System-theoretic analysis for the identification of emerging risks in the storage of dangerous substances

The energy transition process lets novel risks emerge, impacting safety of modern industrial settings. The introduction of automation and digitalization fosters the collaboration and the interconnection between system agents (both humans and technologies) to comply with new sustainability objectives. Cyber-physical systems are increasingly present in industries, stressing the need to consider safety and security jointly. Systemic approaches, such as System-Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA), have been shown to be effective tools for dealing with such problems. This paper employs STPA to identify and analyse emergent risks within an energy transition scenario. Performing STPA permitted to identify control flaws and unsafe interactions when integrating renewable energy technologies. Results highlight critical agents and actions that may lead accidents. Specifically, a case study related to the storage of dangerous substances is presented in this paper, showing how tank's automated controls may be susceptible to disruptions.