The main objective of this work is to offer tools for a new governance of industrial risks and relevant peri-industrial areas. To achieve this objective, a reflection tool is being presented to the local decision-makers. The tool is based on a peri-industrial area vulnerability study. There is 3 dimensions to the vulnerability: the first two are linked to the accident and its potential consequences, the third is linked to the sustainability of the specific area and to the consequences that the implementation of measures to alleviate the first two dimensions could entail. To ensure its effectiveness, this tool has been trialled on a peri-industrial area near Saint-Etienne. We are presenting the use of the vulnerability assessment in the context of a 'call for comments' as it is presented in the 30th of July 2003 Act. This voluntary approach should generate a rising interest from all strong, weak or absent stakeholders. And assist the local decision-maker to take actions with consideration to the sustainability of the area he is responsible for.
