Understanding Natech Risk Perception and Adjustment of Households Living near Industrial Areas in Osaka Bay

Abstract

This research project collected data based on a stratified random mail survey from two communities in Sakai (Osaka, Japan) and Higashinada (Kobe, Japan) living within two kilometers from industrial parks. The questionnaires focused on household awareness, risk perception and hazard adjustments for earthquakes, tsunamis, and chemical and natural hazard triggered chemical accidents (known as Natech) accidents. Furthermore, we also examined household views (acceptance, trust, and information needed) towards local government and industries’ ability to protect them under the risk of earthquake, tsunami, and chemical and Natech accidents. Our findings show that in both surveyed areas, households are well prepared for earthquakes and tsunami, but not for chemical and Natech accidents. Risk perception concerning earthquakes and tsunami were higher in both areas than for chemical and Natech accidents. This study found that households’ level of trust in government’s ability to protect them under the risk of chemical and Natech accidents was low. Respondents had more trust in local government’s ability to protect them against earthquake and tsunami threats. The study results demonstrate the need to provide better information to residents living near industrial parks regarding the risks they are subject to and the types of protective actions they can take if an accident occurs alone or concurrent with an earthquake and/ or tsunami.