ABSTRACT
The paper discusses the main procedures for Emergency Preparedness Planning (EPP) in Greece. The Greek Dam Safety Regulation (DSR) came into force in October 2017, and a Dam Administrative Authority (DAA) was formed to manage its application. One of the main obligations of the dam operators is the preparation of an Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP). The DAA prepared an EPP Standard, to be followed by Dam Owners and Operators. After discussions with the dam community and the Civil Protection Agency, the Standard was finalized in 2021. All dams within the jurisdiction of the DSR must prepare an updated EPP, following the new Standard. The Standard introduced a hazard potential class analysis, altering the categorization of many dams which was initially based on dam visible height and reservoir capacity. Regional Authorities and Private Companies who act as Dam Operators must comply to the standard’s procedures and define responsibilities, resources and equipment for preventive and emergency actions. In some cases, Dam Operators adapting to this more demanding Regulatory framework, must proceed to significant organizational changes. The EPP provides extended information and data to the Civil Protection Agencies involved, to assist them identify downstream risks and conduct evacuation plans. The Dam Owner, the dam Operator and the Civil Protection Agencies need to collaborate and establish a solid and effective communication pathway. The initial experience of the Standard’s application is briefly discussed, and some challenges faced by Dam Owners and Operators during the EPP implementation are presented.
