Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Method Statement in Saudi Arabia | Trenchless Solutions

Horizontal directional drilling method statement documentation is a critical requirement for trenchless construction projects in Saudi Arabia, and DTC delivers this comprehensive HDD method statement to ensure safe, controlled, and compliant underground installations across the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in infrastructure development, utility networks, industrial zones, oil & gas facilities, and urban expansion. In such environments, conventional open-cut excavation often creates unacceptable disruption to roads, traffic, businesses, and existing utilities. As a result, Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) has become a preferred trenchless solution for installing underground pipelines, conduits, and cables.

The Eastern Province, particularly Dammam and Al Khobar, is a major center for HDD works due to dense infrastructure, industrial activity, and continuous utility upgrades.

At DTC, we execute HDD works in Saudi Arabia following a structured Horizontal Directional Drilling Method Statement that governs planning, execution, safety, quality control, and environmental protection. This document-style guide explains the HDD method statement in detail and its role in delivering reliable trenchless solutions.

Purpose of the HDD Method Statement

A Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Method Statement defines the approved construction methodology for executing HDD works safely and efficiently. It is typically required by:

• Project owners

• Consultants

• Utility authorities

• Regulatory bodies

The HDD method statement ensures:

• Controlled execution of drilling activities

• Compliance with Saudi regulations

• Risk mitigation

• Quality and safety assurance

At DTC, the HDD method statement forms the backbone of every trenchless drilling project.

Scope of Work Covered in the HDD Method Statement

The HDD method statement applies to trenchless installation of:

• Water pipelines

• Sewer and drainage pipelines

• Oil and gas pipelines

• Electrical and telecom ducts

• Industrial utility services

It covers all stages from mobilization to completion and site restoration.

Overview of Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)

Horizontal Directional Drilling is a steerable trenchless drilling technique used to install underground services along a pre-designed curved bore path. HDD allows crossings beneath:

• Roads and highways

• Railways

• Canals and water bodies

• Buildings and structures

• Existing underground utilities

This method minimizes surface disruption and improves safety compared to open-cut excavation.

HDD Method Statement – Roles and Responsibilities

Clear definition of responsibilities is essential for safe HDD execution.

Key Project Roles

• Project Manager

• HDD Site Engineer

• HDD Rig Operator

• Surveyor / Locator

• HSE Officer

• Quality Control Engineer

Each role is responsible for ensuring compliance with the approved HDD method statement.

HDD Method Statement – Pre-Construction Activities

Site Investigation and Surveys

Before HDD works commence:

• Topographic surveys are conducted

• Geotechnical investigations are reviewed

• Existing utilities are identified and marked

• Access and working areas are assessed

These activities reduce the risk of utility strikes and drilling failure.

Bore Path Design and Engineering

The bore profile is designed considering:

• Required depth below obstacles

• Minimum allowable bend radius

• Pipe material and diameter

• Soil conditions

Bore path drawings form part of the HDD method statement submission.

HDD Equipment and Tools Selection

Equipment selection is based on:

• Bore length and diameter

• Ground conditions

• Pipe material

Typical HDD equipment includes drilling rigs, drill rods, reamers, guidance systems, and drilling fluid units.

HDD Method Statement – Mobilization and Site Setup

Entry and Exit Pit Preparation

Entry and exit pits are prepared to:

• Support drilling operations

• Collect drilling fluid returns

• Ensure safe pipe pullback

Pit dimensions are designed to suit pipe diameter and equipment.

HDD Rig Setup and Alignment

• HDD rig is positioned and leveled

• Alignment is checked against bore design

• Anchoring and stabilization are completed

Proper setup ensures drilling accuracy and safety.

Drilling Fluid Preparation and Management

Drilling fluid plays a vital role in HDD works.

Drilling Fluid Functions

• Bore stabilization

• Cuttings removal

• Lubrication

• Cooling of drilling tools

Fluid properties are monitored throughout drilling operations.

HDD Method Statement – Pilot Hole Drilling Procedure

Pilot drilling defines the final bore path and is the most critical stage.

Pilot Drilling Execution

• Steerable drill bit is advanced into the ground

• Directional adjustments are made using the drill head

• Drilling fluid is circulated continuously

• Real-time tracking monitors depth and alignment

All pilot hole data is recorded as part of quality documentation.

Steering and Guidance Systems

Guidance systems used may include:

• Walk-over locating systems

• Wireline guidance

• Gyroscopic tracking systems

The selected system depends on bore length, depth, and site constraints.

HDD Method Statement – Hole Enlargement (Reaming)

Reaming Procedure

After pilot hole completion:

• Reamer is attached to drill string

• Bore is enlarged in stages

• Multiple reaming passes may be required

Reaming reduces friction and prevents pipe damage during installation.

HDD Method Statement – Pipe Preparation and Installation

Pipe String Preparation

Before installation:

• Pipes are welded or jointed

• Welds are inspected and tested

• Pipe coatings are inspected

Proper preparation ensures safe and smooth pullback.

Pipe Pullback Procedure

• Pipe is connected to drill string

• Pullback is performed at controlled speed

• Drilling fluid is circulated to reduce friction

Pullback forces are monitored to avoid pipe overstressing.

HDD Method Statement – Completion and Restoration

Completion Activities

• Pipe is disconnected from drill string

• Installed pipeline is inspected

• As-built data is recorded

Site Restoration

• Entry and exit pits are backfilled

• Surfaces are reinstated

• Drilling fluids are disposed of responsibly

Quality Control Requirements in HDD Method Statement

Quality control is enforced at every stage.

QC Documentation Includes

• Bore logs and alignment records

• Drilling fluid reports

• Weld inspection records

• As-built drawings

DTC maintains complete quality records for all HDD works.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Requirements

HDD works must comply with:

• Saudi HSE regulations

• Project-specific safety plans

• Environmental protection standards

Key Safety Measures

• Trained operators

• Equipment inspections

• Emergency response planning

Environmental Management in HDD Works

Environmental controls include:

• Preventing drilling fluid spills

• Protecting groundwater

• Proper waste disposal

DTC applies environmentally responsible HDD practices.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation Measures

Common HDD risks include:

• Bore deviation

• Drilling fluid loss

• Ground instability

• Pipe damage

The HDD method statement defines mitigation measures for each risk.

Applications of HDD Method Statement in Saudi Arabia

The HDD method statement is applicable to:

• Municipal utility projects

• Industrial pipelines

• Oil and gas crossings

• Infrastructure and road projects

Why DTC Is a Trusted HDD Contractor in Saudi Arabia

• Strong presence in Dammam and Al Khobar

• Experienced HDD engineers and operators

• Modern drilling equipment

• Strict adherence to approved method statements

• Proven track record in trenchless projects

DTC delivers HDD works with safety, accuracy, and reliability.

Importance of a Structured HDD Method Statement

A well-defined HDD method statement:

• Reduces construction risks

• Ensures regulatory compliance

• Improves project efficiency

• Protects people, assets, and the environment

Delivering Safe and Compliant Trenchless Solutions Through HDD Method Statements

A comprehensive Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Method Statement is essential for the successful execution of trenchless construction projects in Saudi Arabia. From site investigation and pilot drilling to pipe installation and restoration, every stage must be carefully planned and controlled.

With DTC, clients gain a trenchless construction partner that understands Saudi Arabia’s ground conditions, regulatory framework, and infrastructure challenges. Across Dammam, Al Khobar, and the wider Eastern Region, DTC delivers HDD solutions governed by robust method statements that ensure safety, quality, and long-term performance.