Human-caused hazards are the result of human intent, error, or as a result of failed systems. They can be caused by accidents in human built infrastructures or technologies, or intentional human actions that cause destruction or loss of life. Human caused hazards can cause moderate to severe damage to individuals, communities, economies, supply chains and the environment.
In addition, natural disasters may trigger secondary human caused disasters, aggravating initial impacts. Industrial facilities, electric power, water and other technological installations and transport systems are all vulnerable to natural hazards, and their design is not always adequate to withstand current or future impacts. One example of this is the impact to the Fukushima Daichi nuclear plant near Tokyo after the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami on 3/11/2011.
Explore each section below to learn about how to prepare for specific hazardous events.