Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
ships may be required to take additional measures based on the G13 Guidelines.
The risk level is a RA result and input data reliability is of key importance. The
chapter provides detailed step-by-step RA models for exemptions and for selective
BWM measures, ready to be used by administrations.
Keywords
Risk assessment Selective ballast water management Exemptions
Environmental matching method Species specifi c method Biogeographical method
Target species
Risk Assessment in Ballast Water Management
Risk Assessment and Its Key Principles
Risk
is variously defi ned as the probability that an undesired event occurs in combi-
nation with the level of impact this event causes, frequently referred to as the con-
sequence. Risk assessment (RA) is the process by which undesired events (hazards)
are identifi ed and the frequency and consequences of such undesired events are
parameterized, typically including an expression of all uncertainties in the assess-
ment process (e.g., Hewitt and Hayes
2002
).
The RA may be defi ned by the following key principles (IMO
2007
):
Effectiveness
- RA accurately measures the risks to the necessary extent to
achieve an appropriate level of protection.
Transparency
- Reasoning and evidence supports the RA recommended action
and uncertainty areas (as well as their possible consequences to those recom-
mendations), are documented clearly and made available to decision-makers.
Consistency
- RA achieves a uniform high performance level, using a common
process and methodology.
Comprehensiveness
- The full range of possibly affected values, including eco-
nomic, environmental, social and cultural, will be considered when assessing
risks and in the decision making process.
Risk Management
- Although risk scenarios exist, zero risk is not achievable,
and therefore a risk should be managed by determining its acceptable level in
each instance.
Precautionary
- RA incorporates a level of precaution when making assump-
tions and recommendations. This is to account for uncertainty, unreliability, and
inadequacy of data. The absence of, or uncertainty regarding any data should
therefore be considered as an indicator of potential risk.
Science based
- RA is to be based on the best available information that has
been collected and analysed by scientifi c methods. Minimum data quality stan-
dards permitting a RA may be agreed.
Continuous improvement
- Any risk model should be reviewed and updated
periodically to account for an improved understanding.
Search WWH ::
Custom Search