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The following posts are in no particular order. They are purposely randomized.

Understanding methods

Use of uncertainty factors

RSI applies uncertainty factors using internationally accepted guidance while adapting to context-specific needs. Its experts justify factor choices based on data quality and assessment objectives. RSI communicates the implications of these choices clearly, helping clients and regulators understand the conservatism built into derived values and models.
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Case Studies

Update of WHO Guidance on Food Defense

To support international efforts in mitigating deliberate threats to the food system, the World Health Organization commissioned an update to its earlier guidance titled Terrorist Threats to Food. The revision aimed to broaden the original scope by addressing not only intentional acts, such as food terrorism, but also a wider array of systemic risks—ranging from pandemics to geopolitical disruptions—that could compromise global food safety.
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Understanding methods

Survey response analysis

RSI performs rigorous analysis of survey data using appropriate statistical techniques and contextual interpretation. Whether analyzing perception, behavior, or system feedback, RSI integrates findings into broader assessments. Its ability to connect survey results to policy and modeling frameworks enhances the value of survey-based research in understanding risk.
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Methods

Preparedness planning

RSI supports preparedness planning by conducting risk assessments, designing exercises, and integrating cross-sector inputs. Its planners work across jurisdictions and sectors to ensure that plans are relevant, operational, and supported. RSI’s focus on evidence-based scenarios and actionable protocols strengthens readiness and resilience.
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Understanding methods

Scenario development

RSI uses scenario development in strategic foresight, emergency planning, and risk prioritization projects. It co-develops scenarios with stakeholders or technical experts and tests their implications using simulation or facilitated discussion. RSI’s scenarios are decision-focused and designed to stimulate insight, dialogue, and preparedness in uncertain or rapidly changing contexts.
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Methods

Cross-sector coordination

RSI supports cross-sector risk coordination by designing joint protocols, shared data systems, and collaborative decision processes. The firm facilitates alignment workshops and documents responsibilities to avoid redundancy and conflict. RSI’s ability to bridge disciplinary and organizational divides enables effective joint action in high-stakes contexts.
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Sectors of expertise

COVID

Country foods — the traditional foods harvested, hunted, or fished by Indigenous and rural communities — are central to cultural identity, nutrition, and food security. They provide essential nutrients, support community resilience, and reinforce connections to land and heritage. However, these foods can also present risks due to environmental contamination, overharvesting pressures, or changing ecosystems…
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Understanding methods

Toxicological reference value derivation

RSI conducts reference value derivation as part of its toxicological and regulatory work. The firm applies established methodologies, transparently selects uncertainty factors, and prepares documentation suitable for regulatory review. RSI ensures that derived values reflect current science and are communicated clearly to support risk-based decision-making.
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RSI News

RSI receives National Defence funding

RSI is pleased to be the recipient of funding through the DND IDEaS COVID-19 Challenge. Under the supervision of Emma Hartnett, RSI will be developing a risk-based tool to support public health emergency response planning for COVID-19, and other infectious disease and mass casualty emergencies in the future. The safety and well-being of Canadians are…
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Understanding methods

Catastrophic event modeling

RSI applies catastrophic event modeling in the context of risk foresight, emergency planning, and public policy design. Its teams use stochastic models, Monte Carlo simulations, and expert elicitation to project event scenarios and assess resilience gaps. RSI ensures that outputs are policy-relevant and accompanied by realistic sensitivity and uncertainty analyses. These efforts support clients in preparing for events where the stakes are high but the probabilities are elusive.
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