New requirements for equipping hearses in Saudi Arabia
Evolution of standards for equipping hearses in the Kingdom
The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has announced a comprehensive project to define the general requirements for equipping hearses locally. This regulatory move comes as part of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to improve public services and the quality of life. Historically, transporting the deceased has largely relied on the discretion of municipalities and charitable organizations using vehicles equipped with basic amenities. However, with the rapid development Saudi Arabia is witnessing as part of its Vision 2030 goals, it has become essential to standardize these requirements to align with global best practices. This will ensure the promotion of public health and the preservation of the dignity of the deceased during transport within and between cities, while maintaining the highest safety standards.
The strategic importance and expected impact of the new decisions
These requirements are of paramount importance on several levels. Locally, they contribute to raising the level of reliability and efficiency in the services provided by relevant authorities and charitable organizations specializing in the burial of the deceased, and they ensure a healthy and safe working environment for operators and employees. Regionally and internationally, this regulation positions the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a model to be emulated in the Middle East and the Islamic world, as the new standards integrate Islamic legal rulings regarding the respect due to the deceased with the latest internationally approved health and environmental protocols, thus significantly reducing the risk of infection transmission or any environmental contamination.
Classifications of hearses according to geographical area
The authority explained that the standard document classifies hearses into two main models to meet different operational needs. Model A is for vehicles intended for transport within urban areas, while Model B is for vehicles designed for long-distance intercity transport. The draft specification emphasized the necessity of equipping these vehicles based on a rigorous methodology for risk analysis and assessment to ensure that any health or operational threats are addressed. It stressed that modifications must not conflict with the manufacturer's instructions or exceed the vehicle's permissible gross weight, in order to maintain the safety of road users and the environment.
Spatial dimensions and strict health requirements
Regarding spatial dimensions, the standards stipulate that the net internal dimensions of the mortuary compartment must be no less than 1400 mm in height, 2900 mm in length, and 1600 mm in width. This precise specification aims to ensure the safe and efficient installation and operation of the body-carrying structure, along with ease of maintenance. Concerning health requirements, the project emphasized that the compartment must be free of difficult-to-clean materials such as fabrics, and that smooth, non-porous interior finishes must be used. Furthermore, all materials must be resistant to chemical cleaning and disinfecting agents. The authority clarified that the body-carrying structure must be made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and securely fixed to the vehicle floor to prevent vibration, with the addition of straps to resist sudden acceleration and deceleration.
Environmental insulation and advanced cooling systems
To prevent the accumulation of dirt and liquids, the requirements stipulate that the cabin floor must be a single, seamless piece, at least 1.6 mm thick, made of non-waxable materials such as vinyl or epoxy, with a safe and hygienic drainage system. To ensure complete environmental insulation, the specifications require the cabin and doors to be tightly sealed to prevent the ingress of water, dust, or exhaust gases. Specifically regarding the climate requirements for Model A, an air conditioning system must be provided, maintaining a temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, completely separated from the driver's air conditioning by a robust partition and a transparent glass window. Model B, designed for travel, mandates a highly efficient cooling system maintaining a temperature between 0 and 4 degrees Celsius, accompanied by superior internal thermal insulation and monitoring systems that allow the driver to view the temperature.
Electrical equipment, safety standards and identity
On the electrical and technical front, the document stipulates that the driver's cabin must be equipped with a visible control unit that allows for quick and safe operation of all systems. The vehicle must also be equipped with a main circuit breaker to completely cut off power during extended periods of inactivity, concealed and protected wiring, and independent fuses for each electrical unit. The standards conclude with safety requirements, mandating a minimum of four uniform white lighting units inside the cabin and two external units to facilitate loading and unloading. Operators are also required to print the beneficiary's logo on the vehicle doors using weather-resistant materials and equip the vehicle with a visual and audible alarm, a fire extinguisher, and a securely mounted and easily accessible first-aid kit.
