Modelling and Hazard Analysis for Contaminated Sediments Using STAMP Model

Processes for remediation (removal of pollution or contaminants) of contaminated sediments have become very efficient. These technologies, which are particularly complex, call for a comprehensive approach to risk analysis which characterises all threats (to humans, equipment, local residents, the environment etc.). The STAMP accident model (Systems-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes) is an example of such a comprehensive approach, and it has been chosen to characterise the risks associated with Novosol®, an innovative remediation process. Risk analysis is carried out through the application of STPA (STamP-based Analysis). This article is organised into three sections. The first describes the Novosol® process for treating contaminated sediments. The second introduces the STAMP accident model, together with the associated technique STPA (which can be used both to evaluate safety and to perform accident analysis). Finally, the third section describes the concrete application of the STPA technique to the Novosol® process.