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Infrastructure and database

IT infrastructure and a PRTR database are needed to compile and store PRTR data. Key considerations for the design of IT infrastructure and databases to store PRTR data include:

  • The data that will be stored in the database, such as:
    • Each data element reported by point-source facilities;
    • Data on diffuse sources, if covered by the PRTR;
    • Derived data (e.g. total releases = sum of air, water, and land releases); and
    • Metadata (e.g. date submitted, reporting format, date revised etc.);
  • The size of the database needed to house the data;
  • The structure of the database to organize the data;
  • The frequency of data refreshes or updates;
  • Procedures for exporting data from the database (e.g. exporting raw data; exporting data for routine analysis (e.g. data structured for analysis in periodic data quality reviews); data feeds for updating data dissemination tools);
  • Procedures for database management (e.g. version control, back-up, etc.);
  • Techniques for safeguarding sensitive information;
  • Where the database will be hosted;
  • Hardware, software, and equipment requirements; and
  • Available resources for database development and maintenance.

For a cost-effective management scheme, you may wish to implement the next element (Data Quality Assurance) or choose another element from the Management scheme elements list.


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You have changed the resources available. The content, tools and more information pages suggested may have changed in order to make up the most cost effective management scheme.
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