Environmental Risk AssessmentMore than ever, corporate interests are undertaking environmental risk assessment at their commercial facilities to reduce costs and to reduce environmental liability. Risk Assessment (RA) analyzes the potential for environmental problems to occur. Risk is a measure of the likelihood of an event occurring combined with a measure of the severity of the consequence. For instance, at a site where oil is stored, a risk of tank failure may be identified. If the tank is in poor condition and unprotected, there is a greater likelihood that the tank could leak. Furthermore, if the tank was situated close to a sensitive ecological receiver, such as a watercourse, the consequence of a spill would be major with serious cost implications. Using these two factors, the risk of tank failure in this case may be classified as high. Costs can be saved not only by reducing the potential for catastrophic events at a facility but also by implementing an organized methodical approach to issues. Other than identification, and management of risk, the implementation of a risk management plan has several benefits. Some of these include: - Decreasing potential liabilities;
- Identifying opportunities for improvement and cost savings;
- Improving employee awareness of environmental risks;
- Assisting in maintaining regulatory compliance;
- Lowering insurance costs;
- Facilitating environmental due diligence,
- Taking a common sense, user friendly approach to managing environmental risks; and,
- Providing an essential step towards the development of an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System (EMS).
Strum's specialists can work with your facility's team to assess risk. Our trained professionals will then identify key actual or potential problems and look for opportunities to effectively reduce that risk. We can also provide training associated with the implementation of Environmental Management System (EMS) to get your team focused on long term sustainable management at your site.
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