Targeted assets risk analysis

Area of Science:

• Security Science
• Risk Management
• Emergency Management

Background:

• Current risk assessments use five threat categories: natural, human accidental, technological, human intentional, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE).
• Human intentional and CBRNE threats target specific infrastructure, necessitating identification of vulnerable assets.
• Effective resource allocation requires understanding potential targets of malicious intent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Targeted Assets Risk Analysis (TARA) framework for improved risk measurement, monitoring, management, and minimization.
• To enhance the identification of critical infrastructure likely to be targeted by individuals with malicious intent.
• To support Defence Research and Development Canada's research into comprehensive risk assessment and management.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the consolidated risk assessment process and target capabilities list.
• Applying the CARVER methodology and security vulnerability analysis.
• Developing the Targeted Assets Risk Analysis (TARA) framework.

Main Results:

• The TARA framework enables the identification of targeted assets and their specific weaknesses.
• It provides a method to measure and quantify potential human intentional threats.
• This process aids emergency managers in strategic resource and funding allocation.

Conclusions:

• TARA offers a novel approach to risk assessment and management across all four phases of emergency management (prevention, preparation, response, recovery).
• Implementing TARA can significantly improve safety for Canadians by proactively addressing human intentional threats.
• The framework supports a comprehensive strategy for reducing risk to critical infrastructure throughout Canada.