Application of Safety Assessment Methodology (ASAM) and decision-making

The paper covers aspects of practical importance for the application of the ISAM methodology with respect to the role of decision-making and its implications. It is attempted to identify those aspects of the ISAM approach which are likely to be influenced or even determined by decision-making requirements. Options for decision-making methodologies are identified and discussed in view of their integration into an assessment process following the ISAM approach. Suggestions for the integration of assessments following the ISAM methodology into an overall assessment process applicable to real situations are given, focussing on existing situation, which often represent more difficult decision-making problems than the planning of new facilities. (author)