Space limitations were important for the Dutch discussion of risk in safety science.

The concept of risk was introduced into the process industry Dutch safety domain in the 1970s and 1980s.

Risk models documented in the so-called coloured books also contributed to the Seveso Directive.

Models for quantitative risk analysis were widely applied and accepted after 1990.

The proper use of risk perception and risk in the political decision process are still being debated.