Environmental quality assessment and modelling in high-risk industrial sites in Latvia

The industrial risk situation during the past 20 years in 50 high-risk industrial sites in Latvia was investigated. Overall, the study results show that the level of industrial risk within Latvia's high-risk companies has fallen significantly. Modernisation of equipment and automation of process management were deemed to be the most effective risk reduction measures. A great deal of experience has accumulated in Latvia in the field of quantitative risk assessment. However, the comparability of the results of the work carried out is limited, because different input data and assumptions have been utilised in the calculations by various specialists. Computer modelling of the harmful impact zones resulting from accidents should be consolidated in risk assessments so that as far as possible the harmful effects on human health and the environment arising from accidents can be assessed more comprehensively and diversely. There is a need to develop common methods for probabilistic risk assessment. The study also shows that, in contrast to many European countries, acceptable risk norms are yet to be ratified in Latvia which is hindering the formulation and implementation of targeted risk reduction policy by executive governmental institutions.