1. European regulations: Seveso directive

The Seveso Directive is a specifically European regulation, unique in its degree of risk control. However, other regulations around the world aim to achieve the same objective.

One example is the US "Risk Management Programm (RMP) Rule", which requires manufacturers producing, handling, storing or distributing certain hazardous products to develop a risk management program and prepare a risk management plan (RMP) for submission to the relevant authority (EPA: Environmental Protection Agency). The EPA provides an exhaustive list of the chemicals covered by this regulation, as well as associated guides.

Companies "classified" as RMP must present an analysis of off-site consequences, the site's accident history over the last five years, a prevention program and an emergency response program. This plan is forwarded to the Administration and...