Definition of Hazard
Definition of Hazard
A hazard is any source of potential harm, danger, or adverse impact on people, property, or
the environment. Hazards can be natural (like earthquakes or floods) or man-made (like
industrial accidents or chemical spills).
Main Causes of Industrial Hazards
1. Chemical Hazards: 1.Exposure to toxic or flammable chemicals.2.Leaks or spills of
hazardous materials.3.Inadequate storage or disposal of chemicals.
2. Mechanical Hazards:1.Accidents caused by unguarded machinery.2.Malfunctioning or
poorly maintained equipment.3.Moving parts that can entangle, crush, or cut.
3. Electrical Hazards:1.Short circuits or electrical overloads.2.Improper grounding of
equipment.3.Exposed or damaged wiring.
4. Fire and Explosion Risks:1.Improper handling of flammable materials.2.Accumulation
of combustible dust.3.Faulty electrical systems or overheating machinery.
5. Environmental Factors:1.Noise pollution causing hearing damage.2.Dust, fibers, and
poor ventilation leading to respiratory issues.3.High temperatures or humidity in the work
environment.
6. Human Error:1.Lack of safety training or awareness.2.Non-compliance with safety
protocols.3.Fatigue or negligence during work.
##Cyclones are powerful storms that cause widespread destruction. They result in loss of
life, damage to infrastructure, and displacement of people due to strong winds, heavy
rainfall, and storm surges. Flooding and coastal erosion are common, destroying homes,
crops, and vegetation. Cyclones disrupt livelihoods, particularly in agriculture and fishing,
and lead to significant economic losses. Public health is affected by waterborne diseases
and inadequate sanitation in affected areas. Long-term impacts include homelessness, loss
of livelihoods, and increased vulnerability to future disasters. Examples include Cyclone
Amphan (2020) and Cyclone Fani (2019), which caused extensive damage in India and
neighboring regions.
## A flood is an overflow of water onto normally dry land, typically caused by heavy
rainfall, melting snow, or the failure of dams or levees. Flooding can occur in rivers, lakes,
coastal areas, and urban environments.
Causes of Floods:
Heavy Rainfall: Excessive rain that surpasses the land's ability to absorb water.:
Dam or Levee Failure: Structural breakdowns can cause large amounts of water to flood
nearby areas.
Snowmelt: Rapid melting of snow and ice in spring increases water flow into rivers.
Coastal Storm Surges: Hurricanes or cyclones push seawater onto coastal regions.
Urbanization: Poor drainage systems and increased impervious surfaces (like concrete)
cause water to accumulate.
##Response: The immediate actions taken after a disaster to save lives, provide relief, and
stabilize the situation. This includes search and rescue operations, medical aid, and setting
up temporary shelters.: ##Recovery: The longer-term process of restoring affected areas
to normalcy. It involves rebuilding infrastructure, restoring services (like water, electricity),
and supporting the affected population's return to their livelihoods. Recovery can take
months or years, depending on the disaster's scale.