Project tree

The project tree in RISKCURVES is a crucial component of the software user interface, designed to facilitate easy navigation and organisation of various project elements. This hierarchical structure organises all user input and project components, allowing users to manage their data efficiently. The project tree contains a series of tree nodes as seen in the figure below:

The project tree in RISKCURVES is very similar to the project tree in EFFECTS, but it contains a few additional nodes due to this tool being used for Quantitative Risk Assessments (QRA). Therefore, additional input is required such as the meteorological distribution, population distribution, failure frequencies, probabilities, etc.

The top node is a typical placeholder for all user input. The name of this node reflects the current project filename and can only be changed through the "File - Save As…" option. The hierarchical tree view under the top node organises the project's elements, making navigation easy and intuitive.

Project tree components

The project tree comprises several key nodes and settings that users need to be familiar with, including:

• Presentation settings: These settings allow the customisation of the appearance of the results, although the numerical results remain the same.

• Backgrounds: This node allows users to incorporate different background images or maps into their project to aid spatial analysis.

• Calculation sets: A placeholder for a complete QRA calculation, producing risk results. It includes system settings, meteorological data, population information, and scenarios.

• Equipment: This node is used to define the location of stationary process equipment such as storage tanks, heat exchangers, reactors, etc. and transportation equipment such as pipelines, railroads, trucks or tankers where an accidental release occurs.

• Scenario: Details a "Loss of Containment" event linked to specific equipment (transport or stationary) in two parts, the failure frequency for the scenario and consequence modelling.

• Consequence Risk: Incorporates consequence risk calculation as exceeding specified threshold levels for a combination of physical effects.

• IRPA: Incorporates IRPA calculation, correcting for occupancy and potential protection factors within an occupied building.

• Analysis points: Used to report risk contribution at specific user-definable locations.

• Imported calculations: Allows inclusion of risk results from other (partial) projects into the current project.

• Cumulation sets: Creates a dedicated accumulation of risk sources that do not contain all equipment or all scenarios, presenting corresponding risk results.

• Comparison set: Enables users to compare different scenarios or calculation sets within the same project, useful for conducting sensitivity analyses and optimising safety measures.

Navigating through the project tree

The project tree is designed to streamline the workflow. By understanding and utilising each component effectively, users can manage their projects more efficiently, ensuring accurate and comprehensive modelling of accidental releases of hazardous chemical substances.

Some tips for effective use are as follows:

• Expand and collapse nodes: Click on the arrows next to each node to expand or collapse sections, making it easier to navigate through the project components.

• Right-click for options: Right-clicking on different nodes often provides additional options or shortcuts specific to that component.

• Organize your data: Use the hierarchical structure to logically organise your data, which will help in managing large and complex projects.

• Regular saves: Frequently save your project to avoid data loss, especially after making significant changes.

By following these guidelines, users can take full advantage of the project tree's capabilities, leading to more efficient and effective project management within the EFFECTS software.

Conclusion

The project tree in RISKCURVES is crucial for organising user input and components efficiently. It includes key elements like presentation settings, backgrounds, calculation sets, equipment, scenarios, consequence risk, and more. Understanding and utilising each component optimises workflow and ensures accurate modelling. Tips for effective use include expanding/collapsing nodes, utilising right-click options, organising data logically, and regular saving. Mastering the project tree enhances project management efficiency in RISKCURVES.