SAEHC-S-12

PLACES OF EMPLOYMENT
 Places of Employment, SAEHC-S-12

SAEHC-S-12

PLACES OF EMPLOYMENT

This Section prescribes the public health requirements and specifications necessary to the maintenance of a
sanitary, and healthy workplace. NOTE: All sub-sections should be read in conjunction with the appropriate
referenced documents listed at the end of this Section.

DEFINITIONS:

Back siphonage: The flowing back of used, contaminated or polluted water from a plumbing fixture or vessel into
a water supply pipe due to negative pressure in that pipe.

Backflow Prevention Assembly: A device or means designed to prevent backflow or backsiphonage. Most
commonly categorized as air gap, reduced pressure principle device, double check valve assembly, pressure
vacuum breaker, atmospheric vacuum breaker, hose bibb vacuum breaker, residential dual check, double check
with intermediate atmospheric vent, and barometric loop.

Blow down/Bleed: water discharged from the system to control the concentration of salts or other impurities in the
circulating water, usually expressed as a percentage of the re-circulating water flow

Brownfield land: Previously-developed land which is or was occupied by a permanent structure, including the
curtilage of the developed land and any associated fixed surface infrastructure.

Cooling Tower: Plant through which warm water is discharged against an air stream; in doing so part of the water
is evaporated to saturate the air and this cools the water. The cooler water is usually pumped to a heat exchanger
to be reheated and recycled through the tower.

Concentration Factor : the level of dissolved solids in the cooling water with that dissolved in the make up water
(also known as the Cycle of Concentration). Usually determined by comparison of either the chloride or magnesium
hardness concentration

Contamination (Water): The direct or indirect introduction into water of microorganisms, chemicals, wastes or
wastewater.

Decontamination: The removal of pathogenic microorganisms from objects so that they are safe to handle.

Evaporative condenser : A heat exchanger in which refrigerant is condensed by a combination of air movement
and water sprays over its surface.

Free Residual Chlorine: The application of chlorine or chlorine compounds to water or wastewater to produce free
available residual chlorine.

Hypochlorite: In its sodium form, the active bleaching ingredient in liquid chlorine bleach.

Insanitary: One or more of those factors in the physical environment, which cause or have the potential to cause
conditions hazardous to health.

Legionella: The genus legionella which has over 50 species is ubiquitous in the environment and found in a wide
spectrum of natural and artificial water systems. Certain species, especially Legionella pneumophilia are capable of
causing Legionnaire’s Disease when inhaled in aerosol form.

Nuisance: An interference that ordinary decent people would consider unreasonable with the personal comfort or
enjoyment or amenity of neighbors or the community.
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Non Oxidizing Biocide: One that functions by mechanisms other than oxidation, including interference with cell
metabolism and structure.

Oxidizing Biocide: agents capable of oxidizing organic matter, e.g. cell material, enzyme or proteins which are
associated with microbiological activity. Chlorine, Bromine, Chlorine Dioxide and Ozone are all examples

Pollutant Linkage: For a pollutant linkage to occur, there must be a source of contamination, a pathway and a
receptor. The receptor can be humans, buildings or the wider environment such as flora and fauna. The pathway is
the link between the source and the receptor.

Potable Water: Water at the consumer tap that is wholesome and which meets the chemical, physical and
microbiological standard as outlined in SAEHC-S-01.

Parts Per Million (PPM): A unit of concentration replaced by mg/L in solution.

Qualitative Risk Assessment: A Basic assessment of the likelihood of risk associated with known contaminants
on a site coming into contact with a potential end user.

Quantitative Risk Assessment: A site-specific assessment, using numerical methods and target values, to
assess the risk posed to the end user of a site due to the likely migration of known contaminants.

Residual Chlorine: The free chlorine which remains in solution after the demand has been satisfied.

RO Product water from reverse osmosis (RO) desalinization.

Sewage: Wastewater from toilets, urinals, etc. as distinguished from gray water from laundries, car washes, etc..

TDS (total dissolved solids): Total solids dissolved in water.

1 INSPECTIONS

1.1 Proponent organizations shall inspect workplaces they control as often as is necessary to ensure
compliance with this Code Section. All inspections shall be recorded and such records shall be made
available to Saudi Aramco Environmental Protection Department (EPD) upon request.

1.2 Saudi Aramco EPD will conduct periodic inspections at places where persons are directly or indirectly
engaged in work for Saudi Aramco. Inspections will be conducted according to requirements outlined in
Saudi Aramco General Instruction 0151.006, as well as the Saudi Arab Government Labor Law. A
written report will be provided to the proponent organization.

2 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

2.1 The site, if practicable, shall not be located in an area subject to periodic flooding or adjacent to
marshes, railroads, stockyards, industrial sites, pipelines or other such areas which would constitute a
health hazard.

2.2 Whenever a Saudi Aramco place of employment is to be constructed, plans and specifications, for
such construction, shall be submitted to Saudi Aramco EPD during the design review process.

2.3 When a place of employment is to be constructed on brown field land a qualitative, preliminary land
risk assessment shall be conducted and the report submitted as part of the design review package.

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2.3.1 The qualitative, preliminary contaminated land risk assessment shall identify all previous site
uses, the potential contaminants associated with those uses and their effects on human
health. As part of this risk assessment, a conceptual model of the site indicating sources,
pathways and receptors shall be developed to identify any unacceptable pollutant linkages
associated with the sites former uses and the new proposal.

2.3.2 Where the preliminary risk assessment identifies the requirement for an intrusive
investigation to be carried out to quantify the risk associated with the pollutant linkage (the
quantitative risk assessment), this should be agreed with WED/EPD prior to being
undertaken.

2.3.3 Where the quantitative risk assessment identifies an unacceptable risk to human health, the
remediation measures necessary to bring the site up to a standard acceptable for its
proposed use should be identified.

2.3.4 A detailed method statement for any required remediation works shall be submitted to, and
approved in writing by EPD.

2.3.5 A verification report confirming that the remediation measures have been completed as
agreed, must be submitted and approved by WED/EPD before development commences.

2.3.6 In the event that contamination is found at any time when carrying out the development, that
was not previously identified, work must be halted and the contamination reported in writing
immediately to the Manager, EPD. An investigation and risk assessment must be undertaken
in accordance with this section and where remediation is necessary a remediation scheme
must be submitted to, and approved by WED/EPD

2.3.7 The approach to the Management of Contaminated land is specified Table 1 and shall be
followed.

TABLE 1
Approach to the Management of Contaminated Land
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3
Risk Assessment Options Appraisal Implementation of
the Remediation
Strategy

Preliminary Risk Identification of Feasible Preparation of the

Assessment Remediation Options Implementation Plan

Generic Quantitative Risk

Assessment Detailed Evaluation of Verification Plan
Options

Detailed Quantitative Risk

Development of Preferred Long-term Monitoring &
Assessment
Remediation Strategy Maintenance

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2.4 The walking and driving surfaces of all areas outside the physical facility shall be surfaced with
concrete, asphalt or similar material effectively treated to facilitate maintenance and to minimize dust.
These surfaces shall be well drained and kept clean.

2.5 All areas shall be kept free of nuisances and health hazards (see Section SAEHC-S-18 of this Code).
Whenever a nuisance or violation of this Code is observed by any agency, employee or individual other
than the Saudi Aramco proponent, it shall be reported to Saudi Aramco EPD. Saudi Aramco EPD will
ensure that the Saudi Aramco proponent is aware of the problem and shall provide assistance as
required.

2. 6 Housekeeping:

2.6.1 All places of employment, both inside and outside, including all furnishings, equipment and
fixtures shall be in good repair, in a clean and sanitary condition and free of insects, rodents
and other vermin.

2.6.2 The floor of every workroom shall be maintained in a clean and, so far as possible, a dry
condition. Where wet processes are used, drainage shall be maintained and dry standing
places shall be provided where practicable.

2.6.3 All dressing rooms, toilet rooms, shower rooms, hand washing facilities, utility rooms and
facilities shall be kept clean and in good repair at all times. They shall be free from flies and
objectionable odors. All fixtures and floors, as well as walls subject to splash, shall be
cleaned with an approved detergent, rinsed and then sanitized with a hypochlorite solution
or other equivalent disinfectant approved by EPD, at least once daily. Materials, maintenance
and cleaning equipment shall be properly stored.

2.6.4 Cleaning and sweeping shall be conducted in such a manner as to minimize the
contamination of the air with dust and shall be done outside of working hours, if practicable.

2.6.5 A “Master Cleaning Schedule” shall be developed and used in all places of employment. This
schedule shall be fully documented and be available for audit and review by WED.

2.7 Expectorating upon the walls, floors, stairs or any other area within the workplace is prohibited.

2.8 Food shall not be cooked in any room unless such room was specifically designed for this purpose
and the use of such room for cooking is approved by EPD.

2.9 Noise levels shall conform with provisions specified in SAES-A-105, Saudi Aramco Engineering
Standards and SAEHC-S-19.

2.10 All entrances, exits, corridors and stairways shall be properly illuminated.

2.11 Live animals, including those intended for slaughter, shall be excluded from the premises. Animals
shall not be slaughtered in a place other than a Saudi Arab Government approved slaughterhouse.

3 GENERAL CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS

As a general requirement, and without prejudice to the following, all new constructions or re-designs shall meet
the requirements of SAES-M-100, the International Fire Code (IFC) and the International Building Code (IBC).

3.1 Floors:

3.1.1 Floors shall be constructed of durable, smooth and easily cleanable materials. Carpeting, if
used, shall be designed for heavy use, shall be of closely woven construction, shall be
properly installed and shall be maintained in good repair and in a clean condition at all times.

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3.1.2 The floors of kitchens, lunch rooms, shower rooms, toilet rooms, utility rooms and hand
washing facilities shall have smooth, hard, easily cleanable surfaces which are impervious to
water, detergents and disinfectants (carpeting is prohibited in these areas). These floors shall
be sloped to properly trapped floor drains and the junctions between the floors and the walls
shall be coved and sealed.

3.1.3 Utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed on floors. If exposed, they
shall be installed in a way that does not obstruct cleaning.

3.1.4 Floor mats and duckboards are prohibited in wet areas, e.g. kitchens, shower rooms, toilet
rooms, utility rooms and hand washing facilities.

3.2 Walls and ceilings:

3.2.1 Walls and ceilings shall be constructed of durable materials and shall have light colored,
smooth, easily cleanable surfaces. In addition, the walls in toilet and shower rooms shall be
impervious to water, detergents and disinfectants to a minimum height of 1.2 meters (4 feet)
in toilet rooms and 1.8 meters (6 feet) in shower rooms. The junctions between the floors and
walls in kitchens, lunch rooms, shower rooms, toilet rooms, utility rooms and hand washing
facilities shall be coved and sealed (see sub-section 3.1.2 of this Code Section).

3.2.2 The use of rough or unsealed and unfinished building materials, such as brick, concrete
blocks and wooden beams is prohibited in kitchens, lunch rooms, shower rooms, toilet
rooms, utility rooms and hand washing facilities.

3.2.3 Studs, joists and rafters shall not be exposed in kitchens, lunch rooms, shower rooms, toilet
rooms, utility rooms and hand washing facilities.

3.2.4 Covering materials, such as Formica, sheet metal, linoleum and vinyl, shall be attached and
sealed to wall and ceiling surfaces in a way that leaves no open spaces or cracks.

3.2.5 Utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed on walls and ceilings. If
exposed, they shall be installed in a way that does not obstruct or prevent cleaning.

3.2.6 Wall or ceiling mounted light fixtures, vent covers, decorative materials, fans, equipment and
appurtenances shall be designed to facilitate cleaning, shall be made of easily cleanable
materials, shall be installed in a way that does not obstruct or prevent cleaning and shall be
maintained in good repair.

3.2.7 The ceilings in all habitable rooms shall be at least 2.3 meters (7.5 feet) high as measured to
the lowest projection from the ceiling.

3.2.8 The ceilings in hallways, corridors, shower rooms, toilet rooms and utility rooms shall be at
least 2.1 meters (7 feet) high as measured to the lowest projection from the ceiling.

3.2.9 The walls or partitions between toilet/shower compartments may be less than the height of
the room walls, but the tops shall not be less than 1.8 meters (6 feet) from the floor. If
partitions are used, the bottoms of the partitions shall be raised at least 20 centimeters (8
inches) above the floor. In situations where a raised partition is not desirable, such as
partitions separating eastern style toilet fixtures where a raised partition may not afford
suitable privacy, partitions shall be placed on a continuous raised masonry or concrete base
at least 15 centimeters (6 inches) high, or a properly designed and constructed wall that joins
the floor shall be provided.

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3.3 Doors, Windows and Screening:

3.3.1 All exterior entrances to corridors, habitable rooms, kitchens, lunch rooms, shower rooms,
toilet rooms, utility rooms and hand washing facilities shall be provided with solid doors or
glazed windows which shall be kept tightly closed when not in use (excludes passageways
between rooms within an enclosed building). If outside openings are appropriately protected
from the entry by insects and rodents according to the requirements outlined in sub-sections
3.3.2 and 3.3.4 of this Code Section, solid doors and glazed windows may be considered to
be "in use" if they are left open to ventilate the structure.

3.3.2 All exterior entrances to kitchens, lunch rooms, shower rooms, toilet rooms, utility rooms and
hand washing facilities shall be fitted with self-closing screen doors which open outwards (a
screen door is not required if the solid door is self-closing and opens outward, the area is
fully air conditioned alleviating the need for propping the solid door open and the operational
nature of the facility is such that employees are required to keep doors closed, e.g. facilities
within industrial plants. The bottoms of screen doors shall be covered with metal sheeting in
accordance with sub-section 3.3.3 of this Code Section. Other effective fly control devices,
e.g. air curtains, may be used in lieu of screen doors.

3.3.3 All outer doors and screen doors shall be tight-fitting and self-closing. All doors and screen
doors, including sliding or folding types, shall be constructed so that the space between the
lower edge of the door and the threshold does not exceed 6.4 millimeters (0.25 inches). The
space between sections of folding and sliding doors, when closed, shall not exceed 6.4
millimeters (0.25 inches). All exposed edges of the lower 20.3 centimeters (8 inches) of
doors and jambs that are made of materials through which rodents could gnaw, especially
outer doors and doors known to be accessible to rodents, shall be protected by covering
such edges of doors and jambs with metal sheeting that cannot be gnawed through.

3.3.4 All openable windows which are not solidly closed and are accessible to insects and rodents
shall be appropriately screened by grills, hardware cloth or other material capable of
precluding the entry by insects and rodents. The effective mesh size of screening material
shall not be less than 6 mesh per centimeter (16 mesh per inch).

3.3.5 Doors, windows and appurtenances thereto, shall be designed and constructed to avoid
accumulation of dirt and shall be finished such that they are smooth, nonabsorbent and
easily cleanable. Doors, windows, as well as appurtenances thereto, shall be kept clean and
maintained in good repair.

4 VENTILATION

4.1 Ventilation shall be provided to remove gases, odors, steam, excessive heat, grease, vapors, smoke
and other contaminants from the workplace. Ventilation systems shall be installed and operated
according to standards equivalent to those outlined in Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards SAES-K-
001. Where practicable open wet cooling towers or evaporative condensers should be replaced by dry
cooling systems as a means to control biological hazards.

4.2 Intake air ducts shall be designed and maintained to prevent the entrance of dust, dirt, and other
contaminating materials. All ventilation openings shall be appropriately screened by grilles, hardware
cloth or other material capable of precluding entrance of insects and rodents. Note that automatic fan
ventilation openings are acceptable for rodent stoppage if the fan covering is maintained in good repair.

4.3 The temperature in all habitable and other rooms in which personnel work shall be maintained at a
level conducive to the healthful performance of the activity conducted in the area.

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4.4 All habitable rooms and corridors shall be sufficiently ventilated by means of natural or mechanical
ventilation. The requirement is deemed satisfied in corridors, offices and similar areas when it can be
demonstrated that the ventilation system exchanges at least two volumes of air per hour (if mechanical
ventilation is used, at least one fifth of the air supply shall be taken from the outside). The rate at which
the air volume is exchanged in shops, high activity work areas and areas subject to gases, odors,
steam, excessive heat, grease, vapors, smoke and other contaminates will be a function of the activity
and degree of health risk.

4.5 All kitchens, shower rooms, toilet rooms, utility rooms and hand washing facilities shall be provided
with mechanical ventilation systems capable of providing the equivalent of four air changes per hour.
At least 20 percent of the air supply shall be taken from the outside. If this is not feasible, mechanical
exhaust fans may be used in lieu of the required mechanical ventilation system. Exhaust fans shall be
capable of exhausting 1 cubic meter (35 cubic feet) of air per minute for each hand washbasin/sink,
shower, toilet and urinal installed.

4.6 All kitchens shall be provided with a mechanical ventilation system fitted inside a hood placed over
the stove, the design and specifications of which shall be compatible with the stove used. Screening
over exhaust openings shall be easily removable for cleaning.

4.7 Procedures shall be developed and implemented to control the growth of legionella and other bio-
hazards at open water cooling towers and evaporative condensers. They shall be reviewed annually,
properly communicated to key personnel and include the following:

4.7.1 Standard and emergency operating procedures.

4.7.2 Schematic plans and drawings of the plant.

4.7.3 Chemical treatment, process control and monitoring.

4.7.3.1 A primary oxidizing biocide shall be applied on a continuous basis through a

properly calibrated proportioning device to provide a minimum residual level of
0.5 – 1.0 mg/l chlorine, at optimum pH 7.2 – 7.8 or 1.0 - 2.0mg/l bromine at 7.5 –
9.0 pH.

4.7.3.2 Primary treatment shall be supplemented by non-oxidizing biocides, alternated

and applied either continuously or as a shot dose depending on manufacturer’s
recommendations.

4.7.3.3 Where practicable, chemical treatment shall be continuously monitored to ensure

effectiveness. Where manual testing of biocides is performed it must be carried
out at least once per eight hour cycle. Tests for calcium hardness, magnesium
hardness, total hardness, total alkalinity, chloride, and conductivity, shall be
performed monthly by an accredited laboratory. All test results must be logged
and records retained for at least one year.

4.7.3.4 The TDS level in make-up or source water shall be maintained below 3000 mg/l
and the system so configured that blow down operates at a maximum of 2
concentration cycles.

4.7.3.5 Microbiological activity shall be suitably monitored, including the use of dip slides
or similar devices at intervals of two weeks maximum and treatment adjusted
accordingly.

4.7.3.6 Cooling towers shall be de-sludged, cleaned and super chlorination undertaken
at least twice a year.

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4.8 Any cooling tower which is used intermittently or is required at short notice shall be operated once a
week whilst on stand-by and, at the same time, dosed with water treatment chemicals. Where the
system is out of use for a week to a month, the water should be treated with a biocide immediately on
re-use. If the system is out of use for more than one month, it should be kept full of treated water which
should be checked for biocide levels and water quality and circulated weekly. Where it is not possible
to ensure regular monitoring and circulation, the system shall be drained and sealed, with full re-
commission procedure to the written agreement of WED before the system is brought back into use.

5 ILLUMINATION

The levels of light specified in Table 2, whether from natural or artificial sources, shall be provided in
workplaces. Light shall be evenly distributed and of sufficient intensity to avoid discoloration, shadows and
strong glare. Illumination levels shall meet SAES-M-100, Chapter 10 of the International Building Code and
SAES-P-123 requirements.

TABLE 2
Illumination
Illumination Levels Required* Working Plane*
Area to be Illuminated Lux Foot candles Horizontal(H) (mm)
Corridor 200 20 H (Floor)
Kitchen 500 50 H (900)
Shower room 100 10 H (Floor)
Toilet 200 20 H (Floor)
Stairway 75 7.5 H (Floor)
All other indoor areas 75 7.5 H (Floor)
*Measurement distance

6 POTABLE WATER SYSTEM

6.1 Water shall be obtained, conveyed, treated, stored and distributed in a closed system. Design,
construction, maintenance and operational standards, as well as quality criteria, shall comply with
requirements outlined in Section SAEHC-S-01 of this Code and standards referenced in Saudi Aramco
Engineering Standards.

6.2 Enough potable water for the needs of the employees shall be obtained from the community water
supply. If a community water supply is not available, then water shall be obtained from an adequate,
easily accessible source which has been properly located and protected to ensure that water obtained
is of a safe and sanitary quality. The source shall be constructed in a way that prevents underground
or surface contamination from reaching the source. Facilities shall be operated and maintained by
competent individuals. No part of the system shall be used for any other purpose.

6.3 Water wells (or other water source) and collection, conveyance, treatment, storage and distribution
systems, or parts thereof, which are newly constructed, have been repaired or have otherwise become
contaminated, shall be thoroughly disinfected according to requirements outlined in Section SAEHC-S-
01 of this Code before being used. The supply shall be purged of all but normal residual amounts of
disinfectant (less than 3 milligrams per liter [3 parts per million] if chlorine is used to disinfect the
system) before a sample for bacteriological testing is collected.

6.4 All water not provided directly by pipe to the work place from the source shall be transported in a bulk
water transport system which is used for no other purpose. At the time water is obtained from the
approved source, enough chlorine shall be added to the water in the bulk water transport system to
create a 0.5 to 3 milligrams per liter (0.5 to 3 parts per million) free residual chlorine. Hauled water shall
be delivered directly to the closed water system at the work place. The bulk water transport system
shall comply with requirements outlined in Section SAEHC-S-01 of this Code.

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6.5 Water storage tanks shall be enclosed from the filling inlet to the discharge outlet. Tanks shall be
located above ground and designed with openings which permit visual inspection of the tank and
provide access for cleaning and disinfection. All openings shall be covered. Covers shall overlap
openings, be sloped so they are self-draining and shall be provided with gaskets and devices for
securing them in place. All openings in the top of the tank shall be flanged upward to form a curb that
prevents surface water from entering openings. Vents and overflows shall terminate in a downward
direction and shall be screened to prevent entry by birds and other animals. All water storage tanks
shall be provided with a sample tap. Tanks shall be of above ground type

6.6 Plumbing with emphasis on cross connection control:

6.6.1 Plumbing shall be designed, sized and installed according to standards outlined in Saudi
Aramco Engineering Standards. Plumbing and plumbing fixtures shall be operated and
maintained in a way which prevents contamination. Plumbing and plumbing fixtures shall be
kept clean and in good repair.

6.6.2 The potable water system within places of employment shall be designed and constructed to
prevent the possibility of backflow. Devices to protect against backflow and back siphonage
shall be installed on all water outlets and equipment where an air gap of at least twice the
inner diameter of the water outlet is not provided between the water outlet and the flood-level
rim of the receiving drain or receiving basin of the drain fixture, and wherever else backflow
or back siphonage may occur. A hose shall not be attached to a faucet unless a backflow
prevention device is installed.

6.6.3 There shall be no cross connection between the potable water supply and any unsafe or
questionable water supply, sewerage system or any source of pollution which might
contaminate or otherwise degrade the potable water supply.

6.6.4 There shall be no direct physical connection between the sewerage system and any drain
originating from equipment which contains food or food equipment and utensils.

6.6.5 A non-potable water system is permitted only for purposes such as air conditioning and fire
protection. It shall not be directly or indirectly connected with the potable water system.
Water from the system shall not be used for any domestic purpose. The piping of the non-
potable water system shall be durably identified so that it is readily distinguishable from
piping that carries potable water.
6.6.6 The Proponent in charge of water distribution systems within places of employment must take
proper steps to protect the water supply system. When it is determined that a backflow-
prevention assembly is required for the protection of the supply system, EPD or the water
supplier shall require the proponent to install an approved backflow-prevention assembly at
each service connection, to test immediately upon installation and annually or more often in
those instances where successive inspections indicate repeated failure, to properly repair
and maintain such assembly or assemblies and to keep adequate records of each test and
subsequent maintenance and repair, including materials or replacement parts.
6.6.7 The Proponent’s responsibility starts at the point of delivery from the water supply system and
includes all of its water systems. The Proponent shall maintain accurate records of tests and
repairs made to backflow-prevention assemblies which shall be made available to EPD on
request. The records shall be on forms approved by EPD and shall include the list of
materials or replacement parts used. Following any repair, overhaul, re-piping or relocation of
an assembly the Proponent shall have it tested to ensure that it is in good operating condition
and will prevent backflow. A certified backflow-prevention assembly tester shall make tests,
maintain, and repair backflow-prevention assemblies.

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6.6.8 In the event of accidental pollution or contamination of the water supply system or the
building’s own potable water system due to backflow on or from the premises, the person
responsible must promptly take steps to confine further spread of the pollution or
contamination within the system and should notify EPD and the water supplier of the
condition. They shall take appropriate measures to free the water system(s) of any pollutants
or contaminants.

6.7 All potable water supplied to places of employment shall be disinfected by chlorination or other
means or methods of equal efficiency in the killing or removal of organisms capable of causing
infection. When chlorination is employed, a sufficient amount of chlorine shall be added to the water to
maintain a residual chlorine of at least 0.5 milligrams per liter (0.5 parts per million) at all points in the
distribution system from which water may be withdrawn.

6.8 Hot and cold potable water shall be provided at kitchen sinks. Hot water shall be thermostatically
controlled in the delivery system to ensure that the temperature at the point of delivery is 49°C (120°F)
and the rate of supply is at least 11.4 liters (3 gallons) per minute. Any slow-closing faucet used shall
provide a flow of water for at least 30 seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet. Anti-scald
valves are recommended o ensure that the temperature does not exceed 49°C (120°F) at the point of
mixing.

6.9 If hoses are used for conveying potable water, they shall be constructed of safe materials, shall have
a smooth interior surface, shall be used for no other purpose and shall be clearly identified as to its
use. Caps and keeper chains shall be provided for water system inlet and outlet fittings, as well as
hose fittings. All such fittings shall be capped when not in immediate use. Hoses shall be stored and
used so as to be kept free of contamination. A hose shall not be attached to a faucet unless a backflow
prevention device is installed.

6.10 Drinking water fountains and associated requirements

6.10.1 Drinking fountains, if provided, shall be approved angle-jet type and shall be provided with an
adequate supply of water under pressure.

6.10.2 Spillage, overflow, drainage or wastewater from drinking fountains and faucets shall be
discharged to the sewerage system through approved drains to prevent impoundment of
water, creation of mud holes or other nuisance conditions.

6.10.3 Open containers from which water must be dipped or poured, such as barrels, pails or tanks,
whether or not they are fitted with a cover, are prohibited.

6.10.4 Where single service paper cups are provided, cups shall be dispensed from a sanitary
device designed for this purpose and a waste receptacle shall be provided for disposal of
used cups. The common drinking cup is prohibited.

6.11 Compressed air used to pressurize the potable water system shall be filtered or otherwise treated to
render it free of dust, insects and extraneous material. Air intakes shall be properly located and
maintained. Filters shall be located upstream from the compressor and shall be easily removable for
cleaning and replacement. The blower or compressor supplying air shall be designed so that it will
deliver oil- free air. Oil-free air shall be produced by a method equivalent to one of the following: a) use
of carbon ring piston compressor; b) use of an oil-lubricated compressor with effective provision for
removal of oil vapor; or c) high-pressure, water-lubricated or non-lubricated blowers.

6.12 If a water treatment plant is provided:

6.12.1 The piping system color code specified in Table 3 shall be adopted. Non-toxic paints shall be
used (the use of paints containing lead shall be avoided.

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TABLE 3
Piping System Color-Code
Piping System Base Color Identifying Color Stripe
Chilled Water Blue 1-Gray
Chlorine, Gas and Liquid Yellow 1-Oxide Red
Condensate Water Blue 1-White
Distilled and Demineralized Water Blue 1-Aluminum
Raw Water Blue 1-Black
Sea, Salt or Brine Water Blue 1-Yellow
Treated (any process) Blue 1-Oxide Red
Note: HVAC lines and electrical conduits are not color-coded but are
Painted the same color as the background construction.

6.12.2 Equipment, devices, filters, and all other water treatment or conditioning apparatus shall be
made of safe materials, shall be designed to be disassembled for periodic replacement of
active elements/media, cleaning and service, shall be operated, inspected and serviced
according to the manufacturer's instructions and specifications, and shall not be operated
beyond their rated capacity. All such equipment shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary
condition and, if necessary, shall be sanitized by application of a chlorine solution or by other
approved means

6.12.3 Records of equipment operation and maintenance, quantities of product water produced,
types and amounts of chemicals added to treated water, pH and residual chlorine maintained
shall be kept in a log book. The log book shall be available for review by authorized Saudi
Aramco representatives at all times.

6.12.4 The biological and chemical quality of the water after treatment shall be as good as, or better
than, it was before treatment.

7 SEWAGE

7.1 Sewage shall be collected, treated and disposed of in accordance with requirements outlined in
Section SAEHC-S-02 this Code and those outlined in Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards SAES-A-
104. Where a public sewer system is available, all plumbing fixtures, building sewers and vents shall be
connected to it. In no case shall sewage or liquid waste of any type be discharged or otherwise
disposed of on the surface of the ground, or into any well, cave, open ditch or reservoir until it has been
properly treated and the disposal method has been approved by Saudi Aramco EPD. Pit latrines,
outhouses and other non-water-carried sewage disposal methods are prohibited except as permitted in
sub-section 8.10 of this Code Section.

7.2 Floor drains and sewer pipes shall be large enough to carry off all wastewater and sanitary sewage.
Sufficient clean-out places shall be provided in sewer drainpipes.

7.3 Grease traps, if used, shall be located so they are easily accessible for cleaning.

7.4 All sewer pipes or drains through which rodents may pass shall be closed with a properly secured,
perforated metal or iron cover. Perforations shall not admit a cylinder 13 millimeters (0.5 inches) in
diameter.

7.5 Defective sewer pipes, traps, drains and vents shall be repaired or replaced promptly and
professionally. Crude repairs with wood, tape or metal strips are unsatisfactory.

7.6 Drains and sewers within places of employment shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the Saudi Aramco Plumbing Code SAES-S-060.

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8 TOILET ROOMS, SHOWER ROOMS, HAND WASHING FACILITIES AND UTILITY ROOMS (GENERAL)

8.1 Every place of employment shall be provided with properly designed and constructed toilet, shower
and hand washbasin facilities which are separate for each sex.

8.2 Toilet and hand washing facilities shall be readily accessible and open to personnel at all times.
Facilities are not considered to be readily accessible if an employee is required to climb more than one
floor-to- floor flight of stairs or if they are located more than 61 meters (200 feet) from the location
where the employee normally works.

8.3 Toilets, showers and hand washbasins shall be separately installed to be individually accessible and
to permit simultaneous use.

8.4 Shower rooms, toilet rooms, utility rooms and hand washing facilities shall be separated from food
preparation and sleeping rooms by a minimum of a double set of doors incorporating an intervening
vestibule which is exhausted to the outside through its own mechanical exhaust system that is
independent of the food preparation and sleeping rooms. Complete separation of these areas is
preferred.

8.5 Hand washbasins and other sinks, faucets and hydrants not specifically designed and approved for
such use, shall not be used for cleaning or preparing food or for washing dishes, utensils or clothing.

8.6 All facilities shall be well ventilated (see sub-section 4 of this Code Section).

8.7 Legible signs made of durable materials directing all users to wash their hands after using the
toilet/urinal shall be conspicuously posted in every toilet room (in Arabic, English and other appropriate
languages).

8.8 The number of showers, toilets/urinals and hand washbasins specified in Table 4 shall be provided:

TABLE 4
Numbers and Types of Fixtures Required
Number of Showers* Number of Toilets** Number of Washbasins***
employees male female employees male female employees male female
1 to 15 1 1 1 - 15 1 1 1 - 10 1 1
16 to 30 2 2 16 - 35 2 2 11 - 20 2 2
31 - 45 3 3 36 - 55 3 3 21 - 30 3 3
46 - 60 4 4 56 - 75 4 4 31 - 40 4 4
61 - 75 5 5 76 - 100 5 5 41 - 50 5 5
76 - 90 6 6 51 - 60 6 6
91 - 105 7 7 61 - 70 7 7
71 - 80 8 8
81 - 90 9 9
91 - 100 10 10
>105 one per 15 additional >100 one per 30 additional >100 on per 10 additional
persons persons persons

* One shower shall be provided for every 15 workers, or portion thereof, exposed to excessive heat or to skin
contamination with poisonous, infectious or irritating materials.
** Where 10 or more men are employed, urinals should be provided. Urinals may be substituted for toilets on a one to
one basis, except that the number of toilets shall not be reduced to less than two-thirds of the number specified in
Table 3. This clause does not apply to facilities provided for females.
*** At least one hand washbasin shall be provided for every 10 employees or portion thereof, up to 100 persons, and
one hand washbasin for each additional 15 persons or portion thereof. Where employees are exposed to skin
contamination with poisonous, infectious or irritating materials, the number of hand washbasins provided shall be
increased to one for every 5 employees.

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8.9 The minimum size of, and floor space allotted for, toilets, hand washbasins, urinals and showers shall
be as follows:

TABLE 5
Minimum Space Required for Each Type of Installation
Minimum Minimum Minimum Space Per
Installation
Width Depth Unit
Hand washbasin 60 cm 105 cm 1.1 m2
Shower cubical 75 cm 75 cm 1.3 m2
Shower stall 75 cm 75 cm 1.3 m2
Toilet compartment 80 cm 105 cm 1.5 m2
Urinal 60 cm 105 cm 1.1 m2

8.10 When chemical closets are required to support a transitory place of employment, they shall be of a
type approved by EPD and shall be maintained in a sanitary condition.

9 TOILET ROOMS

9.1 Toilet rooms shall be completely enclosed. Each toilet fixture shall be individually enclosed within its
own compartment within the toilet room (does not apply to urinals). This is required to ensure that an
individual's need for privacy does not interfere with his commitment to personal hygiene.

9.2 The entrance to a toilet room shall be provided with a door(s) according to requirements outlined in
sub-section 3.3 of this Code Section.

9.3 Urinals shall be provided according to requirements outlined in Table 5 of this Code Section and
individual units fitted with appropriate screen separation to assure privacy. Note that 60 centimeters (24
inches) of trough urinal space is considered to be equivalent to one urinal.

9.4 Toilet bowls shall be set entirely free and open from all enclosing structures and shall be so installed
that the space around the fixture can be easily cleaned. This does not prohibit the use of wall-hung
toilets.

9.5 Every western-type toilet shall have a hinged, open-front seat made of substantial material having a
smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable finish. A holder supplied with toilet tissue shall be provided in
each toilet compartment. Where water taps are provided at western-type toilets they shall be fitted with
appropriate backflow prevention devices designed to protect the water distribution system from
contamination (see sub-section 6.6.2 of this Code Section).

9.6 Every eastern-type toilet shall be made of substantial material having a smooth, nonabsorbent, easily
cleanable finish. Each toilet shall be provided with a water tap for washing (and a supply of toilet paper
with holder, where indicated). Water taps provided for eastern-type toilets shall be fitted with
appropriate backflow prevention devices designed to protect the water distribution system from
contamination (see sub-section 6.6.2 of this Code Section).

9.7 Covered waste receptacles shall be provided in all toilet compartments used by women.

10 HAND WASHING FACILITIES

10.1 Adequate hand washing facilities shall be conveniently located adjacent to toilet facilities. When
trough sinks and circular wash basins are provided with individual faucets, 60 centimeters (24 inches)
of lineal trough sink or 45 centimeters (18 inches) of a circular basin shall be considered as equal to
one hand washbasin. Also note that utility sinks are not acceptable substitutes for hand washbasins.

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10.2 Tempered running water shall be provided to each hand washbasin. Hot water shall be
thermostatically controlled in the delivery system to ensure that the temperature at the point of delivery
is 49°C (120°F) and the rate of supply is at least 11.4 liters (3 gallons) per minute. Any slow-closing
faucet used shall provide a flow of water for at least 30 seconds without the need to reactivate the
faucet. Anti-scald valves are recommended o ensure that the temperature does not exceed 49°C
(120°F) at the point of mixing.

10.3 Hand washing cleanser and single-use paper towels shall be provided in dispensers at or next to
hand washbasins at all times (common towels are prohibited). Mechanical hot air blowers for drying the
hands may be substituted for paper towels.

10.4 A refuse container lined with a disposable plastic bag shall be provided next to hand washbasins.
The refuse container need not be covered.

11 SHOWERS

11.1 Showers shall be provided if employees are exposed to skin contamination with poisonous,
infectious or irritating materials.

11.1.1 Shower rooms shall be completely enclosed. Each shower fixture shall be individually
enclosed in a separate compartment within the shower room. The compartment should be
composed of a cubical with a bench and a clothes hook and a separated shower stall. The
visual privacy of the bather should be maintained. Privacy curtains, if used, shall be of an
easily cleanable material and kept clean.

11.1.2 Showers shall be designed and constructed to be self-draining and to preclude the flow of
water into adjacent areas.

11.1.3 Floor racks (duckboards) are prohibited.

11.1.4 If individual shower compartments are not provided, the shower room shall include a
dressing area. The dressing area shall be equipped with benches and clothes hooks.

11.1.5 Showers shall be supplied with water through thermostatic, tempering or mixing valves so
that the hot water supply is at a temperature of 49°C (120°F), before mixing and at a rate of
at least 11.4 liters (3 gallons) per minute. Any slow-closing faucet used shall provide a flow of
water for at least 30 seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

11.2 Emergency showers and eyewash stations shall be provided in all areas where chemicals are
handled or stored or where a biological hazard exists.

11.2.1 Emergency showers and eyewash stations shall be designed and operated in accordance
with SAES-B-069.

11.2.2 Emergency showers and eyewash stations shall be connected to the potable drinking water
system and sanitary sewer.

11.2.3 Where a drinking water supply is not readily available at areas where chemicals are handled
or stored or where a biological hazard exists the fluid used in the system for flushing injurious
materials from the eyes, face and body of personnel shall be certified fit for the purpose by
the Workplace Environment Division/Environmental Protection Department.

11.3 Shower heads and toilet hose bibs shall be maintained free from scale and subject to a disinfection
regime every quarter maximum in order to control biofilm and legionella risk.

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11.4 Accumulator vessels on pressure boosted hot and cold water services shall be fitted with diaphragms
which are accessible for cleaning.

11.5 All standby recirculation pumps on the hot water circuits should be operated at least once per week.
Standby storage water heaters should be emptied of water and there should be specified procedures in
place to be followed before they are bought back into use.

11.6 In the case of a centralized hot water heating and storage system, a suitable shunt pump to move hot
water from the top of the storage water heater to the base should be fitted and controlled by a time
clock, set to operate during low demand periods, e.g. early hours of the morning. The calorifier should
have specific connections for the shunt pump return, as low down as possible.

11.7 The hot water supply/distribution system must be “balanced” in that it should be possible to balance
the flow of water throughout the hot water circuit by adjusting regulating valves to ensure that the target
temperature is achieved throughout the system under all levels of water consumption,

12 CHANGING AREAS AND LOCKERS

12.1 Changing areas shall be provided wherever the work performed involves exposure to excessive dirt,
heat, fumes, vapor or moisture, or when employees are exposed to poisonous, infectious or irritating
materials.

12.2 Where employees' work clothes are exposed to contamination with poisonous, infectious or irritating
materials, facilities shall be provided in changing rooms so that street and work clothes will not be
stored in contact with each other.

12.3 Where the process in which the worker is engaged is such that his work clothing becomes wet or has
to be washed between shifts, provision shall be made to ensure that such clothing is dry before reuse.

12.4 Lockers, if provided for the storage of employee's street clothing and personal belongings, shall be
constructed of easily cleanable, corrosion resistant materials and shall not have sharp edges. Lockers
shall be vented. Lockers shall be set either on solid masonry bases 13 centimeters (5 inches) high or
on legs so that locker bottoms are at least 25 centimeters (10 inches above the floor).

12.5 Hooks or a rail fitted with captive hangers shall be provided for hanging wet reusable protective
clothing between uses. The hooks/hangers shall be sufficiently spaced to allow free air circulation
around all items when all hooks/hangers are used.

12.6 Shoe/boot racks shall be provided for proper air drying of wet shoes and boots between uses. The
racks shall be sufficiently spaced to allow free air circulation around all items when all hooks/racks are
used.

13 RETIRING ROOMS FOR WOMEN

13.1 Where 10 or more women are employed at any one time, at least one retiring room shall be provided,
with the understanding that it is to be used only for rest and emergencies and not for smoking or
recreational purposes. Where less than 10 women are employed and a formal retiring room is not
furnished, some equivalent space shall be provided which can be properly screened for privacy and
made suitable for use by female employees.

13.2 Retiring rooms shall be conveniently located, exclusively used by women, and open to them during
all working hours.

13.3 Retiring rooms shall be furnished with one bed or couch for the first 10 to 50 female employees. One
additional bed or couch shall be provided for every 100 female employees, or portion thereof, in excess
of the original 50 female employees.

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14 GARBAGE AND REFUSE

14.1 Garbage and refuse storage facilities:

14.1.1 Prior to removal from the premises, garbage and other refuse shall be stored in a way that
makes it inaccessible to insects, rodents and other vermin. Outside storage of garbage or
refuse in open piles or in any container other than an approved garbage or refuse container
is prohibited, e.g. storage in paper bags or cardboard boxes. Inside storage of waste in open
piles on the floor of the garbage/refuse storage room is prohibited. Heavy-duty plastic bags
may be stacked on the floor of a properly designed and constructed refuse storage room if
the waste contained therein is satisfactorily sealed in the bag, i.e. the bag does not represent
an “open pile”.

14.1.2 The garbage/refuse storage room, if provided, shall be large enough to store all
garbage/refuse containers that accumulate between disposal periods. Walls, ceilings and all
attachments thereto, shall be made of substantial material having a smooth, nonabsorbent,
easily cleanable finish. The floor shall be constructed of a smooth, easily cleanable,
nonabsorbent material, such as sealed concrete, and shall be properly sloped to a trapped,
covered drain that is connected to the sewerage system. The structure shall be insect- and
rodent-proof, including the provision of a solid door designed to preclude the entry by
rodents. Additionally, a screen door that opens outward, an air curtain device or other
effective means of excluding flies shall be provided. The storage room shall be kept clean
and maintained in good repair.

14.1.3 Facilities shall be provided for cleaning garbage/refuse containers, lugger boxes and
compactor systems after they are emptied (this facility need not be provided on the premises
if the waste hauler provides this service at another location). As a minimum, the facility shall
be provided with hot running water delivered at a minimum pressure of at least 1.4 kilograms
per square centimeter (20 pounds per square inch) with a minimum flow of at least 3.8 liters
per minute (1 gallon per minute). The floor shall be constructed of a smooth, easily
cleanable, nonabsorbent material, such as sealed concrete, and shall be properly sloped to a
trapped, covered drain that is connected to the sewerage system.

14.1.4 The floor of an outside garbage/refuse storage area shall be constructed of a smooth, easily
cleanable, nonabsorbent material, such as sealed concrete or machine laid asphalt; and
shall be large enough to accommodate the garbage/refuse containers that accumulate
between disposal periods.

14.2 Garbage and refuse containers:

14.2.1 Approved garbage and refuse containers shall include standard 115 liters (30 gallons) steel
garbage cans, modified 210 liters (55 gallons) steel drums, purpose-built lugger boxes and
compactor systems. All such containers shall be made of durable, nonabsorbent, easily
cleanable materials that are impervious to attack by insects, rodents and other vermin. They
shall be designed and constructed so that they do not leak. Drain plugs, where required,
shall be in place at all times except during cleaning.

14.2.2 Refuse equipment and containers shall be provided with tight- fitting lids, doors or covers.

14.2.2.1 The lids, doors or covers of outside refuse equipment and containers shall be
kept in the closed position when not in immediate use.

14.2.2.2 Refuse containers that are actively being used in the facility need not be
covered. Refuse containers shall be covered when not actively being used. Filled
refuse containers shall be covered and removed from the facility to the refuse
storage facility.
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14.2.2.3 The cover and the outside surface of the 210 liters (55 gallons), 115 liters (30
gallons) and smaller containers shall be labeled with the word “GARBAGE” or
“REFUSE.” Once used as a garbage or refuse container, the lid and container
shall not be used for any other purpose, especially food preparation or storage
.
14.2.4 The 210 liters (55 gallons), 115 liters (30 gallons) and smaller containers shall be lined with
heavy duty plastic bags to minimize cleaning requirements and facilitate removal of refuse.

14.2.5 Refuse containers shall be provided where refuse is generated. There shall be a sufficient
number of approved containers to hold all the garbage and refuse produced and to
accommodate the total amount accumulated in the refuse holding facility between disposal
periods.

14.2.6 Periodically, each container shall be thoroughly washed with hot water and detergent on the
inside and outside in a way that does not contaminate water, food or the environment.

14.2.7 Refuse equipment and containers shall not, by their location or installation, create a nuisance
or prevent cleaning of adjacent space.

14.8 Where recycling is practiced the specification for containers and their types shall be in
accordance with recycling plans defined in SAEHC-S-03.

14.3 Garbage and refuse disposal:

14.3.1 Refuse shall be collected and disposed of often enough to prevent the development of odors
and the attraction of insects and rodents but not less than twice per week.

14.3.2 Waste shall be removed to the disposal facility in a purpose-built refuse transport vehicle.

14.3.3 All refuse shall be disposed of in a municipal sanitary landfill, or by any other method approved
by EPD. Open dumps and burn-pits are prohibited.

15 INSECT AND RODENT CONTROL

15.1 The proponent is responsible for controlling insects, rodents and other vermin, including control of
breeding sites, e.g. artificial bodies of water.

15.2 Buildings shall be designed, constructed, equipped, maintained and operated to prevent the entry
and harborage of insects, rodents, animals, birds and other vermin, as well as environmental
contaminants, such as smoke and dust. Effective measures, such as excluding, inspecting and
exterminating, shall be used to minimize the entry, presence and propagation of vermin, both inside
and outside of the building as specified by SAEHC-S-17.

15.3 A preventive pest control program shall encompass all areas outside and inside the place of
employment. Areas along fences, around buildings, under stored materials, in and around refuse
facilities, as well as floors, walls and ceilings in buildings, shall be inspected frequently to detect the
presence of insects, rodents and other vermin. Preventive control measures are preferable to
eradication campaigns.

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16 LUNCH ROOMS AND KITCHENS

16.1 In all places where employees are permitted to lunch on the premises, an adequate space suitable for
that purpose shall be provided (note that a separate lunch room is required if employees are exposed
to injurious dusts, toxic materials or other hazardous substances and they cannot be required to lunch
away from the premises). The space provided for the lunch room shall conform to the requirements
outlined in Table 6 and shall be based on the maximum number of persons using the room at any one
time.
TABLE 6
Minimum Space Required For Lunch Rooms
Number of persons Minimum space per person
2
25 and less 0.8 m
2
26 to 74 0.7 m
2
75 to 149 0.6 m
2
150 to 499 0.5 m
2
500 and more 0.4 m

16.2 If a kitchen is permitted, the design, construction and materials of structure and equipment, as well as
the general operating methods and procedures used to store, handle and protect food, equipment and
utensils, shall comply with requirements equivalent to those specified in Section SAEHC-S-04 of this
Code.

16.3 An adequate number of waste receptacles shall be provided and shall be used by employees for the
disposal of all waste food and materials (refer to sub-section 14.2 of this Code Section).

16.4 No food shall be stored, prepared or eaten in any location where there are present any toxic materials
or hazardous substances that may be injurious to their health.

REFERENCES:

1. Freedman, B., Sanitarians Handbook

2. Salvato, J., Environmental Engineering and Sanitation
3. SAES-B-069 Emergency Eyewashes and Showers
4. SAES-P-123 Lighting.
5. SAEHC,2002
6. SN/SC/1387 Greenfields, Brownfield Sites and Planning 2009: House of Commons Library
7. SAES-S-60 Saudi Aramco Plumbing Code
8. Legionnaires Disease ‘ The Control of Legionella bacteria in water systems’ (ACOP – L8)
(HSE), 2002
9. GE Water and Process Technologies : Chemical Water Treatment
10. SAES-M-100
11. SAES-P-123 Lighting

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