Codes and standards

Every design we issue is checked against the Saudi Building Code and the NFPA standards that apply to the project. We follow the editions adopted by Civil Defence at the time of submission.

Saudi Building Code, 2024 editions

The four SBC volumes that set the fire and life safety requirements for most projects in the Kingdom.

SBC 201

General Building Code

Occupancy, construction type, heights and areas, means of egress

SBC 501

Mechanical Code

Smoke control, ventilation and duct protection

SBC 801

Fire Code

Fire protection systems and life safety

SBC 901

Existing Building Code

Alterations, additions and change of use

NFPA standards

The NFPA standards referenced by the SBC that we use most often on Saudi projects.

  • NFPA 1 Fire Code
  • NFPA 10 Portable Fire Extinguishers
  • NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems
  • NFPA 14 Standpipe and Hose Systems
  • NFPA 20 Stationary Fire Pumps
  • NFPA 22 Water Tanks for Fire Protection
  • NFPA 24 Private Fire Service Mains
  • NFPA 25 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Systems
  • NFPA 72 Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
  • NFPA 80 Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives
  • NFPA 90A Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems
  • NFPA 92 Smoke Control Systems
  • NFPA 96 Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations
  • NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
  • NFPA 110 Emergency and Standby Power Systems
  • NFPA 2001 Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

Not sure which code applies?

Send us the building use, height and area. We will tell you which requirements drive the design before the layouts are fixed.