AWN undertake risk assessment and consequence modelling studies in a number of areas. We use the RISC HUMAN modelling software to calculate the exposure of human or environmental receptors to chemicals such as heavy metals, PAHs, dioxins and PCBs, on brownfield sites and for developments such as Waste to Energy plants.

We also undertake risk assessment and consequence modelling with respect to the implications of the Seveso II Directive (implemented in Ireland by S.I. 74 of 2006).

We focus on the on site and off site impacts associated with Seveso II sites, using modelling tools such as DNV PHAST and ERM RISKPLOT.

We provide support to the operators of Seveso II sites to ensure all risks and consequences are identified through HAZID and HAZOP studies and then we conduct modelling to ensure the land area impacted by all consequences is defined.

We also provide support and advice to developers who wish to develop sites in close proximity to Seveso sites, to advise on likely risks to the development and the mitigation measures which can be put in place to minimise risks.

We deal with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) on behalf of clients to ensure risks and consequences are fully understood and that mitigation measures are acceptable to the HSA .

The HSA is responsible for ensuring that the impacts of facilities which fall within the remit of this legislation are taken into account with respect to land use planning.

The HSA has published detailed guidelines for assessment of explosion and thermal radiation impacts, with respect to acceptable limits outside the boundary of a facility, in the event of an incident, the Authority uses the concept of dangerous dose to set the minimum distance from the point of release that various landuses could be considered appropriate.