The EU model evaluation group

The model evaluation group (MEG) was launched in 1992 growing out of the Ma jor TechnologicaI Hazards Programme with EU/DG XII. The goal of MEG was to improve the culture in which models were developed, particularly by encoura ging voluntary model evaluation procedures based on a formalised and consen sus protocol. The evaluation intended to assess the fitness-for-purpose of the models being used as a measure of the quality. The approach adopted was focused on developing a generic model evaluation protocol and subsequent t argeting this onto specific areas of application. Five such developments ha ve been initiated, on heavy gas dispersion, liquid pool fires, gas explosio ns, human factors and momentum fins. The quality of models is an important element when complying with the 'Seveso Directive' requiring that the safet y reports submitted to the authorities comprise an assessment of the extent and severity of the consequences of identified major accidents. Further, t he quality of models become important in the land use planning process, whe re the proximity of industrial sites to vulnerable areas may be critical. ( C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.