Risk Contours combine the consequences of a unique release with the probability that it will occur. A release can be modeled in one direction, but it has a certain probability of occurring in many directions. Contour maps demonstrate the probability of a specific impact in all directions.
Contour Maps take into account all possible releases from all analyzed processes from every section of a facility or plant and presents the risk in a two-dimensional format. Risk Contours can be developed for the public or worker population, or the equipment or environment. Risk Contours are a vital output from a QRA and are critical when assessing risk.
These maps are helpful in fulfilling governmental regulation in many parts of the world, as well as showing quantitative evidence of the risk a facility poses to it's own workers, neighboring facilities, and the general public.