An integrated risk communication system for the transport of hazardous materials

Abstract

This paper describes the development and implementation of the prototype of an internet-based risk communication system for the transport of hazardous materials. The system was designed with the objectives of (1) incorporating functionality and features that are useful for meeting a variety of risk communication needs and (2) demonstrating a high degree of interaction among system components, enabling customisation to meet the specific transport risk communication requirements of the host organisation. To demonstrate 'proof of concept', the system is applied to two scenarios: building knowledge and awareness, focusing on how information can be entered, organised and disseminated to the public and other transport stakeholders, and emergency management, utilising the system for securely managing information in responding to a transport incident involving hazardous materials. The effectiveness of the system in these applications is subsequently discussed.