Ebola Outbreak Preparedness and Response - A Nigerian Oil and Gas Company Experience

Abstract

Objectives / scope A framework of Company's strategic and calculated preparedness and response to outbreaks with diminished adverse outcomes is presented. It is based on Nigeria Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak and its potential impact on country oil and gas operations. It describes the model of engaging stakeholders in all stages of an outbreak, culminating in lessons learned. Methods, procedures, process The EVD outbreak had potential for cataclysmic impact on workers, families and communities in Nigeria. The Company leveraged on a hybrid of outbreak management framework based on a pre-existing infectious disease outbreak management, pandemic planning and stakeholder engagement. A series of partnerships was established to provide an effective response towards protecting workers and their families; including working partnerships with Ebola Emergency Operations Center (EEOC), International SOS, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Baylor College of Medicine. In-house capacity building was enhanced and included training Company healthcare staff in safeguarding their health and safety, while establishing ‘fever assessment’ centers. Results, observations, conclusions The strategic preparedness and response is described with the successful partnerships and enhanced alignment of key objectives, between in-country management, internal and external stakeholders. Communication and coordination with Company headquarters and external experts resulted in extensive training of health care providers and development of risk-based educational material for workers and dependents. In total about 1400 employees and healthcare providers were trained. The Company also achieved 100% worksite screening procedures which were implemented throughout the duration of outbreak resulting in no loss time recorded due to the outbreak. Provision of support to Nigerian government including efforts on contact tracing, led to the national recognition of Company for her community investments. Positive and proactive influence by partnering with the oil and gas industry and government to respond to the outbreak, ensuring robust business continuity planning and testing, showed the company's dedication to honoring commitment to our partners and stakeholders whilst protecting the workers and families. Paper benefits The experiences and lessons learned are important to share widely. They will assist others in the industry as preparations are made to attain readiness to deal with future public health challenges (not just EVD). An effective response requires the establishment of several partnerships across a wide range of stakeholders