Advancing understanding of vulnerability assessment in process industries: a systematic review of methods and approaches

In the context of process safety, vulnerability refers to the inherent susceptibility of a process industry to exacerbate the potential for escalating negative outcomes resulting from natural or man-made disturbances. Conducting vulnerability assessments is crucial in identifying potential hazards and formulating effective risk management strategies to prevent accidents, thereby ensuring the safety of individuals and the environment within process industries. However, there is evident scope for further enhancement in this domain, specifically with regards to adequately addressing uncertainties associated with human behavior. This study aimed to investigate vulnerability assessments in the process industries through a systematic review. The primary objective was to analyze the existing literature in this field. The review focused on identifying relevant publications published between 2010 and 2022 and explored different categories of vulnerabilities, such as human, physical, social, and safety vulnerabilities. Multiple approaches were utilized in assessing vulnerability, including index systems, graph theory, decision-making methods, and modeling techniques. The utilization of 2D or 3D vulnerability maps within Geographic Information Systems (GIS), combined with the implementation of cellular automata and Bayesian network theory, has demonstrated enhanced precision in depicting vulnerable areas. This research critically examines the merits and drawbacks of these various methodologies, while also offering suggestions for future studies aimed at refining vulnerability assessment techniques to bolster the safety and security of process industries. In essence, this article underscores the significance of vulnerability assessment in mitigating potential risks and hazards in process industries, providing a valuable reference for researchers and practitioners invested in this domain.