Decision 7/2023 issuing the Regulation for the Prevention of Risks from Ground Works and Installations relating to the Water and Wastewater Sector.

These Regulations, comprising 20 articles organized into VI Chapters, apply to licensees, holders of permits granted by the Public Services Regulatory Authority, contractors, and any person carrying out work near water and sewage networks. Article 3 stipulates that water and sewage network projects must not be built in wadis or other hazardous locations without a detailed technical study, risk assessment, and sufficient protective guarantees. All of these must be provided to the Authority upon request, and all designs and implementations must adhere to approved technical specifications. Obligations for implementing these projects include obtaining all necessary permits and approvals for proposed network routes before tendering. They also require anyone working near these networks to take precautions to prevent damage and compensate for any harm caused. Prior approval from the Royal Oman Police is required before starting underground water and sewage projects near roads. Work sites must be secured and lit, traffic diversions safely managed, and all disturbed areas fully restored. Mechanized excavation is banned near other underground services; all digging needs careful monitoring to prevent damage, with immediate notification to the Authority if any occurs. Licensees and permit holders must maintain comprehensive records of all water and sewage network projects and equipment, including their implemented state, detailed approvals, and accurate maps, making them available to the Authority and authorized government entities upon request. Article 20 provides for fines and penalties in the event of a violation.