Pathirage, C and Al-Khaili, K (2016) Disaster vulnerability of emirati energy sector and barriers to enhance resilience. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 6(4), pp. 403-414. ISSN 2044-124X
Abstract
Purpose United Arab Emirates (UAE) has experienced various natural and man-made hazards. The energy sector dominates in the UAE and protection of this critical infrastructure against any impending hazards is important. The purpose of this paper is to examine the vulnerability of Emirati energy sector, explored barriers to enhance resilience and ways to overcome identified barriers. Design/methodology/approach Study followed case study research strategy and multiple case studies; three electricity generating power plant facilities - one in Abu Dhabi, one in Dubai and one in Sharjah were selected. Data collection involved a combination of a questionnaire survey and semi-structured face-to-face interviews. In total 42 questionnaire responses and nine interviews among Emirati energy sector employees were analyzed. Findings Results indicated terrorism, atmospheric and tectonic hazards as the three main risks of vulnerability within Emirati energy sector; whereas “lack of or absence of national government legislation” and “awareness and education” are revealed as the main barriers. Improving human resource management within Emirati energy sector through better awareness, training and practices is considered as a priority. Research limitations/implications It is argued that the vulnerabilities and barriers identified in this study can be applicable to Emirati energy sector in general, not just the case studies represented in the study. Originality/value The feedback from the members of the Emirati energy sector is indicative of the latent failures and urgent issues that need to be addressed; predominately those of training, education and awareness. Findings of this study may help UAE energy sector to be prepared and build resilience for future hazards.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | barriers; disasters; hazards; UAE; energy sector; vulnerabilities |
| Index terms: | survey, Dubai, terrorism, strategy, power plant, face, human resource management, case study, legislation, interview, energy sector, critical infrastructure, United Arab Emirates, vulnerability, questionnaire, methodology |
| Subjects: | legal systems, psychology, data collection methods, environmental hazards, industry analysis, infrastructure and transport systems, Geography, research methods, terrorism studies, management |
| Topics: | Sustainability, Geographical Context, Research Practice, Engineering Principles, Business Strategy, Organizational Design, Human Resources, Legal Issues, Urban Studies |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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