CHAPTER 3

Basic Concept of Hazard

In the previous chapters, the term hazard has been mentioned casually
alongside exposure and vulnerability, the other components of the risk
equation. In preparation for the next unit which deals mainly with the detailed
aspects of natural hazards, students should be able to do the following at the
end of this chapter:
1. Describe how hazard affects risk;
2. Distinguish hazard from the other components of disaster risk;
3. Distinguish natural hazards from the other types of hazards;
4. Explain the difference in characteristics of small and large hazard events; and
5. Determine the steps in hazard assessment.
SECTION 3.1 HAZARDS AND HAZARD
TYPES
Section Objectives:
1. Recognize specific situations when natural phenomena, hazards,
and disaster occur.
2. Explain how natural phenomena are transformed into hazards and
disasters.
3. Distinguish the various types of hazard.
What is a Hazard?
Hazards are the potential for damage to man and his environment that
may result from the occurrence of natural events such as volcanic
eruptions, earthquakes, floods, and storm surges.

Types of Hazard