This paper analyses the feasibility of applying different update rates of industrial prices to the economic assessments of accidents with special emphasis on those related to the chemical process industry. The advantages and disadvantages of applying this technique to the historical analysis of accidents are analysed and compared with the results obtained with the five most widely used indexes. The results of a general analysis of the historical evolution of the cost of accidents recorded in two prestigious databases are also presented. Valid data are obtained for decision-making with regard to insurance premiums, revaluation of assets and risk management (administration, safety management of large chemical complexes).