1. What is hazards? 2. Types of Hazards 3. Hazards classification table
Hazard: Definition and Types of Hazards
When we study disaster management, one of the first words we learn is hazard. Understanding hazards is important because they are the starting point for many disasters.
What is a Hazard?
A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm to people, property, the environment, or the economy. A hazard itself is not yet a disaster — it becomes a disaster when it actually causes serious damage and disrupts normal life.
Example:
Types of Hazards
Hazards are usually grouped into two main categories: Natural Hazards and Human-made (or Anthropogenic) Hazards.
1. Natural Hazards
These are hazards caused by natural processes of the Earth. They are not directly created by human activity.
Examples include:
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Geological Hazards – earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides.
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Hydrometeorological Hazards – floods, cyclones, droughts, heavy storms.
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Biological Hazards – epidemics, pest infestations, animal attacks.
Example: A strong earthquake in Japan is a natural hazard because it is caused by tectonic plate movement.
2. Human-made (Anthropogenic) Hazards
These hazards are caused by human actions or negligence. They may happen suddenly or develop over time.
Examples include:
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Technological Hazards – industrial explosions, chemical spills, nuclear accidents.
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Environmental Degradation – deforestation, air pollution, water contamination.
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Social Hazards – war, terrorism, civil unrest.
Example: The Chernobyl nuclear accident in 1986 was a human-made hazard caused by a reactor explosion.
Hazard Classification Table
| Category | Sub-category | Examples | Notes for Disaster Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Hazards | Geological Hazards | Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides | Caused by Earth’s internal processes |
| Hydrometeorological Hazards | Floods, cyclones, droughts, heavy storms | Related to weather and climate | |
| Biological Hazards | Epidemics, pest infestations, animal attacks | Caused by living organisms | |
| Human-made Hazards | Technological Hazards | Industrial explosions, chemical spills, nuclear accidents | Often result from accidents or failures in technology |
| Environmental Degradation | Deforestation, air pollution, water contamination | Usually develops over time due to human activity | |
| Social Hazards | War, terrorism, civil unrest | Caused by human conflict or violence |
Why Understanding Hazards Matters in Disaster Management
In disaster management science, hazard identification is the first step in risk assessment. By knowing what hazards exist in a location, we can:
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Prepare emergency plans.
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Build safe infrastructure.
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Educate communities on safety measures.
Example: If a town is near a river that floods every rainy season, early warning systems and flood-resistant housing can help reduce damage.
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Published On: August 10, 2025
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