The Use of Grey Systems Theory to Analyze the Water Supply Systems Safety

摘要

New requirements for water supply companies enforce the implementation of risk analysis and assessment methods on many levels of their operation. The approach recommended by the World Health Organization and the European Commission based on threats prevention from intake to water consumers is becoming more and more popular. The paper presents a three-parameter risk matrix that can be used for the implementation of Water Safety Plans. It was also proposed to use the grey systems theory, which allowed for the extension of the risk matrix analysis method. The grey systems theory makes it possible to make decisions in the lack of complete information. This may be of particular importance in the small water supply systems safety analysis where monitoring and management capabilities are limited. The developed method may constitute basis for procedures to ensure the water supply safety for water supply system operators, burdened with more and more obligations resulting from both national and European regulations.