Determinants of risk perceptions of a hazardous waste site

Journal Article · Tue Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1992 · Risk Analysis

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1539-6924.1992.tb00693.x· OSTI ID:62903

Bord, R J; O`Conner, R E ^[1]

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1. Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States)

A before-stimulus-after quasi-experimental design is used to assess the factors relating to risk perceptions of a hazardous waste site. First, a pretest obtains measures of attitudes and beliefs about hazardous waste and waste sites. Second, a detailed hypothetical {open_quotes}Superfund{close_quotes} scenario, including a complex cleanup plan, is introduced. Finally, indices of health risk estimates, trust, knowledge, and other pertinent beliefs are obtained. levels of concern, both before and after cleanup, are the dependent variables. Independent variables include risk management options, health risk estimates, trust, and five sociodemographic characteristics. Concern is extremely high prior to cleanup and moderately high after cleanup. Concern is a clear function of health risk estimates. Toxic chemicals from waste sites are viewed as a major cause of multiple health problems, especially cancers. Accurate health risk estimates moderate fears and are linked to levels of education. Education, however, does not explain concern. Trust is a major factor explaining concern and health risk estimates. The implications of these findings for risk communication is discussed. 13 refs., 4 tabs.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 62903
• Journal Information: Risk Analysis, Journal Name: Risk Analysis Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 12; ISSN 0272-4332; ISSN RIANDF
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

05 NUCLEAR FUELS
29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
PUBLIC ANXIETY
PUBLIC INFORMATION
PUBLIC OPINION
RADIOACTIVE WASTE STORAGE
RISK ASSESSMENT