Title: Vulnerability of complex critical systems: case water supply and distribution networks

Authors: Anna-Mari Heikkila, Riitta Molarius, Teuvo Uusitalo

Addresses: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tekniikankatu 1, P.O. Box 1300, FIN-33101 Tampere, Finland. ' VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tekniikankatu 1, P.O. Box 1300, FIN-33101 Tampere, Finland. ' VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Tekniikankatu 1, P.O. Box 1300, FIN-33101 Tampere, Finland

Abstract: Management of complex, interdependent critical infrastructures demands systematic continuity evaluations and capability building for abnormal as well as normal conditions. The changing risk and threat environment creates new vulnerabilities that require an extensive approach to control weak points and support the undisturbed and reliable functions of critical infrastructures. The water contamination case is used to illustrate the complexity of today|s changing risk environment. It also showed that without well-established risk analysis the aftermath could be drastic due to the inadequate link between risk analysis and continuity plans.

Keywords: vulnerability; critical infrastructures; business continuity; water supply; water contamination; complex critical systems; risk management; Finland; distribution networks; interdependent infrastructures; risk assessment; water pollution.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAM.2011.042119

International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management, 2011 Vol.15 No.2/3, pp.241 - 257

Published online: 28 Feb 2015 *

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