Saudi Arabia’s SHC 310: Design Specifications for Bridges and Tunnels

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The Saudi Highway Code (SHC) 310 – Bridges and Tunnels Design provides comprehensive guidelines for the planning, design, and construction of bridges and tunnels in Saudi Arabia. These standards ensure the structural integrity, safety, and longevity of infrastructure projects while aligning with AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th Edition, 2020)​.

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This guide addresses location features, design objectives, material specifications, structural analysis, load considerations, and environmental impact assessments for bridges and tunnels.

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1. General Design Guidelines

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1.1 Route Location and Bridge Site Arrangement

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✔ Engineering, economic, social, and environmental factors determine bridge locations.
✔ Future expansion plans, traffic flow, and terrain conditions must be considered.
✔ Alignment should accommodate future mass transit facilities in urban areas.

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1.2 Surveying and Mapping

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✔ Surveys should follow SHC 202 (Surveying and Mapping) for precision.
✔ Topographic studies assess site stability and soil conditions before construction.

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1.3 Traffic Safety and Control

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✔ Traffic operation studies comply with SHC 601 (Traffic Engineering).
✔ Safety barriers must align with SHC 304 (Passive Safety Systems Design).
✔ Hazardous materials transport within tunnels must follow SHC 603 (Road Safety)​.

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2. Bridge Design Considerations

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2.1 Structural Design Objectives

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✔ Safety: Designs must meet load-bearing and seismic resilience standards.
✔ Serviceability: High-quality materials ensure long-term durability.
✔ Constructability: Efficient construction processes minimize time and cost.
✔ Economic Viability: Materials and design should be cost-effective and maintainable​.

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2.2 Load Considerations

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✔ Dead Loads: Weight of structural components, utilities, and finishes.
✔ Live Loads: Traffic loads based on AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications.
✔ Wind & Seismic Loads: Considered per Saudi Building Code (SBC) 301.
✔ Temperature Effects: Expansion joints accommodate thermal fluctuations​.

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2.3 Hydrology and Drainage

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✔ Bridge sites must be hydrologically assessed to prevent flooding.
✔ Drainage systems must be designed according to SHC 302 (Hydrology and Hydraulic Design).

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3. Tunnel Design and Structural Integrity

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3.1 Tunnel Design Considerations

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✔ Cut-and-Cover Tunnels: Suitable for urban and shallow-depth applications.
✔ Bored Tunnels: Used for deep underground projects to minimize surface disruption.
✔ Immersed Tunnels: Built underwater for coastal and river crossings​.

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3.2 Load and Safety Considerations

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✔ Seismic Effects: Designed per Saudi Building Code (SBC) 301.
✔ Ventilation & Fire Safety: Essential for emergency response and air quality.
✔ Traffic Control Measures: Signage, lighting, and escape routes must comply with SHC 602 (Traffic Control Devices)​.

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4. Environmental and Sustainability Measures

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✔ Eco-Friendly Materials: Use of low-carbon concrete and recycled aggregates.
✔ Water Management: Designs integrate stormwater drainage and flood prevention.
✔ Noise & Air Pollution Reduction: Implement sound barriers and ventilation systems.

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Conclusion

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The SHC 310 – Bridges and Tunnels Design is a crucial standard that ensures safe, resilient, and cost-effective infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. By adhering to these comprehensive engineering guidelines, the Kingdom continues to develop world-class transportation networks that support economic growth and public safety.

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