Challenges in Technical Risk Management for High-Power Accelerators

Abstract

The increasing demands on accelerator-based research facilities to be both reliable and cost-efficient require comprehensive risk management that takes the full scope of the facility into account. Due to the organizational and technical complexity of these facilities, a systematic risk management method is beneficial, if not necessary. However, many other aspects, aside from reliability and cost-efficiency, also call for great attention. This paper discusses the many challenges that are faced when dealing with technical risk management of accelerator facilities, as these efforts are often considered second to e.g. beam parameters and operational schedule. The paper uses the design and construction of the European Spallation Source in Sweden as a basis, but many of the contradictory aspects have been found in other similar facilities around the world. Some of the challenges for technical risk management that are discussed relate to rapid organizational expansion, pressing schedule, knowledge biases, and conflicts of interest.