PANDEMIC RESILIENCE: ANALYSING THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY'S RESPONSE TO COVID-19 AND ITS IMPACT ON EMPLOYEE WORK ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

This research investigates the strategies and measures implemented by the oil and gas industry to bolster its pandemic resilience and the subsequent effects on the work environment of employees during the COVID-19 crisis. It also endeavors to gauge the satisfaction levels stemming from the work environment shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing a descriptive research design, data was collected through a survey method. The study focused on employees within the oil and gas sector in Gujarat, with 418 respondents participating via a structured questionnaire distributed through simple random sampling.  The findings revealed a substantial part of the workforce, particularly field employees and machine operators, transitioned to remote work during the pandemic, indicating the industry's adaptability in the face of shifting work environments. While a significant number of employees received the necessary resources for remote work, there was room for improvement, especially among machine operators and employers. This highlights the need for enhanced support in specific areas. The study underscored the extensive impact of the pandemic on employees' physical and mental well-being, emphasizing the urgency of comprehensive support and initiatives within the industry. Respondents generally perceived the effective implementation of health and safety measures, signifying a positive approach to employee well-being and safety. Disruptions in the supply chain were prevalent during the pandemic, with potential implications for the industry's operational aspects, underscoring the significance of bolstering supply chain resilience. The data also indicated the pandemic's influence on employees' perceptions of job security, particularly among field employees, necessitating the development of tailored strategies to address these concerns. Furthermore, the study highlighted the industry's proactive approach to training and development related to pandemic preparedness, reflecting a commitment to employee readiness. Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, a significant proportion of employees reported a positive sense of camaraderie and teamwork within their organizations, signifying a resilient organizational culture. Statistical analysis uncovered a significant association between respondents' designations and their satisfaction levels with communication and updates during the pandemic, emphasizing the necessity for further exploration of this relationship.

Keywords: oil and gas industry, pandemic resilience, COVID-19, employee work environment, job responsibilities, gender imbalance, age diversity, remote work, well-being, health and safety measures, supply chain disruptions, job security, training and development, camaraderie, satisfaction levels, Gujarat.