tunnels.

‍

Key Aspects of Road Lighting Design

‍

✔ Visibility & Safety – Reducing accidents by ensuring proper luminance and uniformity.
✔ Energy Efficiency – Adoption of LED lighting and solar-powered solutions to reduce energy consumption.
✔ Environmental Considerations – Minimizing light pollution and impact on wildlife habitats.

‍

Lighting Design Specifications

‍

📌 Pole Placement & Spacing – Optimized to provide consistent illumination without excessive glare.
📌 Tunnel & Underpass Lighting – High-luminance systems to enhance driver visibility.
📌 Smart Lighting Controls – Automated dimming and monitoring systems for energy conservation.

‍

Modern lighting solutions such as solar-powered streetlights are increasingly recommended to enhance sustainability and reduce operational costs.

‍

3. Traffic Control & Monitoring Systems

‍

SHC 306 establishes standards for advanced traffic control devices, including signals, sensors, and electronic signs that improve road safety and efficiency.

‍

Traffic Signal Design & Implementation

‍

✔ Adaptive Traffic Signals – AI-powered systems that adjust timing based on real-time traffic conditions.
✔ Pedestrian Safety Signals – Dedicated crossings with timing adjustments for disabled users.
✔ Interchange & Intersection Signalization – Ensuring smooth traffic flow and reduced congestion.

‍

Electronic Signage & Monitoring Systems

‍

📌 Variable Message Signs (VMS) – Providing real-time traffic updates and speed limits.
📌 License Plate Recognition (LPR) Systems – Enhancing traffic enforcement.
📌 Automatic Incident Detection (AID) – AI-driven cameras detecting crashes and obstructions.

‍

These technologies contribute to smart city development, improving traffic efficiency and law enforcement in Saudi Arabia.

‍

4. Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

‍

SHC 306 incorporates sustainable design principles to minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly infrastructure.

‍

Sustainability Measures in Road Utilities & Lighting

‍

✔ Use of solar-powered streetlights to reduce electricity consumption.
✔ Low-impact drainage systems to prevent water pollution and flooding.
✔ Dark Sky Compliance to minimize light pollution affecting wildlife and urban areas.

‍

These initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for sustainable urban development and smart infrastructure.

‍

Conclusion

‍

The SHC 306 standards for public utilities, lighting, and control devices provide a structured framework for designing, implementing, and maintaining highway infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. By following these guidelines, engineers, urban planners, and policymakers can enhance road safety, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

‍

As Saudi Arabia moves towards smart and sustainable transportation, the SHC 306 guide plays a vital role in shaping the future of its road networks.

‍

RoadVision AI is transforming infrastructure development and maintenance by harnessing artificial intelligence and computer vision AI to revolutionize road safety and management. By leveraging advanced computer vision artificial intelligence and digital twin technology, the platform enables the early detection of potholes, cracks, and other road surface issues, ensuring timely repairs and better road conditions. With a mission to build smarter, safer, and more sustainable roads, RoadVision AI tackles challenges like traffic congestion and ensures full compliance with IRC Codes. By empowering engineers and stakeholders with data-driven insights, the platform reduces costs, minimizes risks, and enhances the overall transportation experience.