Emergency Preparedness FAQs

The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant is one of the most modern nuclear energy facilities in the world. It features multiple, state-of-the-art safety systems that are designed to keep the plant safe, and prevent the release of radioactive materials, even in the most extreme circumstances.

Safety is our number one priority, and the operation of the Barakah plant is highly regulated by the UAE’s independent nuclear regulator, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR). Our safety standards meet all national regulatory and international standards, and our emergency arrangements are rigorously planned and rehearsed.

In the highly unlikely event of an emergency at the Barakah plant, we aim to protect:

The people and communities around the plant
Our people working at the plant
The environment around us
Those managing the plant and returning it to a safe condition

In the extremely unlikely circumstances of a release of radiation at the plant, there are a number of simple actions that all members of the public should follow.

How will I know if there is an incident at Barakah?

If an emergency is declared at the plant, the site alarms will sound and workers will move to designated areas.

We will keep you informed through local loudspeaker announcements, emergency services and through the local media.

How do I know if I live in the area affected by an accident?

There are a limited number of people living in the immediate vicinity of the Barakah plant and we have a number of systems in place to inform them in the unlikely case of an emergency.

In the area immediately around the plant (up to 16kms) Emergency Responders will take immediate action to protect the public and environment in this area.

Further away from the plant (up to 80km) Emergency Responders will inform you of any action you need to take, if at all necessary.

What should I do to stay safe?

In the unlikely event of a release of radioactivity from the Barakah plant, you should take the following actions:

Go In
- If you are outside go back into your home or the nearest building
- If appropriate, take pets with you
- Close all doors and windows, and close any ventilation points and/or air conditioning units
Stay In
- Once inside your home or other building, do not go outside again until you are told it is safe to do so
Listen In
- Listen to local radio or TV stations, they will give you all the information you need

Additionally:
- If you are driving do not go into the area near the energy plant, make sure you close windows and ventilators in your car
- Do not take food or vegetables from your garden – but note that any food already inside the house will be safe to eat

Could I be asked to leave my home?

It is possible that in the highly unlikely event of a major incident you could be asked to leave your home and to make your way to a designated reception center. In these circumstances, you need to:

Make sure you take your ID card
Take any medicines or special dietary food that you might need
Make sure you secure your home, closing all windows and locking all doors
If you need transportation or have mobility issues contact the local police who will help with transport
If you drive yourself, make sure your car windows and AC vents are closed
Leave a note or hang a towel on your doors so the emergency teams will know you have left

What happens at the reception center?

Your name and address will be noted and you may be asked to produce your Emirates ID card
You will be provided with food and water and, if appropriate, accommodation
Medical services will be available
You will be kept up to date with what is happening on the site, and told when it is safe to return home
If the circumstances demand it, you may be asked to take special stable Iodine tablets. These are quite safe to take and protect your thyroid glands against any iodine that might be released in the event of a serious emergency at the power plant
If you are taking other medicines, or have any concerns about taking these tablets, the medical teams at the reception center will be on hand to give more advice