Every engineering decision involves risk, but how can engineers move beyond subjective assessments to quantify the likelihood and consequences of potentially hazardous events?
This session introduces Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA), a systematic approach to evaluating risks to people, infrastructure, the environment, and business operations. Drawing on European and U.S. practices, David Russell will explore methods for estimating accident probabilities, evaluating potential consequences, and identifying opportunities to reduce risk.
Attendees will be introduced to the European Colored Books on risk assessment, statistical approaches to evaluating rare but potentially catastrophic events, and practical analytical tools including event trees and consequence modeling. The presentation incorporates industrial and transportation-related risk data, along with hypothetical chemical release scenarios in California and Georgia, to demonstrate how quantitative methods can support engineering decisions.
Designed for engineers across multiple disciplines, this session offers a broader perspective on identifying, communicating, and managing risk in engineering practice.
Presented by:
David L. Russell, PE, ASP, is President of Global Environmental Operations, Inc., an environmental engineering and consulting firm based in Lilburn, Georgia. He has more than 40 years of experience in environmental and chemical engineering, hazardous materials management, industrial safety, and risk assessment.
Russell has worked internationally as an engineering consultant, technical expert, author, and instructor, providing training on environmental protection, chemical engineering, and industrial safety. He has authored numerous technical articles and several books, including Practical Wastewater Treatment, Remediation of Contaminated Sites, and Industrial Security: Managing Security in the 21st Century.
His work combines practical engineering experience with technical analysis to address environmental, industrial, and public safety challenges.
Dave will present at 1:30 PM for PDH Day. Registration is available: https://gspe.org/pdh-day/