A crucial step towards enhancing building safety
In a significant regulatory step aimed at protecting lives and property, the Saudi Building Code Center has issued a draft technical guide for the application of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems in buildings. The new guide imposes a set of stringent engineering and safety requirements, clearly identifies 19 major violations, and emphasizes that the Saudi Building Code is the ultimate authority in this sector to ensure the highest safety standards.
General context: From haphazard practices to institutional organization
These new regulations come within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts, stemming from Vision 2030, to enhance the quality of life and improve safety standards in the built environment. The use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in residential and commercial buildings has long posed a challenge due to the lack of standardized procedures and haphazard practices in installation and storage, which have led to tragic accidents in the past. The technical guide aims to put an end to these practices and establish a professional framework that ensures the safety of everyone, from the design phase through to operation and routine maintenance.
Key violations and new technical requirements
The center warned against dangerous and common practices, classified as clear violations that require firm action, most notably:
- Preventing disastrous practices: Prohibiting the heating of gas tanks with hot water to increase flow, a dangerous and haphazard practice, while emphasizing the use of safe and purpose-built vaporizers.
- Equipment quality: Criminalizing the use of old tanks or tanks that have not undergone approved rehabilitation processes, and specifying the number of tanks allowed at each site.
- Mandatory maintenance: The absence of periodic maintenance contracts with specialized companies, and the lack of fire extinguishing systems, are considered direct violations.
- Materials and Installations: The use of connections and pipes not specifically designed for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is prohibited. Furthermore, the installation of pipes under building foundations, within hollow walls, and in elevator shafts is strictly forbidden.
- Pipe specifications: The use of polyethylene pipes is prohibited inside buildings, and the operating pressure for copper pipes is restricted to a maximum of 7.5 kPa.
Advanced technology to mitigate risks
The guidelines also emphasized the importance of technology in accident prevention, mandating the installation of advanced gas leak detection systems. These systems must trigger an early audible and visual alarm when the gas concentration reaches 15% of the minimum flammable limit (LEL). If the concentration reaches 30%, the system must automatically activate the electric shut-off valve to immediately cut off the gas supply and prevent a disaster.
Expected impact: safety and sustainability
These requirements are expected to have a broad and positive impact locally. They not only raise safety standards in residential and commercial buildings but also contribute to regulating the gas services sector and clearly defining responsibilities among suppliers, consultants, and contractors. Furthermore, requiring all parties to obtain comprehensive insurance provides a financial and legal safety net for the end user. Regionally, this step solidifies the Kingdom's position as a leading model in implementing best-in-class building safety standards, which may encourage neighboring countries to adopt similar systems in line with established international standards.
