Proposal of integrated software system for simulation and GIS visualization of accidents caused by emission of hazardous gases

This paper presents the proposal of integrated software system for simulation and GIS visualization (Geographic Information System) of accidents caused by emission of hazardous gases from industry plants or storage facilities. Two software solutions for modeling, simulation and visualization of the propagation of hazardous gases through the simple (XY) and complex (XYZ) terrain are proposed. Software solution named “XY plume” is based on the use of free and reliable ALOHA and SCREEN3 software’s for modeling and simulation of the dispersion of hazardous gases. Proposed solutions use Google Earth, Google Maps and Open-Street Maps Web GIS browsers for visualization and marking. When estimating the zones of air pollution, different types of sources broadcasting are taken into account as well as meteorological conditions at the site of the incident. Calculated danger zones are displayed on Web GIS browser and used in risk assessment and action planning, according to the adopted plans to react in crisis situations. As a mechanism for connecting the dispersion models and Web GIS browsers, Keyhole Markup Language (KML) protocol is used because it can be activated via any Internet browser. In this way, the simulation results can be used over any computer that has an internet connection as well as through smartphones, tablets, and other devices that have mass application.