Saudi Arabia issues new regulations for use of tower cranes

Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense Department (CDD) has issued a new set of regulations for construction companies that operate tower cranes.

The new rules direct companies to get soil tested from a specialized laboratory before operating heavy machinery, the CDD said in a statement carried by state news. The test should explore the effects of the crane’s movement on the ground, as well as aerodynamic impact at times of strong winds.

Companies are also required to submit certificates for the tests, indicating the ground’s capability to hold heavy loads.

On September 11, a crane collapsed on the Grand Mosque in Makkah, killing more than 100 pilgrims.

The CDD has asked the contractors to take protective measures to avoid similar accidents in the future. It added that contractors must also check the wind speed before starting work.