Evaluating the Effectiveness of Process Safety and Loss Prevention Measures in the Water Desalination Industry: A Survey Study in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

In the context of Saudi Arabia’s growing reliance on desalination for water supply, the safety management of desalination plants is critical yet under-researched, particularly concerning the integration of process safety and loss prevention measures. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the effectiveness of these safety measures, focusing on factors such as safety awareness, technological advancements, emergency response protocols, organizational culture, communication, and environmental sustainability practices. This research was conducted through an online survey using the Qualtrics platform, targeting 150 participants in Saudi Arabia’s desalination sector. Participants were selected using convenience sampling, representing diverse roles and professional experiences. Data were analysed using SPSS Version 28, with descriptive and inferential statistical tools employed to assess the relationships between the variables across six key safety scales. Of the 150 participants, 60% were male and 40% were female. The study tested six hypotheses on the effectiveness of safety and environmental practices in desalination plants. A significant positive correlation was found between safety awareness and the effectiveness of safety measures, supported by a mean score of 4.23 with a p-value of <0.001. Similarly, the reliability of modern safety technology was positively correlated with safety effectiveness (Spearman’s rho = 0.387, p < 0.001). However, the study revealed that communication during emergencies, while generally effective, showed areas for improvement. The analysis also highlighted that robust environmental safety practices are positively associated with enhanced safety outcomes, with a Kruskal-Wallis H test result showing a significant difference across varying levels of environmental practices (p = 0.005). The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive safety management in Saudi Arabia’s desalination industry, revealing strengths and areas needing improvement. Advanced technologies and a strong safety culture are critical for enhancing operational safety, but attention must also be given to improving communication and specific environmental initiatives. These insights offer a valuable reference for industry stakeholders and policymakers aiming to enhance safety protocols in desalination operations, suggesting the need for continued research into integrating technological advancements with effective safety management practices.