Iranian South Medical Journal (Jan 2019)
Factors Related to the Health of Employees and Residents of Pars Special Economic Energy Zone Camps: A Qualitative Study
Abstract
Background: South Pars gas field is the world's largest gas field and the capital of energy in Iran. The oil and gas industry exerts potential effects on the health and culture of its surrounding community. The sustainability requirements of development projects include local participation, human sustainability and social sustainability. The present study was conducted to investigate health-associated challenges and their effective causes and solutions from the perspective of the residents of the camps and the staff of Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (PSEEZ) as stakeholders and participants in the development projects. Materials and Methods: The present qualitative study was conducted on a population comprising two groups, including the staff of the region’s industry and the residents of camps. Purposive sampling was used to collect data using four methods, including library studies, holding group discussion sessions and surveying the staff, ethnographic observations and focus group discussion. The data were collected from the questions raised and content analysis was performed. Results: Inadequate living facilities and space, insufficient facilities for recreation and exercise, failing to comply with health standards and requirements, addition and psychological illnesses were proposed as the main problems in the region. The solutions proposed by the employees in the region included planning and enforcing its implementation, forcing employers to meet the minimum health standards, financing or attracting investments for recreational and welfare facilities and teaching safety precautions and health points to the residents and employees. Conclusion: The root cause of the problems is mainly operational and structural. Most of the solutions are therefore compulsory, including obligations such as forcing contractors to meet the requirements, changing welfare regulations and following a legally-enforced program.
