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Kateřina Symonová (VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, CZ): Analysis of Gaseous Products from the Primary Phase of Forest Fires Using an Indicator-Based Approach

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Kateřina Symonová (VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, CZ): Analysis of Gaseous Products from the Primary Phase of Forest Fires Using an Indicator-Based Approach

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Forest fires pose a significant threat to ecosystems worldwide, and early detection is crucial for minimizing damage. This study simulates the primary phase of forest fires in a laboratory setting, analyzing the gaseous products emitted from forest litter of deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forests. Using a tube furnace and FTIR spectrometer, we identified key flue gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, and hydrogen cyanide. Additionally, unexpected hazardous compounds like formaldehyde, pinene, and ammonia were detected, varying by forest type and sample humidity. Detectable gas concentrations emerged at 400°C, marking the end of the primary fire phase. While the current results highlight the complexity of forest fire emissions, practical application in real-time fire detection remains a challenge. However, this research offers valuable insights into potential detection methods, with implications for developing early warning systems and improving fire management strategies in the future.

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Sallu Jaward (Coventry University, UK): Assesment of Flooding Vunerability in Sierra Leone - using an indicator-based approach 

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Sallu Jaward (Coventry University, UK): Assesment of Flooding Vunerability in Sierra Leone - using an indicator-based approach 

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Flooding is a major natural hazard in Sierra Leone, exacerbated by rapid urbanization, poor waste management, climate change, and inadequate drainage systems. These factors increase the risks for vulnerable households, businesses, and coastal communities. This study seeks to enhance understanding of the country's flood vulnerability and develop effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. Using a mixed-methods approach, with a stratified sample size of 600 for surveys and 18 research participants for interviews, the research identified key vulnerability indicators, including housing location, construction materials, and socio-economic factors such as education and employment status. The main drivers of flooding were both natural (rainfall patterns) and human-induced (urbanization and deforestation). Barriers to effective flood management included limited financial resources, low public awareness, and insufficient institutional capacity. The study recommends better urban planning, increased support for vulnerable populations, economic resilience measures, and strengthened institutional frameworks. These findings provide a foundation for policy development and targeted interventions to reduce flood risks and enhance community resilience in Sierra Leone.

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Oghenenyoreme Sharon Fanama (Conventry University, UK): Evaluating Preparedness for Flooding in Communities in Yenagoa Local Government, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

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Oghenenyoreme Sharon Fanama (Conventry University, UK): Evaluating Preparedness for Flooding in Communities in Yenagoa Local Government, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

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Bayelsa State, Nigeria, is highly susceptible to flooding due to its low-lying geography. This study evaluates flood preparedness in Yenagoa, the state capital, focusing on the 2022 flood disaster. Despite disaster risk management policies and agencies like NEMA, significant gaps persist between strategic plans and actual implementation. Obstacles such as financial constraints, interagency competition, and political apathy hinder proactive disaster management, resulting in reactive responses rather than preventive measures. High poverty levels further exacerbate vulnerability, limiting the resources available for effective preparedness. The research assesses community awareness of flood risks and evaluates the effectiveness of preparedness strategies. Findings highlight the need for enhanced grassroots participation, better communication, and the integration of both structural and non-structural resources to build resilience in Yenagoa's flood-prone communities.

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Elia Buttolo (University of Trieste and Udine, IT): Airborne Exposure Assessment of Gallium Arsenide Nanoparticles in Research Laboratories

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Elia Buttolo (University of Trieste and Udine, IT): Airborne Exposure Assessment of Gallium Arsenide Nanoparticles in Research Laboratories

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Gallium arsenide (GaAs) is an intermetallic crystalline solid composed of arsenic (As) and gallium (Ga), used in the electronic and optoelectronic industries. GaAs is highly toxic to the organism and is carcinogenic. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the concentration of GaAs nanoparticles in the air.

The survey was carried out utilizing a multilevel method over the course of a working week. The IOM sampler and miniature diffusion size classifier (DiSCMini) were used to implement personal monitoring.

Median number of nanoparticles detected during laboratory activities was low (median=913 np/cm³; 25° percentile=653 np/cm³; 75° percentile=1310653 np/cm³), however detecting the presence of exposure peaks during cutting operations of GaAs samples under a fume hood (88883 np/cm³). The analysis of the filters relating to the IOM personal sampler highlighted a median weekly concentration of 80.5 ng/m³ of gallium and 37.4 ng/m³ of arsenic.

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Alessandro Siddi (University of Trieste and Udine, IT): Exposure to ultrafine particles in a cast iron foundry

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Alessandro Siddi (University of Trieste and Udine, IT): Exposure to ultrafine particles in a cast iron foundry

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The presence of ultrafine particles in a cast iron foundry in the North-East of Italy was analyzed and evaluated. To this end, the presence of fundamental components in the various production departments was taken into account. LDSA (Lung Deposited Surface Area), particle size and finally the number of particles sampled. In addition, within this study, a comparison was made between the presence of ultrafine particles before and after installation of an aspiration system in a specific area of the foundry to assess its effectiveness. The data obtained from this study clearly show that the department and the processes carried out inside are the main variables of the exposure to ultrafine particles in the cast iron foundries. It is also evident that the intervention implemented to ensure a better aspiration of the room, has significantly lowered the concentrations of ultrafine particles in the department involved.

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Gonçalo Ferreira (ISEC Lisboa, PT): Safety and Security at summer festivals. Tackling the overtourism challenge

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Gonçalo Ferreira (ISEC Lisboa, PT): Safety and Security at summer festivals. Tackling the overtourism challenge

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This work addresses the safety and security challenges associated with overtourism in Portuguese municipalities hosting large-scale summer festivals. Currently, 35 festivals are spread across 21 municipalities, with a significant number held in areas vulnerable to coastal erosion (14.29%), wildfires (22.86%), and protected zones (8.57%). The influx of visitors during these events dramatically increases local populations, as seen in Vilar de Mouros (9,655%), Odemira (844%), and Idanha-a-Nova (366%). To mitigate the risks posed by overcrowding, this study proposes key measures such as the implementation of Contingency and Crowd Management Plans with clear evacuation routes, continuous training for security teams, and real-time monitoring of infrastructure and weather conditions in high-risk areas. Decentralizing festivals to less saturated regions and promoting sustainable public transport are also recommended to reduce environmental impact and ensure long-term sustainability. The study highlights the critical importance of effective planning to safeguard both local communities and festival attendees.

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Tommaso Peruccio & Dario Colombo (University of Genoa, IT): Seismic risk assessment of residential buildings in the Foce district of Genoa

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Tommaso Peruccio & Dario Colombo (University of Genoa, IT): Seismic risk assessment of residential buildings in the Foce district of Genoa

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The thesis aims to evaluate the seismic vulnerability of the Genoese district Foce using GIS tools to create maps representing the vulnerability of buildings.

The goal is to outline a systematic and automatable procedure that can be applied to other districts, ultimately leading to a seismic risk map for the entire city of Genoa.

The process begins by identifying the necessary parameters for evaluating seismic vulnerability. Data were collected from ISTAT, the Geoportal website, and field surveys. Using a mathematical model, the vulnerability of the buildings was calculated, and maps were generated to illustrate the findings.

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Matilda Graffione (University of Genoa, IT): GIS-based analysis of landslides predisposing factors along the Italian Railway Network

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Matilda Graffione (University of Genoa, IT): GIS-based analysis of landslides predisposing factors along the Italian Railway Network

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This thesis analyzes the Italian railway network to identify areas most prone to landslides, given the critical role of the infrastructure for transporting goods and people. The analysis was conducted using the open-source GIS software QGIS and integrates geological, geomorphological, climatic, and anthropogenic data. Relevant land factors contributing to landslide phenomena were identified and classified. Railway sections crossing historically landslide-prone areas were determined by intersecting the network with the Inventory of Landslide Phenomena in Italy. The study correlated land features with landslides reported in the landslides inventory, using two methodologies to assess landslide distribution and the susceptibility of each factor class. A Relative Landsliding Index was calculated for each class, indicating the ratio of landslide area to non-landslide area. A Total Relative Landsliding Index was then defined to identify the most vulnerable areas overall. Finally, intersections between railroads and critical landslide points were identified, highlighting sections with a higher risk of landslide events.

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Tori Ceusters (University of Antwerp, BE): Stress and Safety Performance in the Transportation of Radioactive Materials - a Mixed Methods Research

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Tori Ceusters (University of Antwerp, BE): Stress and Safety Performance in the Transportation of Radioactive Materials - a Mixed Methods Research

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This study examines how stress can contribute to a more holistic approach to safety in the transportation of radioactive materials (ADR Class 7). Using a mixed-methods approach, including a survey (n=58) and in-depth interviews (n=5), the correlation between stress components and safety performance (i.e., safety compliance, safety participation, and safety adaptation) was assessed. Results indicate a negative correlation between performance constraints, work interruptions, uncertainties, time pressure and safety compliance. Accident risk, the most prominent stressor, is positively linked to safety compliance. Qualitative insights suggest a potential connection between stress and safety adaptation, despite not being evident in the quantitative results. This research indicates that stress can indeed contribute to a more holistic approach to safety. By reflecting the realities faced by ADR Class 7 drivers, the study provides valuable insights for developing a comprehensive safety approach that balances regulatory compliance with the flexibility needed to address real-world challenges.

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Axelle Amelynck (University of Antwerp, BE): Entangled in the ISPS Code: A stakeholder mapping of perspectives on the ISPS policy in the ports of Bruges and Antwerp

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Axelle Amelynck (University of Antwerp, BE): Entangled in the ISPS Code: A stakeholder mapping of perspectives on the ISPS policy in the ports of Bruges and Antwerp

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This research focuses on the implementation and consequences of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) at port facilities, with a specific emphasis on transit and Seveso port facilities in Zeebrugge and Antwerp. The ISPS Code, emerging from the necessity to respond to terrorism, remains a crucial instrument for the security of port facilities worldwide. However, the implementation and consequences of the ISPS standards vary between different types of port facilities and even between companies within the same sector.

This study establishes a risk profile based on the sector in which a port facility operates. Additionally, this thesis analyzes the perceptions and experiences of port authorities, companies, and experts regarding the ISPS Code, as well as the challenges and variations in its application. The findings highlight the complexity of the Code and the need for continuous evaluation and adjustment to improve the security of port facilities.

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Raul Oliva (ISEC Lisboa, PT): Preparing resilient communities to mitigate risk. Bairro da Encosta da Luz case study

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Raul Oliva (ISEC Lisboa, PT): Preparing resilient communities to mitigate risk. Bairro da Encosta da Luz case study

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The rapidly evolving global landscape, marked by social and economic changes and the increasing frequency of climate-related natural disasters, poses significant challenges for communities worldwide. Building resilience against disaster risks has become a critical global priority. In recent years, urban resilience has garnered attention from researchers and policymakers, as cities are especially vulnerable to these threats. In response, the United Nations launched the Resilient Cities Program, which emphasizes prevention, preparedness, and proactive strategies to mitigate risks. This program underscores the importance of collaboration among local and international stakeholders to strengthen urban resilience. This study focuses on assessing the preparedness of the Bairro da Encosta da Luz community in Odivelas. Methodologies included bibliographic research, surveys, and stakeholder interviews. Key findings highlight the need for community involvement in land maintenance, legal recognition of Encosta da Luz, comprehensive transportation planning, modern surveillance systems, recreational spaces, and training for emergency response.

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Emma Newberry (Coventry University, UK): Road to Resilience. The Need for Community Resilience and Preparedness for the next Alpine Fault Earthquake (AF8) in the Nelson Tasman region, New Zealand

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Emma Newberry (Coventry University, UK): Road to Resilience. The Need for Community Resilience and Preparedness for the next Alpine Fault Earthquake (AF8) in the Nelson Tasman region, New Zealand

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This research focused on the Nelson Tasman region of Te Waipounamu, New Zealand’s South Island, where there is a strong “she’ll be right” culture; people are generally not concerned about earthquake hazards.

The purpose of this study was to understand the level of preparedness in the Nelson Tasman region, for the next Alpine Fault earthquake, and recognise how community resilience can be improved upon.

Methods: This was a mixed methods study comprised of two elements; an online questionnaire which gathered 61 responses from the public, and semi-structured interviews with seven representatives from related emergency management disciplines.

This study found that although majority of people have a high hazard awareness, preparedness levels for the next Alpine Fault earthquake could be improved. . Currently, there is room for more investment into resilience building, and encouraging community empowerment, in order to better prepare its population.

More strategic risk communication strategies and an increasing amount of investment into community resilience building will be essential to developing local communities and empowering them to make effective decisions before, during, and after the next earthquake.

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Ambra Lorenzini (University of Udine and Trieste, IT): Evaluation of environmental contamination and skin exposure with Gallium Arsenide Nanoparticles in Laboratory of Research

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Ambra Lorenzini (University of Udine and Trieste, IT): Evaluation of environmental contamination and skin exposure with Gallium Arsenide Nanoparticles in Laboratory of Research

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The aim is to carry out an assessment of environmental contamination and skin exposure to Gallium Arsenide Nanoparticles in a research laboratory where the production of GaAs thin films is carried out using the MBE ( Molecular Beam Epitaxy ).

To evaluate surface contamination in the laboratory, 45 Ghost Wipes were used; for skin exposure 10 Tape Strips were made on the Worker's right wrist. Finally, for biological monitoring, urine samples were collected from the exposed worker, at the beginning and at the end of the work shift, for the search for Ga and As. In conclusion, this study has highlighted the presence of Gallium and Arsenic, both on surfaces, on the skin and in urine, for these reasons it is necessary to adopt an adequate protocol for cleaning surfaces and floors, correctly use DPCs and PPEs in order to reduce contamination.