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Lifting Equipment Inspection: Ultimate SASO Compliance & Safety Guide 2025

21 Sep 2025 Articles

Lifting Equipment Inspection: Ultimate SASO Compliance & Safety Guide 2025

Lifting Equipment Inspection in Saudi Arabia is mandatory under SASO regulations to ensure safety, compliance, and reliability of cranes, hoists, forklifts, and other machinery. Because these machines handle heavy loads and operate in high-risk environments, Saudi Arabia enforces strict inspection requirements under the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) to ensure the highest levels of safety and reliability.

Whether you are importing new lifting machinery or operating existing equipment, understanding SASO’s inspection rules is critical for legal operation and workplace safety.

Why SASO Lifting Equipment Inspection Is Mandatory 

The SASO Technical Regulations for lifting equipments require all lifting devices to undergo initial and periodic inspections by an accredited inspection body.
These inspections confirm that equipment:

  1. Meets mechanical and structural integrity standards.
  2. Functions safely under its rated load capacity.
  3. Complies with electrical and hydraulic system requirements.
  4. Has up-to-date safety devices such as limit switches, overload protection, and emergency stop mechanisms.

Without a valid inspection certificate, lifting equipment cannot legally operate on Saudi job sites and may be denied entry at customs or stopped by regulatory authorities.

Types of Equipment Covered under SASO Inspection 

The inspection requirements apply to a wide range of lifting and hoisting machinery, including:

  1. Tower cranes and mobile cranes
  2. Forklifts and telehandlers
  3. Elevating work platforms and scissor lifts
  4. Overhead and gantry cranes
  5. Winches, hoists, and jib cranes
  6. Construction site lifting gear and accessories (slings, shackles, hooks, and chains)

Whether imported new, reconditioned, or transferred from another project, each piece of equipment must pass inspection before being placed into service.

Stages of Lifting Equipment Inspection in Saudi Arabia 

  1. Pre-Operation (Initial) Inspection
    When lifting equipment first arrives in Saudi Arabia—whether imported or newly installed—it must undergo a comprehensive inspection to confirm compliance with SASO technical regulations and manufacturer specifications.
  2. Periodic Inspection
    SASO also requires regular follow-up inspections, typically annual periodic inspection. These ensure ongoing safety, detect wear or damage, and maintain insurance validity.
  3. Post-Repair or Major Modification Inspection
    Any significant structural repair, overhaul, or modification requires a new inspection to certify that the equipment remains safe and fully compliant.

Key Inspection Checks for Lifting Equipment 

During the inspection, engineers verify:

  1. Load-bearing structures for cracks, corrosion, or deformation.
  2. Wires, ropes, chains, and hooks for wear and tear.
  3. Hydraulic and electrical systems for leaks, shorts, or malfunctions.
  4. Safety mechanisms such as limit switches, emergency stops, and overload protection.
  5. Documentation including manuals, maintenance logs, and previous inspection reports.

Passing all checks results in an inspection certificate, which must be kept on site and presented to regulators upon request.

Penalties for Non-Compliance with SASO  

Operating lifting equipment without a valid inspection certificate can lead to:

  1. Project shutdowns or delays by local authorities.
  2. Fines and legal liability in case of accidents.
  3. Insurance claim denials if equipment was not inspected.

Maintaining up-to-date inspection certificates protects your workers, your project schedule, and your bottom line.

How Watheeq Supports SASO Lifting Equipment Certification

Watheeq Company provides end-to-end inspection services for all types of lifting equipment:

  1. Initial Inspection – Comprehensive evaluation upon import or installation.
  2. Periodic & Renewal Inspections – Timely follow-ups to keep certificates valid.
  3. Technical Guidance – Assistance with maintenance plans and documentation to meet SASO standards.
  4. Fast Certification – Efficient scheduling and reporting to minimize downtime.

Qualified engineers use internationally recognized standards and the latest testing methods to ensure your equipment is safe, compliant, and ready for operation.

Key Takeaways

  1. All lifting equipment in Saudi Arabia—cranes, forklifts, hoists, and more—must pass the inspections before operation.
  2. Inspections include initial, periodic, and post-repair checks.
  3. A valid inspection certificate is mandatory for legal operation, insurance coverage, and worker safety.
  4. Watheeq Company offers complete inspection and certification services to keep your projects moving safely and on schedule.

Conclusion

Lifting equipment inspection in Saudi Arabia is not just a regulatory formality—it is a vital step for workplace safety, legal compliance, and project efficiency. By following SASO’s technical regulations, ensuring timely inspections, and securing valid certificates, businesses can avoid costly penalties and protect both workers and assets. Partnering with an accredited body like Watheeq Company simplifies the process, ensuring your cranes, forklifts, and hoists remain safe, certified, and ready for uninterrupted operation.

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