The role of atmospheric dispersion modelling systems and expertise in crisis situations a methodology to assess their support to crisis command center

Abstract : This paper focuses on the support of Atmospheric Dispersion and Impact Assessment Modelling (ADIAM) in radiological or chemical emergency situations. After introducing the question of ADIAM results and expertise use during crisis situations, the paper presents a methodology developed to characterize their support to stakeholders in charge of population protection. Data are collected through the observation of radiological and chemical crisis exercises at a command centre level and coded through four main categories: information percolation, use of tools, communication style and communication content. We highlight how this methodology allows analysing coordination patterns between ADIAM advisors and stakeholders in a crisis command centre and the contribution of ADIAM to situation assessment and management