On the relationship between risk control and risk potential for major hazardous industries in the EU

摘要

Technological progress is directed towards fulfilling human needs for development and progress. At the same time, the detriments or accidental risks arising from the use of specific technologies cannot be avoided. Risk-informed methods provide various qualitative and quantitative measures that can significantly support consistent decision making on managing accidental risks related to a specific technology across its entire life cycle. However, these methods rarely consider the requirements of individuals who suddenly find themselves in need of information, practical emergency assistance or financial compensation for damages suffered. The liability for a risk that materialises almost always depends on whether the risk or underlying hazard was knowable, and the materialisation of the risk foreseeable. This paper maps current European Union regulations on managing the risks related to the operation of fixed industrial installations for energy production (nuclear, hydro dams) and the chemical process industry.