ÖRUGG Consulting Engineering has been conducting regular risk assessments for the geological activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula on behalf of Civil Protection. Extensive experience in risk assessment, risk management, and emergency response is a crucial factor in why ÖRUGG is entrusted with this important task. Böðvar Tómasson, a PhD. Candidate in Risk Management and Community Safety, is project manager, bringing extensive experiencein risk assessment. Numerous experts at ÖRUGG have contributed to the project, particularly Birgir Þór Guðbrandsson and Kristín Rós Hlynsdóttir, as well as Elvar Ingi Jóhannesson and Sturla Elvarsson, who have worked on creating safety maps, among other tasks.

Various hazards threaten Grindavík and Svartsengi, concerning both public and responder safety and critical infrastructure. Therefore, it is essential to manage the necessary protections and their limitations when assessing where, how, or when it is safe to stay in the area and conduct activities. Due to the constantly changing conditions, regular risk assessments have been carried out, taking into account the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s hazard assessments, as well as the possible protections and responses to the hazards.

Multiple entities are involved in responses and protections in Grindavík, such as the Grindavík Fire Department, the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (Landsbjörg), and various entities within the municipality of Grindavík. The Reykjanes Peninsula Police Department play a key role in safety controls, with significant support from Civil Protection. Additionally, numerous institutions and entities related to the region’s critical infrastructure and defences, such as HS Orka, HS Utilities, the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, telecommunications companies, and engineering firms like Efla and Verkís, are involved.

Complex and hazardous conditions have developed in the area, making it essential to have interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure staff safety amidst the ever-changing threats. ÖRUGG has created asafety plan for companies operating in Grindavík to support them with occupational safety in a dynamic environment. Additionally, ÖRUGG has updated the evacuation plan for Grindavík, considering the hazards and regularly updating it. This plan includes information on evacuation routes from the town and various safety requirements.