Making heavy machinery safer through technological advances

In the UAE, Dubai’s Roads and Transportation Authority (RTA) is committed to the safety of construction machinery through stringent regulations and advanced technology.

To explore these efforts, Technical Review Middle East spoke to Kaleemuddin Khan, senior sales and business development executive at Tajdeed Vehicle Testing Centre, an RTA-affiliated facility.

The centre is instrumental in inspecting a wide range of construction equipment, including wheel loaders, excavators, backhoe loaders, bulldozers, boom loaders, and cranes. According to Khan, “RTA prioritises safety through various measures designed to protect road users and enhance overall transportation and vehicle safety.”

Digitalisation for added safety

Tajdeed employs cutting-edge vehicle testing equipment to ensure precise inspections. This includes a fully equipped, state-of-the-art mobile inspection unit. Tajdeed uses the latest and most advanced testing equipment, such as roller brake testers, emission testers, and side-slip testers, among other tools. In addition to this advanced technology, Tajdeed’s well-trained inspectors conduct thorough visual inspections of the equipment.

“Inspections are tailored to customer needs, including registration, renewal, export, and transfer tests,” Khan noted. “Proper maintenance of machinery is critical for the safety of workers who depend on these vehicles. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent accidents, breakdowns, and other hazards associated with poorly maintained equipment.”

To ensure adherence to safety procedures, the RTA has installed cameras inside mobile testing units to monitor the inspection process. A control room also oversees inspections to maintain compliance with RTA standards and international regulations.

“Inspections are conducted following strict RTA parameters and international standards, with a primary focus on machinery safety and operator well-being," Khan explained. “If the equipment meets RTA criteria, a pass report is issued. However, issues such as faulty parts, oil leaks, or worn-out/expired tires will result in a failed inspection.”

Read the full article in the latest issue of Technical Review Middle East.