Disaster vulnerability of Emirati energy sector and barriers to enhance resilience

Pathirage, C; Al-Khaili, KSK

Abstract

Purpose: 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. This paper examined 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 9 interviews among Emirati energy sector employees were analysed.
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.

Citation

Pathirage, C., & Al-Khaili, K. (2016). Disaster vulnerability of Emirati energy sector and barriers to enhance resilience. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 6(4), 403-414. https://doi.org/10.1108/BEPAM-08-2015-0035

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 9, 2016
• Publication Date: May 9, 2016
• Deposit Date: Apr 5, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 27, 2017
• Journal: Built Environment Project and Asset Management
• Print ISSN: 2044-124X
• Publisher: Emerald
• Volume: 6
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 403-414
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/BEPAM-08-2015-0035
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/BEPAM-08-2015-0035
• Related Public URLs: http://www.emeraldinsight.com/loi/bepam